Djarmalak Concerts on Country

Acclaimed Indigenous vocalist Emma Donovan and Torres Strait Islands music sensation Mau Power headline the second of three special Sundays this month, as part of the Djarmalak; Concerts on Country series.

By Tierney Seccull

Held in the remote Aboriginal community of Beswick/Wugularr, the festival was created by Djilpin Arts to celebrate the legacy of Balang T. E. Lewis, and derived from his beloved Walking With Spirits festival.

Performing as a trio for Djarmalak, Donovan has a special, intimate show on the cards for lucky audience members. She recently took out the First Nations Arts and Culture Fellowship as part of the First Nations Arts Awards, and plans to use the opportunity to produce an album featuring songs for children in traditional language as a way of giving back to community. That’s when she’s not touring the country performing solo gigs and supporting some of the biggest names in Aussie music, including Icehouse and The Teskey Brothers.

One of the original rappers emerging from the rich musical traditions of the Torres Strait, Mau Power is well respected as a leader in his community. He says it was a sense of community that drew him to Djarmalak.

“For me, it's the gathering of communities of the NT … Being welcomed by the Beswick community to perform and share my music on their Country is a huge compliment and I am very humbled by it,” he says.

“I've seen previous Djamalak shows in the past online and the experience of being surrounded by such beautiful land and people is what drew me to perform this year. It would also be so amazing to connect with people from the NT who have been following my music for many years – it's finally time to show them love and appreciation!”

Yolŋu Songmen Djakapurra Munyarrun and Rrawun Maymuru return to bring the ancient Songlines of their country to the stage, the event hosted by the wonderful Constantina Bush.

There’s also dance, art, workshops, food and conversation – and you’re welcome to set up camp or take a day tour. There’s just two more opportunities to soak up the kindness and culture of this year’s Djarmalak – don’t miss this beautiful, immersive cultural experience.

Djarmalak; Concerts on Country
WHEN SUN 24 JUL
AT BESWICK COMMUNITY
COST $50 | $50 WORKSHOP | $50 CAMPING PER VEHICLE
INFO djilpinarts.org.au