Published on Wednesday, 23 April 2025 at 10:38:01 AM
The Shire of Carnarvon was proud to be a presenting partner of the Jamba Nyinayi Festival, which took place over the weekend on Cardabia Station in Coral Bay. The three-day cultural festival brought together people from across Australia to celebrate Baiyungu culture through dance, music, workshops, and storytelling.
Guided by the 2025 festival theme of Connection, the event was inspired by Traditional Owner and Cultural Director Hazel Walgar, who shared:
“For us this is our home, this is where we come to heal. Jamba Nyinayi means everything to me, it’s about people coming together and sharing what we do.”
The festival featured several exciting firsts, including:
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A traditional Men’s Dance performed by the Baiyungu Dancers — the first time in over 50 years this has occurred on Baiyungu Country.
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Sold-out Native Bush Foods Workshops presented by Matt Moncrieff, showcasing traditional prawn and calamari dishes using native ingredients from the region.
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A special headline performance from Australian music legend Shane Howard, who played to a full crowd at the Cardabia Station Shearing Shed.
Festival-goers also experienced dance performances from Coral Spawn, Binmaga Yamatji Dancers, and Maatakitj, led by Noongar musician and composer Clint Bracknell.
From camping on Country to hands-on workshops and traditional performance, every part of the festival reflected the strength, pride, and enduring spirit of Baiyungu culture. The Shire extends its thanks and congratulations to all involved in bringing this extraordinary event to life.
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