Connect to Country in Gariwerd this summer

Parks Victoria

This summer Brambuk: The National Park and Cultural Centre is hosting a range of live musical performances and cultural workshops conducted by some of Gariwerd’s most talented Traditional Owners.

After a hugely successful program in December, the January program of the Brambuk Summer Series is set to kick off tomorrow. The new line-up includes small, intimate live music performances by well-known artists including:

• 8 January – Andy Alberts and The Walkabouts.

Andy Alberts is a Gunditjmara singer songwriter who has travelled Australia playing various festivals and venues. Over the years, he’s created a strong following as a solo artist or with his fantastic band ‘The Walkabouts’ featuring their unique blend of country and country rock.

• 15 January – Amos Roach.

Amos is a proud Ngarrandjerri/ Djab Wurrung/Gunditj Mara man. He has been playing music with his parents all his life and has created his own niche and career. He plays his own songs, founded in rhythm with the Didgeridoo, featuring Flamenco-influenced rap music, family ballads and rock. His music presents a narrative of healing, told with song and dance. Amos is currently the Inaugural First Nations Artist in Residence at the Australian Arts Orchestra/ MIJF and an Award-Winning Director of the Neon Ngargee.

• 22 January – Dave Arden.

Dave is a proud Gunditjmara/Kokatha songman and story-teller. He has played with many of the most respected names in Australian music – Archie Roach, Paul Kelly, Ruby Hunter, Stephen Pigram, Shane Howard, to name a few. His songs are about family, community, culture, custom, lingo and tribal life that is still alive and misunderstood in this country.

Interactive cultural workshops will also be held including:

• 8 January – Murrundaya Yepengna dancers will host dynamic workshops of dancing and singing. The troupe includes some of the Kulin Nations’ most experienced dancers and songmen who have opened festivals and featured in concerts and gala occasions around the country. Workshop participants will learn some Gunditj Mara and Djab Wurrung songs and dances, with an emphasis on the seasons, flora and animals of the Gariwerd area. For people all ages.

• 15 January – Basket Weaving with Djapwurrung artist, Rebecca Jakobi. Rebecca will introduce participants to traditional weaving techniques of western Victoria. Her passion for weaving comes from her connection to Country and traditional practices that have been passed on by her Elders. For people over 8 years of age.

All events and activities are free but bookings are essential: https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/news/2021/11/29/02/12/brambuk-summer-series-2021-22

Brambuk: The National Park and Cultural Centre is managed by Parks Victoria in association with Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.

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