For the past two years Noongar artist Bumpy has been working on a suite of songs for the Australian Art Orchestra as part of her artist-in-residency role with the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.Her show is called Tooni and it turns Bumpy's deeply personal experience of learning her language into music.

The Kimberley region of Western Australia is the only place in the country where boab trees grow. Here, they are prolific.Our language legend Jane Edwards has been sharing Nyigina from her home in Derby in the west Kimberley region. Today, she shares the Nyigina word for the boab tree. 

DanceRites is a national cultural dance competition that sees dance groups from across the country come together to shake a leg.This year, 18 groups from remote, regional and metropolitan areas across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia and the Torres Strait Islands have come to the forecourt of the Sydney Opera House.Judge Tara Gower shares what she's expecting from this year's event. 

The Tarnanthi Art Fair is one of the ways the event celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists. In doing so, it platforms their stories. A story that’s front of mind for many First Nations artists at the moment has to do with renal dialysis.If you live in a remote area and you need to access that healthcare, you’re faced with either leaving your Country to receive treatment, or making long, difficult journeys back and forth between your home and the clinic. That’s where Purple House comes in – it's an Indigenous-owned health service with 18 remote clinics and a mobile dialysis unit called the Purple Truck. They’re there so patients can get back home and maintain strong cultural ties. What does this have to do with the Tarnanthi Art Fair?Purple House CEO Sarah Brown and Tarnanthi Artistic Director Nici Cumpston explain. 

Jane Edwards is in Derby in the west Kimberley sharing some of her language: Nyigina. Last week, she shared the Nyigina word for a great-grandmother. This week, she’s focusing on a different family member.

T Breezy is Gamilaraay artist from Inverell. He released his debut joint mixtape ‘Souths Most Wanted’ with his brother and collaborator Walkerboy earlier this year and just finished touring it regionally. Even though the music has a bite, it’s thematically hopeful. T Breezy is the same. He shares what he loves about country music, what draws him to touring regionally, and how life as an artist has shaped him so far. T Breezy also performs a song from 'Souths Most Wanted' live in the RN studios on Gadigal Country. 

The Tennant Creek Brio is an art collective that grew out of a mental health program for men. Now the collective is preparing for its first major survey exhibition at the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art — Juparnta Ngattu Minjinypa Iconocrisis.Artist Jimmy Frank Jupurrula and curator Max Delany explain how their work blends strong cultural values with a punk attitude.

Shine on Gimuy will celebrate First Nations art and culture with light installations, art sculptures, animations, and soundscapes, and a full festival program with music performances, cultural dance, comedy, and conversations.The festival's artistic director Rhoda Roberts shares what drew her to Shine on Gimuy, and explains the importance of spotlighting local talent. 

Meet Jane Edwards in Derby in the west Kimberly. She’s our language legend this month.Today, Jane shares a Nyigina word that can describe someone’s daughter. It’s also the word for a great-grandmother – who becomes a daughter to her great-grandchildren.

Dylan Rivers' latest project Thou Shalt Not Steal follows the story of a rebellious teen named Robyn, who races through 1980s Central Australia in a stolen taxi.Dylan explains how he's using comedy to bring First Nations issues to a wider audience, and how his eclectic back catalogue informs his filmmaking.

An incredible panel discussion about First Nations perspective in poetry was recorded at the NSW State Library during National Poetry month for BBC Arts Hour and Red Room Poetry. Daniel Browning Lulu Houdini, Rob Waters and Nicole Smede talk through the action of writing poems.

Kalkatungu is the language of the Mt Isa area, and Will Blackley has been working with a team to revitalise it.For his final time on Word Up, Will shares the Kalkatungu words he uses when there’s a storm brewing. 

Will Blackley live in the Mount Isa area on Kalkatungu Country. But his life started on Palm Island. He describes how he got to know his language when he wasn’t on Country, and shares the Kalakatungu word for kangaroo.

Bruce Denning is Yamatji actor, director, poet and playwright based in Western Australia. His new play, Operation Boomerang, follows the central character Nana as she enlists the help of her family to break out of her nursing home. Bruce explains how Operation Boomerang grew from a role play for medical students into a full-length show.

As an advocate for Blackfullas in music, film and theatre, Alethea Beetson is typically creating space for others. She explains what she learnt by centring herself in her last work — Meet Your Maker.

Will Blackley shares the Kalkatungu word for ‘fire’ and explains how the pronunciation of the language has shifted over time.

Kamilaroi Bigambul artist Archie Moore accepted the Golden Lion at the 60th Venice Biennale earlier this year.His installation – kith and kin – was a vast yet intricate piece that the judges praised for offering “a glimmer of possibility for recuperation."

Will Blackley is part of a team of people working to revitalise Kalkatungu language in north-west Queensland. He's also our language legend on Word Up this month.Will shares the Kalkatungu name of a familiar constellation.

The Brady Bunch are a pretty big deal in the Brisbane suburb of Inala, famed for the big feeds in their kitchen and the deadly tunes on the turntable. One of 11 siblings, Troy Brady has slick dance moves borrowed from R&B superstars like Bobby Brown and Boyz II Men, but what he doesn’t have is a connection to Language. A cup of tea with a 104-year-old bushman might change that forever. 

As a format, digital games do a great job of reflecting First Nations perspectives. Our stories tend to be nonlinear and expansive narratives that link the past, present, and future together. Games work in a similar way: they can tie the material to the spiritual and operate outside Western narrative trajectories.So why aren’t there more Indigenous-led video games?  Ben Armstrong and Dr Rhett Loban explain. 

This month, Christine Anu has been sharing some of her maternal grandfather’s language – Kala Kawa Ya. For her final time on Word Up, Christine shares a word she learned recently after her Uncle Michael Jenson Warusam-Waigana heard her on the radio. 

Dr Terri Janke says Indigenous cultures are like Indigenous lands: they aren’t free to be taken.It’s something that we (mostly) understand when it comes to visual art, but what about food? Or dance? Or even language?At Garma Festival this year, Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch facilitated a discussion between Jake Budd, Joel Webber, Patricia Adjei and John Chester about the practical application of ICIP.

Me, Antman & Fleabag follows three central characters as they pack up the car, crank some Slim Dusty and drink in the good things in life like family, laughing and travelling. The 22 short stories are big-hearted, colourful, and full of humour.In the nearly two decades since it was published, Gayle Kennedy wonders if Me, Antman and Fleabag ever reached its full potential. Now included in UQP's First Nations Classics series, Gayle and writer Jared Thomas reflect on the books place in the landscape of Australian literature. 

