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About Bulmba-ja

Bulmba-ja is a theatre, gallery and creative development space managed by Arts Queensland. Pronounced “BUULM-ba-jar”, the name has a shared meaning of house or place in Yidinji and Yirrganydji languages.

Bulmba-ja plays a vital role in the Cairns arts scene, showcasing the unique stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Visitors can engage with the work of Bulmba-ja tenants:

  • JUTE Theatre Company
  • NorthSite Contemporary Arts
  • Miriki Performing Arts
  • The Pryce Centre for Culture and Arts
  • Minjil.

Bulmba-ja opened on 29 February 2020 following a $5.9 million refurbishment as part of a Queensland Government vision to support far north Queensland (FNQ) arts and culture.

NorthSite Contemporary Arts Gallery and Store

NorthSite opening hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 10am to 5pm
  • Saturday: 9am to 1pm
NorthSite Contemporary Arts gallery and shop will be closed 2pm 24 December 2024 to 10am 13 January 2025 inclusive and will reopen 14 January 2025.

Accessibility

Parking

Bulmba-ja has street frontage with free median parking (3 hours during business hours). Hirers may access off-street parking to the rear of the building.

Toilets

Accessible toilets are located on both levels.

Hearing augmentation system

The Bulmba-ja theatre has a hearing augmentation system.

Call 07 4047 4910 if you have any specific requirements you would like to talk to staff about.

Cafe and bar operations

The The Hungry Pitcher operates at Bulmba-ja, and is a licensed café open for breakfast and lunch daily (except Sunday), serving fresh coffee and a gourmet menu including salads, gourmet sandwiches, juices and delicious cakes. The Hungry Pitcher also caters for events and functions at Bulmba-ja.

Hungry Pitcher café will be closed 21 December 2024 to 5 January 2025 inclusive and will reopen 6 January 2025.