An array of activities showcasing the Indigenous Cultures of south-east Victoria has been organised by the William Cooper Institute at Monash University for the 2023 Indigenous Nationals this week.
William Cooper Institute representative Allira Jones says this year’s Indigenous Nationals plans to highlight the Kulin Nations, which are made up of five language groups. Monash University's four Australian campuses reside on the lands of the Kulin Nations.
It is "a tribute to, and a celebration of, Aboriginal-owned businesses and vendors based on the Kulin Country,” she said.
“We're carrying this theme from the artwork commissioned by Dungala Creations, which honours the lands and waterways of Kulin Country, through to the open ceremony with Bandok Tati, a local Aboriginal men’s dance group, and across each day at the Gathering Hub.”
The Gathering Hub, which has been curated with native florals from Gathermore Floral Events, has a yarning circle in the centre, where people can share their stories and come together.
The Hub will be open each day of Indigenous Nationals, located in the Monash Sport outdoor precinct.
To accompany the celebration of Indigenous-owned businesses, Sammy’s Cafe at Monash Sport will be using coffee beans produced by Talwali Coffee Beans during the event.
Radio DJs and hosts from Aboriginal-owned radio station 3KND will broadcast live from the event this Tuesday (June 27), interviewing the different business owners and reporting the games.
Key events
Tuesday: Koorie (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Victoria) Market Day
- About 12-13 businesses owned by Indigenous people of the Kulin Nations will have products on sale, including Clothing the Gaps, Ngarrimili, Yarn Strong Sista, Deadly Wears and Haus of Dizzy
Wednesday: Health and Wellbeing Day
-
Yidaki-led meditation with Uncle Lionel Lauch from Living Culture
-
Wayapa Wuurk with Kayla Cartledge from Our Songlines
Thursday: Sharing Culture Day
- Many different cultural workshops where people can learn about Indigenous Cultures
- Traditional bush tucker and medicine with Uncle Lionel Lauch from Living Culture
- Trad (traditional) games with Clothing the Gaps Foundation
All are welcome to come along to Monash Sport and get immersed in Indigenous Cultures.
This story was written in cooperation with the William Cooper Institute.