First Nations participation in the Olympic Games has come a long way in a relatively short time. Eleven Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander athletes competed across eight sports in Paris, and four Indigenous athletes will compete in the Paralympics later this month.But the first Aboriginal person to compete in the Olympics was Francis Roberts — a Widjabul Wia-bal and Githabul man whose fight in the boxing ring mirrored his fight for his family and his culture.With the story adapted for the stage by Rhoda Roberts, director Kirk Page reflects on Frank Roberts' legacy.See My Cousin Frank at the Star Court Theatre in Lismore on 24 August, and Byron Bay Theatre on 30 and 31 August. Ticket and more info here.

Christine Anu has been sharing some of her maternal grandfather’s language, Kala Kawa Ya.She's explained the significance of the 'waku' (a woven mat), and shared a word that means to roll out.This week, Christine shares a word that means to fold or roll up.

Straight from the Strait is a new Torres Strait Islander musical from Opera Queensland.It pays homage to a group of men and women who travelled from their island homes to work on the Mount Newman railway construction project.Cultural consultant, Aunty Ruth Ghee discusses the inspiration behind the show, and what it means to her to share the story as the daughter of one of the men who constructed the railway.

Christine Anu shares a Kala Kawa Ya word that means to roll out a woven mat.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have found truths in the sky since the beginning of time. But how does that knowledge work in tandem with studies like astrophysics and astronomy?Dr Krystal De Napoli and Peter Swanton are two of a growing number of First Nations people working in STEM, and helping to weave these knowledges together.

In Wajarri Yamaji Country, the CSIRO has built more than 130,000 antennae to unlock the secrets of the universe.Des Mongoo and Lockie Ronan explain how the CSIRO has worked with traditional owners to design and build major observatory Inyarrimanha Ilgari Bundara.

Singer-songwriter Christine Anu shares the Kala Kawa Ya name for a woven mat: waku.

Established by the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory in 1984 the Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards recognises and celebrates the diversity of Indigenous art throughout Australia.With a total cash prize of $190,000 – including $100,000 for the major prize – it’s arguably Australia’s richest art prize.This year, Noli Rictor’s expert use of colour and composition has captured the judges’ attention and won him the major prize.NATSIAA judge Katina Davidson along with artists Noli Rictor, Josina Pumani, Natalie Davey, Obed Namirrkki and Shannon Brett discuss the NATSIAAs from Larrakia Country.

Christine Anu is a prolific Australian music icon.This month she's sharing some of her mother's language Kala Kawa Ya from the north-west region of the Torres Strait.Her first word is a welcoming word: sew ngapa.

Vicki van Hout is an independent artist with more than three decades of experience.A dancer, choreographer, writer and thinker, Vicki delights in finding the line between the pedestrian and the sublime.This month Vicki and her longtime collaborative partner Marian Abboud will invite people to take part in a "surrealist sojourn into mortal musings" at the Festival of Dangerous Ideas.Then, she'll host a six day workshop on Indigenous contemporary dance making at IDEA'24.So what makes Vicki van Hout's creativity so dangerous?

A self-confessed "sensitive people pleaser", Steph Tisdell says her first novel – The Skin I’m In –  is probably the most vulnerable thing she’s ever done.

As the appetite for diverse stories grows, the publishing industry has been looking for ways to ensure those stories reflect our diverse world accurately.One solution: sensitivity readers.Rudi joins forces with two other sensitivity readers for RN's Big Weekend of Books to discuss what the job looks like in practice.

Dr Shellie Morris AO discusses the her latest album Waralungku; which carries forward a ten-year legacy of writing songs with “strong cultural women” of Borroloola. She also reflects on the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAs) as she prepares to perform at the 2024 ceremony, and looks back at her Female Artist of the Year win from 2004.

As Western Australia approaches the bicentennial year of the colony, Noongar and Yawuru writer and researcher Elfie Shiosaki explores her Country's memories of colonial violence in her collection of poetry Refugia.She discuss the relationship between her research and her writing, and how she’s able to shape her ideas into themes.

Henry is a community broadcaster who lives and works on Nyul Nyul Country, in the Dampier Peninsula near Beagle Bay.Today, Henry is sharing a word in honour of his dad.

DOBBY perfoms live in the RN studios, and talks through his latest album WARRANGU: River Story. He'll explain how the WARRANGU project has changed shape over the years, why fighting to protect the rivers is so close to his heart, and why he doesn’t consider himself to be an activist.

Henry Augustine is a community broadcaster from Nyul Nyul Country, located on the Dampier Peninsula at Beagle Bay. Today, he shares the Nyul Nyul word for Country.

Each year, the National NAIDOC Awards honour a male Elder and a female Elder for their lifetime commitment and contribution to empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.Uncle Kim Collard is a Balladong/Wadjuk Elder of the Noongar Nation, and the recipient of this year's award. He explains what the award means to him, and the responsibility Eldership.

Each year the National NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award is given to someone who’s advocacy has left an indelible mark. This year, Aunty Dulcie Flower AM is being awarded the honour. She’s a co-founder of the Aboriginal Medical Service, played a pivotal role in the campaign for the 1967 Referendum, and has acted in high-profile roles including her appointment to the Torres Strait Advisory Board of ATSIC.That’s just to name a few of her achievements.

Mulanjali person Ellen van Neervan is one of the most celebrated writers in the country. Their first book 'Heat and Light' won the David Unaipon Award, the Dobbie Literary Award and the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards Indigenous Writers’ Prize. Most recently, their work 'Personal Score' took home the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award in the Non-Fiction category.Now Ellen is about to debut their first play; ‘swim’.

Henry Augustine is a community broadcaster based in Beagle Bay. To kick off his stint on Word Up, Henry shares a Nyul Nyul word meaning 'I' or 'me', and explains how he came to learn Nyul Nyul. 

Mulanjali person Ellen van Neervan is one of the most celebrated writers in the country. Now they're ready to debut their first play: swim.It follows genderfluid protagonist E and muses on everything from  the sovereignty of water to gender identity and the binding strength of culture and family.Ahead of the show's premier on Gadigal Country, Ellen discusses what it's been like to become a writing apprentice again.

