Australia’s largest one-day celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures, the Yabun Festival, is set to return on January 26th, taking place at Victoria Park on the traditional lands of the Gadigal people.
Established in 2003 by the Gadigal Information Service Aboriginal Corporation, Yabun has become an eagerly awaited annual event.
This free and inclusive festival offers a diverse range of activities and experiences for all attendees, with MCs Majeda Beatty and Isaac Compton guiding us through the day’s festivities.
The festival radiates the richness and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through:
Live Music: Experience the talents of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians as they take the stage and share their extraordinary artistry.
Our artists’ lineup includes the incredible Emily Wurramara, Tjaka, Mi-kaisha, Frank Yamma, Cindy Drummond, Tasman Keith, Glves, Green Hand Band, Velvet Trip, and Chasing Hosts.
Children Activities: A fun space for our youngest attendees to learn, play, and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture.
Market Stalls: Explore a bustling marketplace showcasing various goods and products, highlighting craftsmanship and creativity.
Some of the participating stalls include BRACKS Indigenous Clothing, Café Dreaming Redfern, Gillawarra Arts, Mary's Wiradjuri Beading, River Sistas, Saretta Art & Design, William Walker Respecting Country, Yaingayaingarra, Kallico Catering, and Dream Big Education Wellbeing & Consulting.
Panel discussions and community forums: The ‘Speak Out’ tent is back with engaging and meaningful conversations about the crucial issues facing Aboriginal communities today.
Traditional performances: Corroboree is back! MCed by Katie Leslie and Nathan Leslie, be captivated by the vibrant and culturally significant performances that showcase the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander traditions.
Featuring dance groups such as Jannawi Dance Clan, Mui Mui Bumer Gedlam, Wagana, Brolga Dance, Yangkay, Djaadjawawan Dancers, Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, Muggera, Buuja Buuja Butterfly Dance and Djawula Dancers.
Elders Space: We’ve also created a dedicated space for our Elders to relax, have a feed and connect with mob at the Elder’s tent.
As an exciting addition this year, The Yabun Festival is delighted to offer Free Entry for all ages to the Victoria Park Pool, where attendees can cool off and relax while enjoying the festival.
The Yabun Festival extends a warm invitation to people from all walks of life to join in this unique event, paying homage to the enduring legacy of the world’s oldest living cultures.
Event Details
Date: January 26, 2024
Time: 10am - 6pm
Location: Victoria Park, Traditional lands of the Gadigal people, Sydney
This year’s theme, “Surviving, Guiding, Thriving,” reflects the resilience, wisdom, and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
After a challenging year with the referendum, the Yabun festival stands as a testament that regardless of political landscapes, Indigenous culture and communities continue to flourish.
We proudly embrace our role as the world’s oldest living culture, celebrating our heritage, guidance and the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous life.
Join us on this special day as we come together to honour the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a thriving future.
Event Sponsors: City of Sydney, The University of Sydney, Inner West Council, Sound NSW and Supply Nation.
Media Partner: Wiriiyn Communications and Media
About us:
About Gadigal Information Service
Gadigal Information Service (GIS), founded in 1993, is a prominent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander arts andmedia hub in Redfern, Sydney. Home to the Indigenous community radio station Koori Radio, GIS broadcasts 24/7 on 93.7fm in Greater Sydney, DAB+, and online streaming globally. Koori Radio offers a dynamic mix of Indigenousand black music, talkback, news, current affairs, chat, and community information. It also produces five weekly programs broadcast nationally and covers major Indigenous events with an award-winning team.
GIS actively supports and promotes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musicians, broadcasters, and young talent through workshops. Their annual Yabun event and Klub Koori gatherings celebrate culture and community.
Contact details:
Miah Wright Yabun Producer
P: (02) 93844000
Level 3, 27 Cope Street, Redfern, NSW, 2016
