Pyrotechnic drones will be used for the first time at this year’s Riverfire in Brisbane next month.
Brisbane Festival Artistic Director Louise Bezzina said the September 6 event, which kicks off the three-week Brisbane Festival, will provide a Queensland-first, when the heavy payload pyrotechnic drones were deployed as part of the display. (Download the viewing map below).
Ms Bezzina said three pyro drones, specially made and authorised to carry pyrotechnics, would launch nearly 600 effects and combine to create various thrilling formations.
She said this marked a defining moment in Australian fireworks history and set Riverfire apart as one of the most innovative displays in the world.
“Riverfire is more than a fireworks show – it’s a celebration of our city, our creativity, and the power of shared experience.
“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.”
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Riverfire was one of the biggest nights on Brisbane’s event calendar.
“(It) attracts people from across the region and beyond to enjoy our city at its best,” Lord Mayor Schrinner said.
“From packed riverfront venues to busy hotels and buzzing restaurants, Riverfire delivers a welcome surge in visitation and supports thousands of local jobs.”
Ms Bezzina said ahead of the main event, Brisbane’s skies would roar to life with aerial displays from Australian Defence Force aircrafts including C-17 Globemasters, F/A-18s and helicopters.
“The pre-show spectacle will also feature a moving performance by First Nations artists, Tribal Experiences, incorporating traditional dance and song.”
She said the fireworks display would be synchronised to a dynamic soundtrack curated by composer and sound designer Guy Webster, broadcast live on Triple M.
Download: Riverfire 2025 Viewing Map
Riverfire fact facts
- A highlight on Queensland’s cultural calendar since 1998.
- Centrepiece of Brisbane Festival since 2009.
- One of the largest public events in the country, drawing more than 500,000 people each year.
- Riverfire 2025 is on Saturday, September 6, from 4-8pm.
- The fireworks and ADF display will take place across the Brisbane River.
- Over 1500 hours go into preparing the fireworks display.
- There are 17 firing locations, with more fireworks than ever before, including:
- Five barges.
- Seven city rooftops.
- Three pyrotechnic drones.
- Two bridges
Visit the Brisbane Festival website for event details for the entire festival which runs from September 5 to 27.