Each year the National NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award is given to someone who’s advocacy has left an indelible mark. This year, Aunty Dulcie Flower AM is being awarded the honour. She’s represented the interests of her community on a national and international level for decades. As Aunty Dulcie prepares to accept the award she reflects on a lifetime of unwavering dedication to activism, advocacy, and community development. 

Join Carina Norman and Jasmine Seymour in the Sydney area where they're working to strengthen the Dharug language. For their final time on Word Up, they share some different ways to farewell someone Dharug Country.

Before colonisation, more than 250 languages were used across Australia. Now, only 40 Indigenous languages are still spoken fluently.Without intervention, that number will continue to drop.Bart Pigram, Vincent McKenzie and Samantha Armstrong sit down to discuss how they’re strengthening language in their communities. 

Bangarra alumna Deborah Brown joined forces with leading Māori choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson have united to create 'The Light Inside' -  a powerful homage to home.It’s the primary piece of Bangarra Dance Theatre’s latest show ‘Horizon’, which is the company’s first mainstage cross-cultural collaboration.

The National Indigenous Art Fair will return to The Rocks on Gadigal land at the end of the month. Works from the Bula'bula weavers and Pupunya’s Western Desert artists will be among more than 50 stalls selling artwork, handmade jewellery, homewares and food from across the country. Pauline Clague and Peter Cooley discuss what makes the fair so impactful for the stallholders who participate in it, and what’s got them excited about in year’s event.

Carina Norman and Jasmine Seymour share the Dharug word for Country, camp or nest.

Until recently, Dharug was considered a sleeping language, but grassroots activists like Carina Norman and Jasmine Seymour have set about having the language taught in schools. Today, they share a Dharug word which means ‘to look’ and discuss the different ways you might use that word.

Ziggy Ramo's latest work, Human? A lie that has been killing us since 1788, attempts to bridge a nation-wide knowledge gap. One he says stems from the lie that 97 per cent of the population of so-called Australia are human, and the rest of us are ‘Indigenous’ - devoid of the same basic rights.He hopes being honest about the past might lead to more productive conversations about the future. 

Until recently, Dharug was considered a sleeping language, but grassroots activists like Corina Norman and Jasmine Seymour have set about having the language taught in schools. Today, they share a Dharug word which means ‘to look’ and discuss the different ways you might use that word.

Today Corina Norman and Jasmine Seymour share a Dharug word that can be used to scold, or to show love.

Violinist and vocalist Eric Avery has shared the stage with artists like Tina Arena, Yo-Yo Ma, and the Black Arm Band.But how have these experiences shaped his composition work?Ahead of his performance at Monash University Performing Arts Centre's 2024 Sundays in the Sound Gallery, Eric shares his artistic journey and performs live in the ABC RN studios.ad of his performance at the 2024 Sundays in the Sound Gallery.

First performed in 1998, Stolen by Jane Harrison follows the story of five members of the Stolen Generation, each navigating a world that has sought to erase their cultural identity. But what does that story say to an audience in 2024?Director Ian Michael is at the helm for the newest production of Stolen. Along with actress Kartanya Maynard and playwright Jane Harrison, he explains why the play is as vitally relevant as the day it premiered.

Today Corina Norman and Jasmine Seymour share a Dharug word that can be used to scold, or to show love.

Head to Dharug Country in the Sydney area to meet Karina Norman and Jasmine Seymour.They share a Dharug greeting.

The Blak arts community recently said goodbye to a pioneer.Celebrate the late, great Destiny Deacon by listening back to her 2004 AWAYE! interview with Tess Allas.

In the 1960s, a Gurindji boy was adopted under government policy by a white English family and taken to live in a remote hamlet in the UK. He spent the rest of his life there – struggling with displacement, identity and isolation until he died in police detention.‘The Other Side of Me’ is a production by NT Dance Company based off 30 letters and poems the man sent home to the Northern Territory.Choreographer Gary Lang talks through the collaboration that brought this show to life, and how he came to know this story.

Electric Fields is the name of the electronic pop and soul duo Michael Ross and Zaachariaha Fielding. Michael Ross says the intention Electric Fields sets is the same now as it was when the duo first spoke to AWAYE! in 2016. 

Head to Dharug Country in the Sydney area to meet Carina Norman and Jasmine Seymour.They share a Dharug greeting.

Head to Dharug Country in the Sydney area to meet Corina Norman and Jasmine Seymour.They share a Dharug greeting.

The conwoman, the sociopathic girl-boss, the apathetic sad woman, and the femme avenger. When it comes to popular culture, we’re in the era of the female anti-hero. Finally, women are allowed to be bad.But in the real world, are some women given more grace than others?

Word Up takes you back Ngemba Country in Far West NSW to meet Phil Sullivan who shares the word he uses to describe his home as well as some thoughts on recognising each other's humanity. 

Stone Motherless Cold and Cerulean are preparing to bring one of their biggest drag productions to life — ECLIPSE.Together they discuss the show, what sets First Nations drag apart and who is the real kween of Naarm.

Phil Sullivan is a Ngemba man from Bourke, and our language legend for this month. He explains the link between language and identity, and share a word he uses to address multiple people at once.

Elena MacDonald is a descendant of the Paredarerme Nation, and the sectary of the Parrdarrama Pungenna Aboriginal CorporationShe and her community have been working to bring greater awareness of the diversity that exists in Aboriginal Tasmania; from language, to place names, to history and culture.

Growing Up Torres Strait Islander in Australia explores the distinct identity of Torres Strait Islanders through their unique stories. Writers Lenora Thacker, Thomas Mayo and Donisha Duff, and the editor of the anthology Samantha Faulkner discuss the process of making Growing Up Torres Strait Islander in Australia, and the stories they contributed. 

Phil Sullivan is our language legend this month.Phil was an Aboriginal heritage offer with the National Parks and Wildlife service for almost three decades. And he’s still doing repatriation and language revitalisation work in his community of Bourke, on Ngemba land. Today, Phil is sharing a Ngemba word he might use to welcome you to his Country.

The word ‘Yirinda’ translates to ‘now’ in Butchulla language. It’s also the name of Fred Leone and Sam Pankhurst’s music project which sets out to capture what Butchulla life looks like right now.Their self-titled debut album is a crucial piece of documentation; re-imagining recordings and stories from across time and bringing them into the present.

