Council recognised as finalists in Queensland Reconciliation Awards

Published on 29 May 2026

Flinders Shire Council is proud to celebrate its recognition as a finalist in the Partnership Category at the 2026 Queensland Reconciliation Awards for the Festival of Outback Skies – Moonda Nurra Rainbow Serpent Production.

The awards, held this week in Brisbane, acknowledge initiatives across the state that foster meaningful relationships and shared pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle said being named a finalist amongst such a high calibre of entries was a significant honour for the region and a testament to the Shire’s commitment to walking together with the Yirendali people.

"I am incredibly proud that Flinders Shire Council, in partnership with Yirendali Cultural Services, was named a finalist for this prestigious award," Mayor Peddle said.

"The Moonda Nurra Production was a truly special event which now holds a permanent place in our Festival programming.

“It brought together light, storytelling, and culture to share the creation story of our landscape, celebrating Yirendali culture and the continuing contribution of First Nations peoples in our community.

“This recognition reflects what we can achieve together by building understanding, respect, and connection."

The finalist entry centred on the 2025 production of the Moonda Nurra Rainbow Serpent, which served as the heartbeat of the Festival of Outback Skies.

Set against the natural backdrop of Hughenden’s Recreational Lake, the production featured a stunning display of hand-crafted lanterns across the land and water to bring the Yirendali creation story to life.

This project was a months-long engagement process that saw Yirendali Elders guiding the narrative to ensure cultural authenticity and integrity.

Renowned Indigenous artists including Lydia Miller, David Hudson, and Glen Thomas collaborated with local talent, while local schools participated in workshops to create the lanterns, ensuring the next generation played an active role in the storytelling.

“This recognition highlights Hughenden as a leader in rural community engagement and cultural tourism,” added Mayor Peddle.

The Moonda Nurra production has become a foundational element of the region’s cultural identity, ensuring that the ancient stories of the Yirendali people remain a vibrant, living part of the Flinders Shire experience.