Brisbane’s most beloved night of the year is set to return bigger, bolder, and brighter than ever on Saturday 6 September, as Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust lights up the city skyline to officially launch Brisbane Festival 2025.
In a history-making first for Queensland, this year’s Riverfire display will incorporate heavy payload pyrotechnic drones, delivering an unforgettable visual spectacle never before seen at the event. These three specially engineered drones, authorised to carry and launch pyrotechnics, will unleash nearly 600 effects in the sky, creating choreographed, high-impact formations that promise to dazzle.
This cutting-edge addition marks a revolutionary moment in Australian fireworks history, cementing Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust as one of the most innovative pyrotechnic displays in the world.
“Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust is more than a fireworks show – it’s a celebration of our city, our creativity, and the power of shared experience,” said Brisbane Festival Artistic Director Louise Bezzina.
“It’s the perfect way to kick off the festival and welcome everyone to be part of the magic as the skyline is painted with a kaleidoscopic display of colour and light.”
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner praised the annual event’s impact on the city:
“Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust is one of the biggest nights on Brisbane’s event calendar, attracting people from across the region and beyond to enjoy our city at its best. From packed riverfront venues to busy hotels and buzzing restaurants, Riverfire delivers a welcome surge in visitation and supports thousands of local jobs. We’re proud to support this showstopping display that puts Brisbane on the national stage and reinforces our reputation as Australia’s lifestyle capital.”
Before the fireworks burst into life, the skies will thunder with dramatic aerial displays from the Australian Defence Force, including C-17 Globemasters, F/A-18s, helicopters, and more — setting the stage for a night of thrills. The pre-show will also feature a stirring performance by First Nations troupe Tribal Experiences, incorporating traditional dance and song in a moving welcome to country.
This year’s dazzling fireworks display will be perfectly synced to a specially curated soundtrack by acclaimed composer and sound designer Guy Webster, broadcast live on Triple M. Inspired by the vibrant energy of Craig & Karl’s ‘Walk This Way’, commissioned by ANZ, the music promises to be bold, joyful, and distinctly Brisbane.
Produced by Foti Fireworks, the spectacle will fire from 17 locations across the city, including five barges, seven rooftops, two bridges, and the newly introduced pyro drones — with over 1,500 hours of preparation behind the scenes.
Since its debut in 1998 and integration into Brisbane Festival in 2009, Riverfire has grown into one of Australia’s largest public events, drawing more than 500,000 people annually to riverbanks, rooftops, parks, and bridges to witness the spectacle.
Simonne Burnett, Chief Member Experience Officer at Australian Retirement Trust, shared the fund’s long-standing commitment:
“We’ve proudly supported Riverfire for over 15 years. One in two working Queenslanders is a member of our fund, so this event is a powerful way to celebrate the spirit of this city and state together.”
And it wouldn’t be Riverfire without a tip from the event’s official mascot and #1 superfan, Artie, who’s revealed the top vantage points across Brisbane. One of the hottest tickets in town will be The Landing at Queen’s Wharf, offering stunning riverfront views, reserved seating, and bar access. Tickets are strictly limited and available via the Brisbane Festival website.
Event Info:
???? Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust: Saturday 6 September, 4–8PM
???? Fireworks & ADF aerial displays: Across the Brisbane River
???? Broadcast: Fireworks soundtrack on Triple M and live TV coverage on Channel Nine
???? Firing locations: 17 in total – 5 barges, 7 rooftops, 2 bridges, and 3 pyro drones
???? Free, non-ticketed event (with limited paid seating at select locations)
Riverfire signals the start of Brisbane Festival 2025, running from 5–27 September, featuring world premieres, unforgettable performances, and free public events throughout the city.
???? View vantage points and access information: brisbanefestival.com.au/events/riverfire
???? Full festival program now live at: brisbanefestival.com.au