Garrmalang festival is returning to Darwin this year to celebrate some of the country’s best First Nations talents. With artists like Electric Fields playing alongside Darwin Symphony Orchestra, the program has an exciting mix of local talent and big names in Blak arts.Garrmalang’s creative director Ben Gratez explains how he's given the festival such a distinct Darwin flavour.

Repatriation, as it applies to cultural heritage, is constantly expanding. You’ve probably heard stories about museums returning human ancestral remains, or secret/sacred objects.But there’s a lot of other material sitting in knowledge institutions, such as images, documents and voice recordings.Returning those materials isn’t as simple as handing back a USB - it's a lot more nuanced.

Join Desert Stars frontman Jay Minning in Tjunjunjana on Spinifex Country for the final time.Today, Jay is sharing a Pitjantjatjara word with a dual meaning.

Jay Minning is the frontman of the country's most remote rock band - the Desert Stars. Today, he shares a Pitjantjatjara word you might use when things don't go to plan. 

In their collection of stories ‘Always Will Be', Dr Mykaela Saunders speculates on what Tweed Heads would look like if it honoured Koori ways of doing. Winner of the 2022 David Unaipon Award, this is a book that's challenging expectations of what First Nations futurism and speculative fiction can be.

Songbird is an intimate play about heartbreak, forgiveness, shared memories and music.It was written by Western Australian playwright Shakara Walley almost 10 years ago, but now Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company is bringing it back.

This week, language legend Jay Minning shares a Pitjantjatjara word that helps keep him grounded.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation has spent years working with remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the country to create books, resources and programs in which First Nations kids can see themselves, their culture and their languages.That work has just been recognised on the world stage, with the charity winning a major international award for children's and young adult literature, worth $725,000.Indigenous Literacy Foundation CEO Ben Bowen shares what the win means. 

Michael Hutchings is the Head of First Nations Programming at Sydney Opera House.From Generations and Dynasties, to Unwrapped, to Vivid Sydney and DanceRites the his plate at the Opera House is incredibly full right now.After a year in the role, Michael discusses how he’s putting his stamp on the Opera House.

Elaine Crombie is a powerhouse performer, and she's putting those skills to use in stand-up comedy.Elaine shares what’s drawn her to stand-up, and how the Aboriginal Comedy Allstars are teaching her to pay-it-forward.

Jay Minning isn’t just the lead singer of Desert Stars, he’s also a passionate advocate of his language — Pitjantjara.For Word Up, Jay takes you to his Country and shares a word that makes him feel good. 

Following the success of Alone Australia's first season the reality show is back, and this time the stakes are even higher.Ten survivalists are taking on the wilderness of Aotearoa/New Zealand, documenting their own isolated battles and striving to be the last person standing to win $250,000.Executive producer Riima Daher and cast member Jason Allwood explain how the this latest season conveys a custodial relationship with land and rethinks connections with community.Watch Alone Australia on SBS every Wednesday at 7.30pm, or catch up on SBS On Demand from 8.30pm.

With songs about the hunter-gatherer life, surviving British atomic testing, and a profound connection to culture that spans back 2,000 generations – Desert Stars are a band with a lot to say.Lead guitarist Derek Coleman, drummer Ashley Franks, frontman Jay Minning and bass guitarist Justin Currie discuss what inspires them as musicians, and play live in the ABC RN studios on Gadigal Country.

Phil Sullivan explains how he became an Aboriginal heritage officer for the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and shares a Ngemba word he uses to greet people.

In 2022, the bush food industry was worth around $80 million, and that figure is expected to double by next year.But as the popularity of native foods surges who is actually benefiting?Three people try to answer these questions, each incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to native foods.

Che Kelly is a Miriwoong man and he’s been Word Up's language legend for the past month, sharing his knowledge and his passion for his language.But what you probably don’t know about Che is that he’s got spectacular hair.So that’s Mirriwoong word he’s sharing this week: 'hair'. 

Che is our language legend on Awaye this month.He’s been learning and teaching Miriwoong at his local language centre in Kununurra - Mirima Dawang Woorlab-Gerring.This week, Che explains why he loves rainbows.

For author Julie Janson, the arts have always been a form of protest for seeking recognition and justice.Her latest novel, Compassion, isn’t just a retelling of frontier history from a First Nations female perspective: it’s also inspired by the life of her own great-great grandmother, Mary Thomas. Like Julie’s protagonist Nell James, Mary was a horse thief in the 1800s.She’s also so much more.

Jay Wymarra is a comic, a drag queen, and self-proclaimed Black nerd, and they're about to take his new show AmaJayus to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.Part comedy, part ghost story, it follows the conflicts and fashion choices of a queer black boy who cannot be put in a box.Jay explains how their comedy has evolved through the years and the freedom that comes with being mediocre.

Blak & Bright First Nations Literary Festival embraces the diversity of Blakfulla expression, from oral storytelling to epic novels and plays to poetry.It’s something festival director Jane Harrison is passionate about. As a multi-disciplinary writer herself, Jane believes in growing the ecology of Blak writing.

Che Kelly is our language legend this month.He's learning and teaching Miriwoong at Mirima Dawang Woorlab-gerring - the —local language centre in Kununurra.Last week, Che asked you to look up to the skies. This week, he wants you to look straight down at your feet.

Set within the era of Adam Goodes’s war cry – and named for the number he immortalised – Nathan Maynard's new play ‘37’ is a reminder that it matters where you stand.With the show currently on at Melbourne Theatre Company, director Isaac Drandic talks through the process of bringing football to the stage.

Chey Kelly in Kununarra is our language legend this month.Last week, Chey told you a little about his nan and shared the Mirriwong word that means ‘to look around’.Now he’s sharing a different Mirriwong word: one that’ll lift your eyes to the skies.

Crystal Love Johnson is an artist, a performer, an activist, an educator and a mentor. As a Sistergirl elder – the word often used for First Nations trans women – she’s seen and done pretty much everything.Her art collective Yangamini, which consists of trans and non-binary artists, is taking part in the Sydney Biennale.Together, the collective strengthens gender-fluid bush knowledge and challenges sexual repression, racialised governance, and mining extractions in the settler Northern Territory, to name a few things.

