Becoming a member of the Queensland Irish Association (QIA) is more than joining a cultural group — it’s stepping into a living legacy that stretches back over 125 years. Established in 1898, the QIA is Queensland’s oldest Irish organisation and has long stood at the heart of Irish cultural life in the state. From celebrating shared heritage to preserving precious artefacts and stories, the QIA plays a vital role in keeping the Irish spirit alive in Australia.

A Proud Guardian of Irish Heritage

The QIA isn’t just a social club — it’s a custodian of Ireland’s story in Queensland. The Association maintains a substantial library of Irish and Gaelic books, including a treasured facsimile of the Book of Kells, and continues to safeguard a wide range of artefacts, records and memorabilia. It was recognised for its cultural significance through its contribution to the National Museum of Australia’s major exhibition, Not Just Ned: A True History of the Irish in Australia. This acknowledgement reflects the Association’s standing as a leading authority on Irish history in the state.

The Association has also played a role in major historical commemorations, including hosting lectures and exhibitions on events in Irish and Irish Australian history and culture. It remains actively engaged in educating new generations about the Irish influence in Australia’s development, through talks, publications and participation in local, national and international cultural events.

Showcasing Irish Arts: Pipes, Dance and Song

The Association proudly supports Queensland Irish Association Pipe Band, established in 1914, one of Australia’s oldest and most respected pipe bands.

The Association also proudly supports the QIA Dancers, a talented troupe of Irish dancing performers who light up stages with fast-footed jigs and reels.

A Year-Round Calendar of Events

Members enjoy access to a packed calendar of events, from large-scale public celebrations to more intimate community gatherings. Chief among these is Brisbane’s annual St Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival, which the QIA supports in partnership with the wider Irish community. Other highlights include:

• Regular Members’ Lunches and gatherings, often featuring live Irish entertainment. These include Christmas and St Patrick’s Day gatherings

• Commemorative events such as cemetery tours and history talks

• Cultural events such as our annual Bloomsday in Brisbane, St Brigid’s Day screenings, regular Irish movie screenings and other Irish festivities. For several years, the Association has also sponsored the Irish Film Festival Australia

• Support for Irish sporting teams, including community events around visits by Irish football and rugby tours

• Participation in Celtic festivals, and supporting our friends in the Celtic community across Queensland

• Support for associated groups, we help promote concerts by Queensland Irish Choir, sports events at Queensland Gaelic Football and Hurling Association, Tara Hall Dining Club lunches, and other Irish events

A Welcoming Community

Whether you’re Irish-born, of Irish descent, or simply drawn to the warmth of Irish culture, the QIA is a place to connect. Members come from all walks of life but share a passion for the culture, history and future of the Irish in Queensland. Through shared events and regular gatherings, friendships are formed, stories are shared, and traditions are passed on.

The QIA also maintains strong relationships with Irish groups across Australia and abroad, helping members stay connected with a global diaspora.

Membership Options

The QIA offers flexible membership categories — including National and Associate Membership — with an affordable annual fee of just $20. Members receive regular newsletters, invitations to events, access to the Association’s resources, and the satisfaction of supporting a thriving cultural institution.

Join the Legacy

Whether you want to celebrate your Irish roots, learn more about the culture, contribute to the preservation of Irish-Australian history, or simply enjoy a few laughs over a pint of Guinness — joining the Queensland Irish Association is your invitation into a warm, proud, and enduring community.

To join, sign up here.