Community
30 October, 2025
Riverfest draws thousands celebrating natural beauty
PERFECT weather and a vibrant community atmosphere brought more than 10,000 people to the banks of the Johnstone River on Saturday for this year’s Innisfail Riverfest – a full day of colour, connection, and local pride.
The free family event highlighted the best of the Cassowary Coast, with crowds enjoying live entertainment, interactive displays, competitions on and off the water and a spectacular fireworks finale over the river.
On the water, competition was fierce as teams from Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, Coconuts Outriggers, and Innisfail Rowing Club went head-to-head in the regatta.
A dazzling aerobatic display by pilot Bob Harris in a Decathlon aircraft wowed the crowds, families packed the petting zoo by Carter’s farm, the interactive reptile display by RESTA educational services and the Innisfail game fishing club’s hugely popular simulator meant there was no shortage of excitement.
Food stalls and fundraisers added to the festival flavour, with a full entertainment schedule of local talent plus a touch of star power, with Riverfest ambassador Paul Burt from the television show Step Outside
Australian rock band Thirsty Merc took to the main stage and delivered a high-energy set that had the crowd singing and dancing along before Xplosive art’s spectacular fireworks display lit up the sky over the Johnstone River.
Eighteen-year-old Dakota Dunford took out the Riverfest Queen crown, earning praise for her commitment to inspiring others.
The Riverfest Queen quest is more than the title. It celebrates growth, connection and everything that makes the Cassowary Coast special.
Riverfest president Cameron Seamark said the event was a true celebration of Innisfail’s natural beauty.
“Riverfest is about bringing the community together to celebrate our beautiful rivers and the lifestyle they give us,” Mr Seamark said. “It is also a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and volunteers to give back and be part of something that makes Innisfail proud.”
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