Trawlwoolway and Wiradjuri artist Canisha is a soulful singer with an edge.Last year, she performed alongside the likes of Kobie Dee, Briggs and Chasing Ghost. You might’ve seen her at St Kilda Music Festival or Treaty Day Out this year.Her debut EP is called 'Don’t Be Scared' and proves Canisha is not afraid to be lyrically vulnerable…. Or to lean into a sincere love of pop music.She'll some of the stories that defined the EP, and perform live from Awaye's studio.

Australian Dance Theatre is the oldest dance company in the country — next year they’ll celebrate their 60th year.And their new show Marrow is choreographic course correction for a nation searching for a new direction.With the show set for its world premiere at Adelaide Festival in just a few days, artistic director and Wiradjuri man Daniel Riley explains what message he hopes people can take from this new work.

In 1994, Boomalli Aboriginal Artist Co-operative received a letter proposing an exhibition during that years’ Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras event.The aim was to showcase images and works from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans or Queer.The exhibition was also an opportunity to awareness of the issues being faced by that community.These artists were a minority, within a minority and their artistic expression would create a completely unique exhibition.It’s been thirty years since Looking Good opened at Boomalli, featuring the work of established an emerging Queer Black artists.Please note: This story contains the names of people who have died.

Chey Kelly is a Mirriwong man from Kununarra in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.There he's been learning and teaching his language, as part of a language nest at Mirima Dawang Woorlab-gerring.For Word Up this week, Chey introduces you to his Country and shares a commonly used word.

Thomas Weatherall's Blue is not a typical coming of age story, and when it debuted at Sydney Festival last year it was a stand-out.Now it’s gone to Adelaide on Kaurna Country and been entrusted to new hands — Callan Purcell.Callan discusses how he's making the show his own.

Tamara Pearson is a choreographer, artist and mentor from Hope Vale in far north Queensland.For the past three weeks, she’s shared Guugu Yimithirr words we can imagine as three legs of a stool.Today, she explains how her previous words bama, guugu and bubu relate to each other, as well as share a word that means ‘to reciprocate’.

A little over a year ago, the Labor government launched their National Cultural Policy - Revive. The first pillar of Revive is called First Nations First, and (amongst other things) it sets out to embed more creative autonomy in First Nations creative industries, build capacity for artists, and allow First Nations ways of thinking and doing to shape what is consider valuable in the art world.One year on, what have we seen and what have we learnt?

Tamara Pearson is a choreographer and mentor from Hope Vale in far north Queensland, and our language legend this month.For the past couple of weeks, she’s been sharing Guugu Yimithirr words that connect to each other: the words for people and language.Today, she’s sharing her third word – a word meaning ‘land’.

Archie Moore knew he wanted to call his Venice Biennale show kith and kin from the very beginning. In simple terms, it means ‘friends and family’ but in reality, the title draws from their Old English usage.

The weight of colonisation often feels almost impossible to dismantle.It’s a burden that can affect the way we interpret the things around us; like climate disasters, to our own sense of self, like who we love and how.Kirli Saunders explores all this and more in her stunning book of art and poems, Returning.

The weight of colonisation often feels almost impossible to dismantle.It’s a burden that can affect the way we interpret the things around us; like climate disasters, to our own sense of self, like who we love and how.Kirli Saunders explores all this and more in her stunning book of art and poems, Returning.

Even though it's an original story, returning Waru to Country is a significant part of Bangarra’s creative cycle.Elma Kris, Jenson Waru Sam and Frances Rings discuss the significance of bringing the story to the Waiben, Thursday Island where it was performed in Kriol on Country for the first time.

Ngiyampaa artist Pirritu makes gentle, heartfelt music that invites you into the depths of his personal journey.He shares the importance of language in his artistic practice, and how competitive triathlons brought him to music. 

Tamara Pearson is an artist, choreographer and mentor from Hope Vale on Guugu Yimithirr Country in far north Queensland. She explains how she uses dance to teach language, and why it’s important to tell stories through movement. 

Marungka Tjalatjunu (Dipped in Black) is a short film by Yankunytjatjara artist Derik Lynch and filmmaker Matthew Thorne.It’s a story of Derik’s homecoming and spiritual healing..One that immerses you in his life as a queer Angangu, and uses Inma — a traditional form of storytelling that incorporates the visual, verbal and physical. Derik and Matthew talk through their collaboration, and how they came to work together.

Tamara Pearson is an artist, choreographer and mentor from Hope Vale on Guugu Yimithirr Country in far north Queensland.As well as running a dance company, Sacred Creations Dance, Tamara has been working with the local language centre to keep Guugu Yimidhirr language strong.Today, she’s sharing the word for ‘people’.

From bean-like seed pods to the rib cage of an emu, Emily Kam Kngwarray drew inspiration from her Country and became an exceptionally prolific and commercially successful artist.The Emily Kam Kngwarray exhibition brings together public and private collections from around the world; showcasing her most breathtaking artworks and the way her practice developed over time. It also sets out to correct the record, and in doing so, embed the old lady back in her Country. 

Merrkiyawuy Ganambarr-Stubbs is an educator, a writer and an important voice for Yolngu in north-east Arnhem Land.She's sharing a word she likes to teach her students at Yirrkala School.

Merrkiyawuy Ganambarr-Stubbs is an educator, a writer and an important voice for Yolngu in north-east Arnhem Land.Merrki has chosen a word that means 'two waters coming together'. For her, the word holds a deeper meaning. 

You'll head to Yirrkala in north east Arnhem Land with Merrki Gunabarr-Stubbs. This week, she shares a Yolngu Matha word that's like a gift.

This is the story of From Little Things, Big Things Grow. It’s also a story of something much more.What started as a casually recorded folk song has become an anthem of the land rights movement.You'll head to Kumbuwal Country to visit Kev Carmody, who co-wrote From Little Things Big Things Grow. You'll also hear from some of the people who've breathed new life into the song over the years. 

How do you hold your culture, your cultural identity? Dancer and mover Ghenoa Gela has been asking herself these questions as a Torres Strait Islander woman, born and raised on mainland Australia. The result is GURR ERA OP, which will see Ghenoa return to Sydney Festival for the first time since her 2018 one-woman show My Urrway.Find details for the Sydney Festival show here.

Warumpi Band helped pave the way for Aboriginal rock music and became icons in the process. You’ll hear from co-director Anyupa Butcher, and playwright Andrea James who’ll bring Warrumpi Band’s story to the stage.

