The second annual Quandamooka Festival will be held from July to September this year.
CEO of the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC) Cameron Costello said that after the success of the inaugural festival last year, planning for this year’s event is on schedule to deliver and even better festival.
The festival is about offering a unique opportunity for people to experience the continuing culture of the Nughi, Nunukul and Goenpul clans of Quandamooka, first-hand.
“We want to extend a big Yura (hello, welcome in Jandai language) to all visitors and locals.
“Events will be held across the Redlands and Brisbane, with many highlights,” Cameron added.
With activities planned for all ages, the festival includes cultural tours of Minjerribah, art exhibitions and workshops, Traditional song and dance, Traditional tucker, music, spoken word, film nights, Black History month events, markets, ongoing whale watching tours, Quandamooka land & sea discovery days,and more.
Hear dreaming stories from Winnam (Wynnum), Narlung (Manly), Cullen-Cullen (Wellington Point), Mulgumpin (Moreton Island), Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), Nandeebie (Cleveland), Canaipa (Russell Island), Jencoomercha (Macleay Island), Ngudooroo (Lamb Island), Coochie Mudlo Island, Turkroorar (Peel Island), Tangeera (Green Island), Noogoon (St Helena) and Bungumba (Mud Island) and deepen your understanding of this area.
The opening on 3rd of July on the waterfront at Goompi (Dunwich) will be spectacular with a Tradional Welcome, Song and dance, markets, workshops and numerous musical guests including the legendary Uncle Joe Geia.
Geia is a Guugu Yimidhirr/ Kuku Yalangi Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander man, a renowned singer/songwriter and influential figure in the development of contemporary Indigenous music, perhaps best known for his song and album of the same name “Yil Lull”.
He writes music of bravery and beauty, telling of Aboriginal life in Australia, of the quest for justice and belonging, of history, family and love.
“I want to promote change and understanding, melodically and harmoniously,” he says, “while still sharing the little known aspects of Aboriginal history.”
Returning again after popular demand will be monthly Traditional tucker 3-course luncheons. The Quandamooka People traditionally harvested food from the sea and mixed it with spices that will tantalise your taste buds. Fresh, local meals available at great prices courtesy of the lovely local cooks at the Minjerriba Day Respite Centre.
Visit quandamooka festival Facebook page of the website for the full program of events, which will be announced in May. For sponsorship opportunities, or to become a volunteer, email quandamookafestival@gmail.com or contact the QYAC office on 3415 2816 or Nikki Michail, Program Co-ordinator on 0407 641 323. www.quandamookafestival.com.au
• Planning meeting for the the 2016 Quandamooka Festival
(back row) Pekeri Ruska, Aunty Lynette Shipway, Sonja Carmichael,
(front ) Aunty Donna Ruska, Paula Delaney-Nazarski, Avril Quaill, Delvene Cockatoo-Collins, and Nikki Michail.