Yirrkala Yarrapay Festival
In the north east corner of the Top End sits Yirrkala. A tiny dot on the Australian map, but home to a massive space in Australian music and culture.
By Liz Trevaskis
The richness and history of local talent in this remote part of the Territory will be celebrated this month at the inaugural Yarrapay Festival, created to continue the legacy of the late Dr Yunupingu, lead singer of Yothu Yindi.
Local bands East Journey, Yirrmal, Ezy 5, Mary Handsome, and Barra - West Wind lead the local lineup with a special performance from Dr Yunupingu’s daughter Dhapanbal Yunupingu.
From beyond Yirrkala, nationally acclaimed artists The Medics will take the stage joined by Shellie Morris, along with hip-hop hero Jimblah and reality TV stars and chart-busters Justice Crew.
A highlight of the festival is Gove’s Got Talent, where young performers will showcase their extraordinary talents on stage to industry professionals.
The Yirrkala Yarrapay festival also celebrates fashion and dance with Yirrkala based Miss World entrant Magnolia Maymuru leading a catwalk show, and performances from the Moonfish Dance Company.
There can never be enough Top End festivals, and the Yirrkala Yarrapay Festival is bound to become an annual highlight on the Dry season calendar.
Sat 2 Jul, 4pm | Rika Park, Yirrkala | FREE | Check out the Facebook page here!