Set in 1965, Women and Children follows Joe Cluny – a young Catholic boy who can’t seem to stay out of trouble with the nuns at school. When his Aunt Oona knocks on the door one night, distressed and needing somewhere to stay, Joe realises the women in his family carry secrets, including on their bodies.But Women and Children isn’t just about family violence - it’s a story filled with love and tenderness.

Royston Noell makes a triumphant return to Awaye.Australian Idol — which introduced the country to Casey Donovan in 2004 and Jessica Mauboy in 2006 — was rebooted this year.And in 2023, Royston followed in their footsteps.He speaks on his year as the 2023 Australian Idol winner and shares his new song, Dreaming.

Merrkiyawuy Ganambarr-Stubbs is an educator, a writer and an important voice for Yolngu in north-east Arnhem Land.For Word Up this month, Merrki takes you to Yirrkala to share some of her language, Yolngu Matha.This week she’s chosen a word that  literally means footprint in Yolngu Matha but itexplains the connection Yolngu have to their Country.

As AusMusic Month comes to a close Karla Ranby explains how a Gomeroi girl from Moree found herself working at the national youth broadcaster.

This week Wimiya Woodley shares the Yindjibarndi word for ‘country’.

Dr Shellie Morris is known for her dedication to mentorship, her community work and for creating rich, cultural music.And this week Shellie was one of two people to be honoured in the Legend category at the Northern Territory Performing Arts Award.Ahead of the announcement Shellie discussed how music, language, and community impact each other in her work.

A lot of artists get their start in youth programs and community organisations. They can become launching pads where up and comers thrive.This is a big part of Gomeroi/ Wodi Wodi rapper Kobie Dee’s journey – both as someone who came up in those spaces, and as someone who’s built a career around giving back.

Wimiya Woodley shares the Yindjibarndi word for his totem - the echidna. 

Based in Naarm/Melbourne, A Daylight Connection is the creative project of Kamarra Bell-Wykes and Carly Sheppard.Their work - which spills across almost all creative and design roles of performance – is boundary pushing and unique.As Kamarra and Carly prepare to bring a double bill of Whose Gonna Love Em and Chase to Malthouse Theatre, they sit down to talk through the joy of being weird.

Miles Franklin Award-winning author Melissa Lucashenko's latest book is a story about 'what ifs' and potentiality.It's two stories, set centuries apart, and between them lies the idea that Australia could have been colonised differently. Melissa reflects on how she delved into dualities for her first historical novel.

Yindjibarndi actor and dancer Wimiya Woodley is our language champion this month. This week, Wimiya is sharing the name of an important Elder from his community.

Mr Rhodes is the moniker of producer Blake Rhodes. He’s a mentor and a prolific collaborator who uses his expertise to bring the stories of other artists to life. Blake composed the music for the theatre production of ‘Flow’, which he’ll show with Mitch King in MacLean and Lismore later this month. He talks through Flow, the Northern Rivers Creative communities, and where his passion for collaboration comes from.

Leah Purcell is one of Australia’s leading actors, writers and directors. Whether you know her from the stage, the screen, or even literature, Leah is someone who can blend truth telling with great storytelling. Her latest work, Is That You, Ruthie?, and is based on the memoirs of Aunty Ruth Hegarty. Born in Queensland in 1929 when Indigenous people had few rights Aunty Ruth has lived a big life. Removed from her mother at just four years old, forced to work as a domestic servant at 14 years old, she was a founding member of Koobara Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Resource Centre, was awarded the Premier's Awards for Queensland Seniors for outstanding service to the community, and of course is the author of several books. Leah speaks on turning Aunty Ruth’s story into a play.

Exploring interwoven stories of land, water, and sky, Miwatj Yolŋu - Sunrise People presents the work of 13 senior and emerging Yolŋu artists from across the Yirrkala Community in East Arnhem Land. The show opened last week on Yuin Country at Bundanon Art Museum where — like at Yirrkala — freshwater meets salt. Ishmael Marika and Merrkiyawuy Ganambarr-Stubbs speak on how these Yolŋu artists have developed their artistic practice.

Yindjibarndi Country is in the Pilbara region of Western Austrlia. Dancer and actor Wimiya Woodley is a Yindjibarndi man and our language champion for November. To kick things off, Wimiya shares a word connected to the Yindjibardi concept of sharing.

Hosted by Queensland Performing Arts Centre in Meanjin/ Brisbane, Clancestry Festival celebrates First Nations art and culture through concerts, workshops and conversations.  As Clancestry prepares to mark its 10th year, QPAC head of First Nations programming Bradley Chatfield shares how he and his teams are presenting the work of emerging and acclaimed performing artists and cultural practitioners. 

'Winhanganha' is a Wiradjuri word that loosely translates to 'remember, know, think'. It's also the name Jazz Money has chosen for her poetic film that draws on the First Nations collection in the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.  Jazz wanted to re-imagine Australian audiovisual history - one that centralises dance, performance, gathering and protest. 

Nina Korbe is an award-winning Koa, Kuku Yalanji, Wakka Wakka soprano. She shares how she's been working with QLD Youth Orchestra QLD Symphony Orchestra to create pathways for kids to enter opera, and breathe new life into the genre.

Emma Donovan is reinventing herself and her style all over again. Off the back of releasing her last single 'Blak Nation', Emma talks though her musical evolution, her heroes and three simple chords.

Tanarthi Art Festival has opened on Kaurna Yerta to celebrate contemporary Indigenous art, and artists.  The biennial festival features everything from traditional paintings to large installations, showcasing the multidimensional nature of Aboriginal art. Artistic director Nici Cumpston, along with artists Elizabeth Close and Alfred Lowe discuss the 2023 showcase that draws inspiration from the festival name itself.

ICTV journalist and translator Damien Williams shares a Western Arrernte word with a German influence.

Western Arrernte man Damien Williams is an ICTV journalist and language worker.  This week, he shares where he lives, and the western Arrernte word for 'home'.

Vincent Namatjira explains how he chooses the figures for his portraits. They range in tone from witty satire to sincere homage.

Alison Page and Paul Memmott discuss the relationship between Country and man-made objects. 

Reporter and translator Damien Williams shares a very important western Arrernte word — 'water'.

Curator, artist and friend of the late Esme Timbery, Tess Allas explains where her shellwork sits within the broader scope of First Nations art.

