QUEENSLAND PROGRAMS
Upbeat Arts provides group-based recovery programs tailored for long-term clients of mental health services, clinicians and/or medical professionals. The programs focus on enhancing confidence, self-esteem, communication, and life skills.
Our arts programs foster social connections, positive mental health, and overall well-being. Singing in an Upbeat Arts choir or writing in one of our creative writing programs, offers our members a supportive and enjoyable environment to connect with like-minded individuals.
These tailored arts programs provide new skills, hope, comfort and connection for our members.
Given the nature of these community mental health programs, it’s important that members are able to manage their behaviour independently or with the support of an attending carer. This enables our choirs and writing groups to maintain a calm and respectful environment.
Members are provided with a safe place where they are accepted and have an opportunity to grow and flourish.
Choirs are available now as below – Brisbane, North Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. A new choir will launch in Bundaberg in April 2026.
Our Writing Group is available online or at South Brisbane.
Choose from the following programs....
Key Information Friday 10am to 12:30pm weekly | South Brisbane
The Brisbane Choir celebrated their eleventh birthday in 2025 and being a member has been life changing for many.
Click here for more information.
Key Information Wednesday 10am to 12:30pm weekly | Wavell Heights
Our North Brisbane Choir which launched in April 2022 brings connection, acceptance and fun to its many members.
Click here for more information.
Key Information Thursday 10am to 12:30pm weekly | Buderim
Our newest choir on the Sunshine Coast began on 13 June 2024. Be part of this exciting gorgeous group of singers where everyone comes along to build skills, confidence and social connection.
Click here for more information.
Key Information Monday 10am to 12:30pm weekly | Southport
This brand new choir launched on 13 October 2025 and is already hitting all the right notes. Join us, we’re still looking for members to be part of this program.
Key Information To be confirmed
We’re currently working with our sector colleagues in Bundaberg and will add more information here when it is available.
Key Information Tuesday 1 – 2:30pm weekly | South Brisbane (online option available)
‘Word on the Street’ is a creative writing course that will help you find your voice on the page.
Key Information Monday 2pm to 3:30pm weekly | Online
‘Word on the Street’ ONLINE is a chance for members across Queensland to have access to a quality creative writing course.
FAQs
Where are the programs held?
Our programs are held in venues with public transport nearby and/or parking. Suburbs are listed when you click on the program information. Prior registration is required, and venue details are provided to members on receipt of your application form and confirmation of your acceptance into the program.
Who are they for & how much?
The Upbeat Arts programs are delivered primarily for adults with a mental illness. There is no cost – however it is a requirement to include on the application form, basic details of the mental health diagnosis and information about who is providing support to the new member. This might be a clinician from Queensland Health, a support worker from a non-government mental health service, or details of support being received from another mental health, homelessness or drugs and alcohol support service. There’s an option to include their medical professional or GP if not working with any of the above. Refer to our application form for all the details.
