Community & Business
5 May, 2026
QMA win for Djawarray
KURANDA musician Djawarray has come away with an incredible win at the Queensland Music Awards after being named Regional Artist of the Year.
Held on the Gold Coast recently, the QMAs are the state’s largest music awards which recognise and celebrate the creativity and achievements of Queensland artists in the music industry.
This year Kuranda artist Djawarray, or Bertie Riley, was recognised as the Regional Artist of the Year for his song Wulman Wulman.
“This is for all the people of Kuranda, especially my family. Most of all, this is for the next generation. I hope our young people can see what is possible if you put your mind to it,” he said following the win.
The Djabugay and Western Yalanji songman also acknowledged his bandmates, thanking the members of Koahlition Reggae Band for their “continuing efforts, determination, and support”.
The award comes as Djawarray prepares to take centre stage as a headliner for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair’s (CIAF) opening night at the Tanks Arts Centre on 9 July, where he will deliver a full-scale production featuring the Mayi Wunba Dancers.
A respected Elder, mentor and cultural knowledge-holder across the Kuranda and broader Far North Queensland communities, Djawarray’s influence extends well beyond music, with deep connections across Cairns, Townsville and Palm Island.
“I’m really proud to be opening CIAF. It’s a powerful space where culture, art, and community come together,” he said.
“To be on stage sharing my music and story, alongside Mayi Wunba, means a lot.”
