Rockhampton's vibrant creative heart will open its doors this July as the Walter Reid Cultural Centre (WRCC) hosts its much-anticipated annual Open Day on Saturday 25 July, from 10am to 3pm, offering free entry to the public.
Located at the corner of East and Derby Streets, the WRCC has been a cornerstone of the region's cultural life since 1977. Once home to Walter Reid and Company Ltd, the historic building now houses more than a dozen local arts organisations spanning performing arts, visual arts, craft, design, film and music, making it one of Central Queensland's most dynamic creative hubs.
Communities, Culture and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said the July Open Day invites the community to step inside and experience the breadth of artistic practice that thrives within its walls.
"The Walter Reid Cultural Centre is a foundation of Rockhampton's creative identity, bringing together an incredible mix of artists, performers and community groups under one roof. The Open Day is a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors alike to step inside, meet the people behind the work, and experience the energy that makes this space so special," Councillor Wickerson said.
"Council is proud to support the WRCC and the many organisations that call it home. We also encourage the community to explore the new Walter Reid webpage on Council's website, where you can now easily find information about each group, their opening hours and how to connect beyond the Open Day."
Ros McKendry from the WRCC Tenants Committee said the Open Day is about celebrating the essential role of the arts in our community.
"The Walter Reid Cultural Centre is the heart of that community and it's where art connects. We're inviting everyone to come along, show their support, and discover something new," she said.
A key focus for this year's event is encouraging younger generations to engage with local arts groups and consider becoming members. Many of the Centre's organisations represent decades of accumulated knowledge and practice.
"The skills and stories held within these groups are true legacies and our Open Day events are a chance for young people to connect with that experience and help carry it forward."
A full day of creative discovery
Across the Walter Reid, visitors will be able to explore an exciting and diverse program of open studios, exhibitions, demonstrations and performances including:
- CQ Contemporary Artists (CQCA) warmly welcome visitors to a drop-in style painting workshop for all ages in their 1st floor studio and view original art for sale. In addition, CQCA will host an artist's talk at 11am in Gallery 6, ground floor as part of their exhibition 'Beyond the Banks.' Come and hear the artists talk about their work.
- The Embroiderers Guild will welcome visitors into their studio to share current projects, with opportunities for guests to bring along their own work for discussion and advice.
- Capricornia Printmakers Inc studio will be open to visitors where they can watch members working on prints throughout the day, plus there will be a drop-in activity - Print a picture using pre-cut lino plates, suitable for children and adults.
- Fibre Arts Inc will showcase spinning, weaving and a range of fibre-based crafts in action. Their studio will host their usual "craft, cuppa and chat" where visitors can come and check out their fabulous library of books and equipment, exemplars from past workshops, and a list of upcoming workshops.
- Capricorn Potters Group will present wheel-throwing demonstrations in the ground floor foyer, alongside gallery displays, sales and workshop experiences on the second floor.
- Rockhampton Rail Modellers Association will have their intricate railway layouts in motion, with visitors invited to take control and run a model train themselves.
- Rockhampton Little Theatre will have performers roaming the Centre in character promoting their upcoming events.
- Rockhampton Lapidary Club will have an open studio with their regular junior session at 9am - 11.30am and adults 1.30pm - 4pm.
- Music lovers can enjoy a special ticketed performance in the auditorium, with CQ Strings and Unisong Choir from Rockhampton Youth Orchestra Inc. presenting "French Favorites". Tickets are available at the door: Adults $10 | Concession & Children (5-18) $8 | Family (2 adults + 2 children) $28.
Coinciding with the Open Day, CQ Contemporary Artists will present their annual exhibition "Beyond the Banks" in Gallery 6 on the ground floor. The exhibition opens 6pm Friday 24 July 2026, with the public warmly invited to attend, and will continue through to 2 August. As a special offer to early birds, there are a number of artworks for sale at a bargain price of $100 each. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to own an original artwork for $100!
CQ Contemporary Artists Coordinator Ainslie McMahon said 'Beyond the Banks' explores the shifting boundaries of landscape, memory and identity in Central Queensland.
"Presenting this exhibition alongside the Open Day allows us to connect with new audiences and showcase the depth of contemporary practice emerging from our region. It's a powerful reminder that creativity continues to evolve here, grounded in community but reaching far beyond it," she said.
A celebration of community
Owned and operated by Rockhampton Regional Council, the Walter Reid Cultural Centre remains a vital gathering place where creativity, collaboration and community thrive.
Whether you're an arts enthusiast, a curious first-time visitor, or a young person looking to get involved, the Walter Reid Open Day offers a welcoming entry point into the region's rich cultural life.
Come and experience the creativity, meet the makers, and discover why the Walter Reid Cultural Centre is truly where art connects.
Event details
Walter Reid Cultural Centre Open Day
Date: Saturday 25 July 2026
Time: 10am - 3pm
Location: Corner East & Derby Streets, Rockhampton
Free entry (Rockhampton Youth Orchestra tickets and some workshops priced separately)
