Giiyong Festival announces full program

Phoebe Blogg
Phoebe Blogg Published November 4, 2024 at 4.30am (AWST)

Giiyong Festival, one of the largest Aboriginal cultural festivals in southern New South Wales, has announced its full program.

Event organisers South East Arts, Twofold Aboriginal Corporation and Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Aboriginal-owned property, Jigamy, home of the Thaua people, on Saturday 9 November.

Boasting a huge day of live music, dance, speakers and presenters, workshops and cultural demonstrations, the events' program has been curated to offer something for everyone.

The festival is a celebration of the cultural history of the region, as well as presenting high-profile Aboriginal artists from across the country.

Giiyong means 'come to welcome' in the a number of languages spoken by south coast Traditional Owners, with all members of the public welcome to attend the event.

Giiyong Festival Site map. (Image: supplied)

In 2024, the Giiyong Festival program includes performances and interactive sessions that will appeal to all ages. There will also be many hands-on activities on offer, including painting, spear and tool making and weaving.

Twofold Aboriginal Corporation joint interim chief executive officer, Alison Simpson, said visitors to this year's Giiyong Festival will be spoilt for choice.

"People who attend Giiyong Festival often experience a 'moment' - that one thing they encounter at the event that really moves them," Ms Simpson said.

"In 2024, from experiencing the power of Australia's hip hop queen BARKAA and the soulful tunes of Benny Walker to the awe-inspiring Dhilwaan Yarrkural (Nightfall Dance), and everything in between, visitors will be spoilt for choice.

"We are really pleased to have a huge range of regional content this year, alongside some of Australia's leading Aboriginal identities including Sean Choolburra, Clarence Slockee, Chef Mark Olive, Bush Tucker Bunjie and Aunty Amanda Jane Reynolds.

"Local musicians and dancers will perform, including children from schools in Eden and Pambula, and we will hear from up and coming young Aboriginal leaders in a special panel discussion with hip hop star, Nooky and former Bega resident Juanita (Polly) Scott-Funaki."

Giiyong Festival 2023 People & Venue. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

There will be three zones at Giiyong Festival including the Uncle Jimmy Aldridge stage (live music), the Uncle Phillip Manton Ganya (Cultural presentations and dance) and the Aunty Elaine Thomas stage (speakers and discussion). The Guganyala Arts Market is set to showcase over 30 stallholders and a variety of food trucks will also be heading to the festival.

Festival director Jazz Williams, of South East Arts, said the event has grown to become one of the premiere Aboriginal cultural festivals in the country and would not be possible without the help of many generous volunteers and staff.

"As well as our outstanding team and contractors, we can't pull off this event without the support of our army of volunteers. They come from all walks of life and as far away as Queensland, we really appreciate the effort they go to and their commitment to what has become one of the premiere Aboriginal cultural festivals in the country," she said.

Giiyong Festival 2023 Gudu Dancers. (Image: David Rogers Photography)

First held in 2018, Giiyong Festival provides an opportunity in southeast NSW for the entire community to come together in celebration of Aboriginal arts, culture, reconciliation and resilience.

Giiyong Festival is made possible by funding from Create NSW and local sponsors.

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