Anindilyakwa singer-songwriter Emily Wurramara's musical journey has taken her a long way from home.  A lot has changed since she first joined us on Awaye in 2016. She's toured her music around the country and abroad, her debut album Milyakburra was nominated for an ARIA, and she’s won SIX Queensland Music Awards as well as an AMP Tomorrow Maker award. Most recently, Emily won a Live Music Award and travelled to Aotearoa New Zealand for a songwriting fellowship.

For the first time in more than 50 years, the entire country is set to vote on a decision that could dictate how Indigenous affairs are handled.

Arrernte man Damien Williams is a journalist and language worker at Indigenous Community Television. In his role at ICTV, Damien uses his language skills to bring the news of the day to his community. This month Damien will share his language skills and knowledge with Word Up.

Melanie Saward is Bigambul and Wakka Wakka writer, editor and university lecturer based in Tulmur, Ipswich. She’s also a debut author and one of three recipients of Queensland Literary Awards’ writers fellowships. Through the fellowship Melanie will receive $15, 000 plus professional development support for her upcoming project 'The Next Chapter'. Melanie explains what this support means for her as an early career writer.

Trinity Clarke shares an eastern Kuku Yalanji word that means 'leaf'.

The MAKE Award is a new biennial design prize honouring Innovation in Australian Craft and Design. One of the finalists of the award was Carly Dodd. She's a Kaurna, Narrunga and Ngarrindjerri weaver and the First Nations engagement co-ordinator and assistant curator at The Jam Factory in Adelaide. Carly's weaving work is called Aunty’s Bag and is a colourful handbag made of woven metallic ribbons and raffia. She explains why she was drawn to weaving as an artform and how Aunty's Bag honours some important women in her life.

As Moogahlin Performing Arts' Yellamundie Festival marks it’s tenth year, Moogahlin's co-founder and artistic director Lily Shearer and playwright Maurial Spearim discuss the role the festival plays in the ecology of Black theatre.

Trinity Clarke shares a word from the eastern dialect of Kuku Yalanji that means ‘heart sore’.

Cheryl Davison founded the Djinama Yilaga choir with a simple goal – to sing covers of popular songs and hymns with her community.

The Visitors sees seven representatives gathering at Warrane in January 1788 to discuss the mari nowee on the horizon — should they welcome these visitors or send them away? Written by Murawuri woman Jane Harrison The Visitors began as a play. Now, Jane has also adapted the story as a novel and an opera. Jane, along with director Wesley Enoch and composer Christopher Sainsbury discuss how they've worked to tell this story three different ways.

Trinity Clarke shares a word that means 'your spirit, your essence' as well as 'to like' and 'to love' in the eastern dialect of Kuku Yalanji.

In 2018, Corey Tutt founded Deadly Science, a not-for-profit that works with schools and communities to provide STEM resources for Indigenous kids. Now, Corey's thinking about the next steps for himself and Deadly Science.

Blaque Showgirls is Nakkiah Lui's smart-alec, sparkly spoof of the 1995 camp classic Showgirls has returned to the stage. Together with co-directors Shari Sebbens and Ursula Yovich, Nakkiah discusses how the show was developed and what it's been like to refresh it for a new production.

The Journey Down is a performance centred around a percussive sculpture of a rusty ute named Warnarral Ngoorrngoorrool. Tos Mahoney and Chris Griffith are two of the people instrumental in bringing Warnarral Ngoorrngoorrool and the accompanying Wangga to communities on the coast of WA.

Hailing from Maningrida in Arnhem Land, The Ripple Effect Band is an all-girl saltwater rock group forging new ground. Band mates Tara Rostron, Jolene  Lawrence and Jodie Kell discuss how the band has developed over the years and what impact they’re having on their community.

Trinity Clarke is a Young Language Chamption with First Languages Australia, and Word Up''s language legend this month. This week she explains that the Kuku Yanlanji word that means 'to speak', or 'language of a place' is shared across several neighbouring language groups.

Susie Anderson’s poetry captures profound meaning in moments that often slip through the cracks.

The Stiff Gins hardly need an introduction — their music speaks for them. For twenty years Nardi Simpson and Kaleen Briggs have been writing and performing together in a style they describe as "acoustic with harmonies". As they look back over their career they reflect on how they've grown creatively and personally.

Ever Present: First Peoples Art of Australia celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and artist from across Australia. With historical and contemporary works from the National Gallery of Australia’s collection and Wesfarmers Collection of Australian Art – the exhibition showcases the innovation, the complexities and the skillfulness of First Nations artists. Ever Present opened at the Art Gallery of Western Australia in December 2021, and then went on to the National Gallery of Singapore in May 2022 before arriving in Auckland Art Gallery in Aotearoa.

Plant knowledge holder, artist and health worker David Doyle shares the Barkindji name for quandong.

Barkindji plant knowledge holder, artist and health worker David Doyle shares a word that means 'many waters'.

Gyak, also known as the northern corrobboree frog, holds special significance for Wulgalu people but is in need of protection from the threat of an introduced fungus. In honour of National Science Week, Shane Herrington and Susanna Boyd explain how they've been taking part in a cultural and community focused approach to conservation.

To celebrate the release of her third album Head Noise,  Tia Gostelow explains what brought her back to her roots.

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAAs) is a cornerstone of the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. For 40 years the NATSIAAs have celebrated the remarkable skill of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Australia. Major prize winner Keith Wikmunea, along with Brenda L. Croft who won the art on paper category, and Anne Nginyangka Thompson who's ceramic artwork saw her take home the Wandjuk Marika Memorial 3D Award, discuss the creativity and cultural expression behind their works.

don’t ask what the bird look like by Hannah Belanszky is a new play that grapples with finding identity though cultural reconnection. And although Hannah says this isn’t an autobiographical story, it is one inspired by her own journey of cultural discovery. Ahead of its world premiere at Brisbane Festival, Hannah and Queensland Theatre's Artistic Elder, Aunty Roxanne McDonald discuss how they're bringing the play to life.

David Doyle is a plant knowledge holder, an artist and a health worker living in Broken Hill, and this week we head back to Barkindji Country to learn the word for a very special person.

