What’s Happening?
Townsville’s Civic Theatre forecourt will transform into a vibrant cultural hub when the AFCM Festival Garden returns from Friday 25 July to Friday 1 August 2025, offering a week of free live music, talks, dance, children’s shows, literary events, and school showcases.
This alfresco series is part of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music (25 July – 2 August), one of the world’s most esteemed chamber music events. The Festival Garden delivers relaxed outdoor experiences daily, including food trucks, a licensed bar, shaded seating, and memory-making moments.
“We’re creating a space for people to gather, connect and experience the power of music in the open air,” said Artistic Director Jack Liebeck, who will also lead the free children’s concert.
Why It Matters
The Festival Garden celebrates accessibility and inclusion in the arts by offering free performances, nurturing young musicians, and connecting locals to world-class talent in a casual setting.
It’s part of a broader mission to “foster creativity, conversation, and community through the universal language of music,” according to festival organisers.
Local Impact
Townsville locals and schools will take centre stage alongside international artists:
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The Schools Showcase (28 July–1 August) highlights ensembles from Kirwan State High, Townsville Grammar, Pimlico State High, and others.
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The Wulgurukaba Walkabouts will share First Nations culture in a standout performance on Saturday 26 July.
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AFCM’s presence boosts local tourism, supporting Townsville’s reputation as a liveable, culturally rich destination.
By the Numbers
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36 artists will perform in 2025, including 11 international musicians and two Australian debuts.
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13 performers will make their AFCM debut, with three ensembles participating.
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The Festival Garden offers free events every day from 25 July to 1 August, including 7 school performances, 2 literary talks, and multiple masterclass showcases.
Zoom In
Festival Highlights to Catch:
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Opening Night Reception (25 July, 6–7pm) featuring the 1st Royal Australian Regiment Band and Pimlico State High Choir.
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Children’s Concert (26 July, 2–3pm) with Jack Liebeck bringing The SpongeBob Musical and Ferdinand the Bull to life.
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Literary Talk with Gillian Wills on Big Music (26 July, 2–2:45pm) at Civic Theatre C2.
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Cultural fusion with Wulgurukaba Walkabouts and Andromeda Sax Quartet (26 July, 6–7pm).
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Pathways Masterclass Showcases throughout the week—strings, brass, wind, violin, piano.
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Colin Roderick Memorial Lecture (31 July, 6–7pm) by novelist Emily Maguire, exploring creativity and curiosity.
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Festival Farewell (1 August, 6–7pm) with 1RAR Band and cocktails to cap off the celebration.
Zoom Out
This event is part of the broader AFCM 2025 program (25 July – 2 August), bringing together celebrated and emerging chamber musicians from around the world. It enhances Townsville’s standing on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar and reflects the strength of Queensland’s cultural tourism.
What to Look For Next?
Explore the ticketed performances running alongside the free garden program at www.afcm.com.au.
