Overview
First Gathering is a celebration of the vibrant First Nations cultures of Brisbane and marks the official opening of Clancestry 2026. This event invites you to pay respects to the ancestors of this land, their spirits and their legacy in a celebration of dance, song and culture.
This year, Clancestry will open with community groups coming together on the Festival Grounds to celebrate our traditions and welcome our young ones to continue the legacy, handed down from our elders. Hosted by TV presenter and writer Tony Armstrong, join us as we gather and celebrate the rich history of this country.
First Gathering is part of Clancestry. .
About Tony Armstrong
Tony Armstrong, a proud Gamilaroi man from rural NSW, is one of Australia’s most engaging and recognisable media figures. After an AFL career with Adelaide, Collingwood and Sydney – including the opportunity to play alongside his childhood hero Adam Goodes – Tony transitioned into broadcasting, where his natural warmth and sharp wit quickly set him apart. In 2019, he broke new ground as the first Indigenous commentator to call live commercial AFL on radio, before becoming a regular on Marngrook Footy Show and The Colour of Your Jumper, and co-hosting Yokayi Footy across NITV and SBS.
Tony joined the ABC in 2020, appearing across ABC News and Grandstand AFL before becoming full-time sports presenter on News Breakfast in 2021, where he quickly became one of the network’s most trusted and popular faces. Beyond news and sport, he has hosted Always Was Tonight, Eat the Invaders and the acclaimed documentary series End Game, and is a Logie Award winner, Gold Logie nominee, podcast host, children’s author and highly sought-after MC. Known for his humour, authenticity and ease with any audience, Tony brings intelligence, heart and charisma to every stage and screen.
Extend Your Evening at First Gathering
Join us from 7pm on South Bank’s Culture Forecourt for a night of free live music under the stars at the Mob Music stage!
Mob Music
Don’t miss two nights of jam-packed free live music featuring the sounds of our deadly First Nations artists.
Gallery
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First Gathering from Clancestry 2025Image by Lewis James Media 
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First Gathering from Clancestry 2025Image by Lewis James Media 
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First Gathering from Clancestry 2025Image by Lewis James Media 
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First Gathering from Clancestry 2025Image by Lewis James Media 
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Mob MusicImage by Tai Bobongie Clancestry Mob Music
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Clancestry for KidsImage by Tai Bobongie Clancestry Clancestry for Kids
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