The inaugural Dunggula Cultural Festival held on the Yarrawonga Foreshore last Saturday was a smashing success with more than 500 people attending and strengthening connections.
First Nation peoples of Bangerang, Yuin, Wiradjuri, Gamilaraay, Gomeroi, Yorta Yorta, Arrernte, Wemba Wemba, and many others were represented with many in attendance sporting Indigenous designed t-shirts, polo tops and Clapstick packs which were available at the Many Mobs merchandise tent before perusing more than 10 other cultural stalls hosted by Apma Creations, Chic n Co, Vegifix Catering Yarrawonga Bunnings, Rotary, Gallawah Hub, Prickly Lizard, Evangeline Coffee, Treaty for Victoria, and Uncle Eric Brown.
Throughout the day everyone was awed and inspired by the 80 First Nations Cultural performers including singers Mitch Tambo, Voice of Lele, The Warrens’, Prodigal-1 and Damien ‘Dookie’ Thorne whilst also enjoying the sharing of story-lines and yarning by Indigenous dance groups Marrambidya Dance Group, Gulaga Dancers, Big River Gomeroi, and our own Many Mobs Kawi Dancers.
Dunggula Cultural Festival event funding manager Michaela Jane said Many Mobs Indigenous Corporation were very proud to have created the first cultural festival in Yarrawonga and to be able to showcase several mobs from around the area.
“From the survey and social reports we have received, people have asked us to please make this an annual event as well as commenting that they learnt so much they didn't know about Australian culture and this is how Australia can move towards reconciliation,” Michaela Jane said.
“Today we have many First Nations and Allies as members, and we work in many spaces across Australia passionately sharing culture.
“Many Mobs social media gained 120 new followers over the weekend which is fantastic and we made and strengthened connections.
"The Dunggula Cultural Festival is backed by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), and the Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Fund.
“We do want to run 2025 Dunggula Cultural Festival and will be looking into funding and sponsorship soon.”
Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson PSM said that it was great to see this fantastic celebration of Indigenous culture full of dance, performance, art, and food held here in Yarrawonga.
“This powerful experience of all nations combined will not be forgotten. Many Mobs created this wonderful experience of First Nations Culture for you!” Dr Emonson said.
“We wanted to show that culture is not lost or forgotten. It is here to stay and accessible. Come along and learn about Australia's oldest living culture.
“We recognise and treasure our supporters of the event.”
Michaela Jane concluded that Many Mobs is always keen for more people to be involved.
“If you want to know more and support us, send us an email manymobsvichq@gmail.com or link with us on Facebook,” Michaela Jane said.