Ganbu Gulin: wudhanu yuwanguth (festival opening)

Curator in Residence: Ethan Savage

Ethan Savage is a Northern Kaantju, Girramay and Badu Islander academic, broadcaster and emerging curator.

Of the Ganbu Gulin: wudhanu yuwanguth program, Ethan explains: "As one mob, we are many– the outcome of our ancestors and the model for the next. From Elders, to the next generation, and to those who are new in our community. Ganbu Gulin: wudhanu yuwanguth is a reflection of our shared movement, growth and evolution that honours continued cultural strength and resilience through celebration."  

Cultural and Curatorial Advisor: Stacie Piper

Stacie Piper is a Wurundjeri, Dja Dja Wurrung and Ngurai Illum-Wurrung woman, and an established academic, curator, dancer and cultural adviser.

Stacie Piper said: "Ganbu Gulin 'One Mob' is a unique and significant event for the community members receiving their citizenship. It positions Traditional Custodians at the fore, in collaboration with Darebin Council for its Citizenship Ceremony. This event welcomes new citizens and community members of all cultural backgrounds to participate in a Woiwurrung ceremony, fostering meaningful connections. The event showcases talented First Nations musicians, artists, and makers to honour a significant moment for community members."

EMMA DONOVAN

Emma Donovan is a celebrated Aboriginal Australian singer and songwriter, known for her powerful voice and heartfelt storytelling. A proud Gumbaynggirr and Noongar woman, Emma began her musical journey at the age of seven, performing with her family’s band, The Donovans. She later co-founded the Indigenous trio Stiff Gins and released her solo album Changes in 2004.

Emma’s collaboration with Melbourne rhythm combo The Putbacks has been particularly impactful, resulting in critically acclaimed albums such as Dawn (2014), Crossover (2020), and her latest release, Til My Song is Done (2024), which was nominated for an ARIA Award. Their work has earned multiple accolades, including Best Soul, Funk, R&B or Gospel Act, Best Group, and Best Album at the 2021 Music Victoria Awards.

Beyond her recordings, Emma has performed at numerous festivals and events across Australia, including the Big Jazz Day Out at Monash University. She has also collaborated with esteemed artists like Paul Kelly, The Teskey Brothers, Paul Grabowsky, Spinifex Gum, and the late Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter.

In 2025, Emma is set to launch her new project, Take Me To The River, at the Darwin Festival. This show pays tribute to the Black American artists who have influenced her journey, reimagined through an Australian lens.

Emma Donovan’s music is deeply rooted in her cultural heritage, often featuring songs in Gumbaynggirr and Noongar languages. Her work continues to inspire and resonate, making her a vital voice in Australia’s musical landscape.

DJIRRI DJIRRI DANCERS

Djirri Djirri are the only Wurundjeri female dance group, and are Traditional Custodians of Narrm (Melbourne) and surrounds. Djirri Djirri means Willy Wagtail in Woiwurrung, our Mother Tongue. The Willy Wagtail is the Spirit’s Messenger and gave us dance! Our dances honour our Liwik (Ancestors), Kerr-up-non (Family), Biik (Country) and animals. We are all connected by blood through one woman, Borate, Berak's (William Barak’s) sister. We ngarrga (dance) and yinga (sing) together as bininang (cousins), babi (nieces), girrin (aunties), baban (mothers), manggip (daughters), liwurruk (sisters) and bubup (babies).

DOE EYES

Doe Eyes is a Melbourne-based indie rock band that draws inspiration from the raw energy of 1970s rock, infused with a modern twist. Fronted by the powerhouse duo of singer and lead guitarist Jordan Clay and Indigenous vocalist Izzy Skye, Doe Eyes is redefining the boundaries of retro rock.

2JOOCEE

2Joocee has established themself as an eminent figure in the entertainment and cultural sectors, merging their profound artistic talents with their advocacy for diversity and inclusion. A distinguished Faboriginal MC, singer, and host, 2Joocee’s vibrant presence and dynamic performances have captivated audiences across Australia’s premier events, including Midsumma, Yirramboi, Melbourne Fringe, and Sydney World Pride 2023. Hailing from Broome, Western Australia, and now residing on the lands of the Kulin Nation, their work transcends mere entertainment, embodying a commitment to visibility and representation for First Nations and queer communities.

ENOKi (event artwork creator)

ENOKi (they/them) is a proud Dja Dja Wurrung and Yorta Yorta Blak Fulla based on Wurundjeri Country (Melbourne). They’re a multi-media artist with a focus on digital media. ENOKi’s previous work includes the First People's RISING art tram "My Aunty Once Told Me" (Routes 58 & 59) and Apple’s 2023 World Pride Campaign. They also contributed to Solid Lines, a Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (2022) sponsored report on fostering First Nations involvement in the design and commercial art industries.

Suitable for all ages. Families are encouraged to attend - there are kids' activities on offer with Wurundjeri Elder and crowd favourite Aunty Brenda.

The event will run for 240 minutes from 1pm - 5pm. Attendees may come and go as they wish throughout the course of the event.

The event will be held throughout Darebin Arts Centre and the adjacent Ray Bramham Gardens, with activities taking place indoors and outdoors. In the case of inclement weather all activity will take place indoors.

There are toilets and some food and drink facilities on site.

Darebin Arts Centre is easily accessible by car and by public transport. There is a free car park at the front of the centre, on the corner of St Georges Road and Bell Street. Bell Station (Mernda line) approximately a five-minute walk away. The #11 tram stop (St Georges Road / Miller Street) is approximately a ten-minute walk away, and the #513 and #514 bus stop is approximately a five-minute walk away.