For many Aussies, a trip to K’gari (formerly Fraser Island) is the ultimate bucket list adventure. Now, the allure of the world’s largest sand island has become even stronger, with the introduction of Illumina, an all-new light and laser show debuting later this year. Brought to life by the mastermind behind Uluru’s famous drone show, Bruce Ramus, Illumina will tell the story of the World Heritage-listed island through a symphony of glittering lights, colourful projections and laser beams.
This mesmerising new installation is set to light up the skies of K’gari from September 30, 2024, becoming Queensland’s first-ever permanent interpretive light show. Illumina’s debut exhibition, Return to Sky will unfold in three acts, portraying K’gari’s incredible journey of regeneration and growth. Set amidst the natural beauty of the Kingfisher Bay Resort’s wallum wetlands, Illumina will be an exclusive experience for resort guests, with two 20-minute shows each night.
Creating Return to Sky was a full-circle experience for Melbourne-based international light artist, Bruce Ramus, who has designed light spectacles for international concerts by artists, like David Bowie, R.E.M. and U2. Down Under, he’s best known as the visionary behind Uluru’s famous Wintjiri Wiru drone show.
In reflecting on his journey, Ramus said: “Back in 1987, when I first visited the island as a young Canadian backpacker, on a journey of self-discovery, the island helped me feel an inner spaciousness that changed my life. Through its stillness and its profound uncompromising beauty, the island showed me that my presence is my power, so to have the honour, through this show, to express that on behalf of the island feels cyclical and connected to me.”
Ramus drew inspiration from the constantly shifting sands, ripples on the lake and the swaying trees, letting them carry the light and story throughout the show.
He added: “This first show, called Return to Sky, is only the beginning. From here, more stories can be shared, deeper relationships can be developed, and the light of K’gari can welcome and transform many more visitors for years to come.”
So, if you’re looking to bust out of the big smoke and dive into a mesmerising experience on one of Australia’s most beautiful islands, look no further. This new light show could just be it.
Illumina will officially launch in September 2024 and will exclusively be available to guests staying at Kingfisher Bay Resort. You can find out more here.
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