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAAs) is a cornerstone of the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. For 40 years the NATSIAAs have celebrated the remarkable skill of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists from across Australia. Major prize winner Keith Wikmunea, along with Brenda L. Croft who won the art on paper category, and Anne Nginyangka Thompson who's ceramic artwork saw her take home the Wandjuk Marika Memorial 3D Award, discuss the creativity and cultural expression behind their works.

don’t ask what the bird look like by Hannah Belanszky is a new play that grapples with finding identity though cultural reconnection. And although Hannah says this isn’t an autobiographical story, it is one inspired by her own journey of cultural discovery. Ahead of its world premiere at Brisbane Festival, Hannah and Queensland Theatre's Artistic Elder, Aunty Roxanne McDonald discuss how they're bringing the play to life.

David Doyle is a plant knowledge holder, an artist and a health worker living in Broken Hill, and this week we head back to Barkindji Country to learn the word for a very special person.

Lisa Sorbie Martin is one of the many local artists featured at BLEACH* — a contemporary arts festival on the Gold Coast that is now in it's 12th year. Lisa discusses her art making and the importance of festivals like BLEAH*.

David Doyle is a  Barkindji/Malyangapa artist, plant knowledge holder and health worker. For Word Up he shares the Barkindji name for Murray Cod.

Bundjalung Nghari - Indigenise will bring together four writers with stories from across the Bundjalung Nation — each presenting a theatrical reading in front of live audiences as part of a partnership between Northern Rivers Performing Arts and the Byron Bay Writers Festival. Rhoda and writer Kirk talk about how Bundjalung Nghari has grown since it began in 2022.

William Barton is set to become the first Indigenous person to receive the Richard Gill Award for Distinguished Services to Australian Music, which recognises musicians who have had a profound impact on the Australian music scene. At 42, he's also the youngest person to receive this award but whichever way you read it, the Kalkadunga man has spent a lifetime honing his craft. William discusses the significance of this award and how he's seen the western classical cannon embrace traditional music.

Lisa Sorbie Martin is one of the many local artists featured at BLEACH* — a contemporary arts festival on the Gold Coast that is now in it's 12th year. Lisa discusses her art making and the importance of festivals like BLEAH*.

David Doyle is a  Barkindji/Malyangapa artist, plant knowledge holder and health worker. For Word Up he shares the Barkindji name for Murray Cod.

William Barton is set to become the first Indigenous person to receive the Richard Gill Award for Distinguished Services to Australian Music, which recognises musicians who have had a profound impact on the Australian music scene. At 42, he's also the youngest person to receive this award but whichever way you read it, the Kalkadunga man has spent a lifetime honing his craft. William discusses the significance of this award and how he's seen the western classical cannon embrace traditional music.

Bundjalung Nghari - Indigenise will bring together four writers with stories from across the Bundjalung Nation — each presenting a theatrical reading in front of live audiences as part of a partnership between Northern Rivers Performing Arts and the Byron Bay Writers Festival. Rhoda and writer Kirk talk about how Bundjalung Nghari has grown since it began in 2022.

While touring with Karul Projects — the dance company he co-founded —Thomas ES Kelly occasionally find himself in places so deeply impacted by colonial violence that a Welcome to Country wasn’t possible. Places where the local mob didn’t “publicly” survive colonisation and it got him thinking — when this happens, who sings them on to their ancestors?

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the proppaNOW artist collective. Made up of a diverse group of contemporary Aboriginal artists the collective has been at the forefront of an art movement that explores the politics of Aboriginal art and culture. Tony Albert, Megan Cope, Gordon Hookey, along with new members Lily Eather and Warraba Weatherall  were in conversation with Dr Stephen Gilchris at the National Art School to discuss the need for critical thinking and the expansion of Indigenous knowledge across the globe. **You can hear the full panel recording on the National Art School website**

Kylie Bracknell shares the Noongar word for 'older brother'.

Kylie Bracknell shares the Noongar word for 'older brother'.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the proppaNOW artist collective. Made up of a diverse group of contemporary Aboriginal artists the collective has been at the forefront of an art movement that explores the politics of Aboriginal art and culture. Tony Albert, Megan Cope, Gordon Hookey, along with new members Lily Eather and Warraba Weatherall  were in conversation with Dr Stephen Gilchris at the National Art School to discuss the need for critical thinking and the expansion of Indigenous knowledge across the globe. **You can hear the full panel recording on the National Art School website**

While touring with Karul Projects — the dance company he co-founded —Thomas ES Kelly occasionally find himself in places so deeply impacted by colonial violence that a Welcome to Country wasn’t possible. Places where the local mob didn’t “publicly” survive colonisation and it got him thinking — when this happens, who sings them on to their ancestors?

Each year Cairns Indigenous Art Fair showcases art by contemporary Indigenous Australian artists from all over Far North Queensland, this year themed ‘Weaving our Future: Claiming our Sovereignty’,

Since it was first published almost ten years ago, Bruce Pascoe’s Dark Emu reframed the colonial lens through which Australia understood Indigenous history. It also became the flashpoint in a culture war, and in new documentary The Dark Emu Story Bruce reflects on getting caught in the fight.

Word Up boomerang Kylie Bracknell shares some more Noongar language that means something special to her, and this week we learn a Noongar word that refers to someone of renown, a personal hero.

Wiradjuri composer and sound artist Naretha Williams started working on her new album in early 2021 as part of an arts residency at the Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio during lockdown. Then she found that she had a work that spoke to the insurmountable distance and endless unknowns - Into Dusk We Fall.

Each year Cairns Indigenous Art Fair showcases art by contemporary Indigenous Australian artists from all over Far North Queensland, this year themed ‘Weaving our Future: Claiming our Sovereignty’,

Wiradjuri composer and sound artist Naretha Williams started working on her new album in early 2021 as part of an arts residency at the Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio during lockdown. Then she found that she had a work that spoke to the insurmountable distance and endless unknowns - Into Dusk We Fall.

Word Up boomerang Kylie Bracknell shares some more Noongar language that means something special to her, and this week we learn a Noongar word that refers to someone of renown, a personal hero.

Since it was first published almost ten years ago, Bruce Pascoe’s Dark Emu reframed the colonial lens through which Australia understood Indigenous history. It also became the flashpoint in a culture war, and in new documentary The Dark Emu Story Bruce reflects on getting caught in the fight.

Writer, actor and language champion Kylie Bracknell returns to reflect on a Noongar word for "watching together".

11-year-old Noongar Wongi rapper Inkabee and his dad Flewent discuss how they've been balancing school and music, and what drives the young rapper to write.

A late night phone call from her uncle sent Bundjalung woman Shauna Bostock on a journey to uncover her family history. The result is a book, Reaching Through Time, which reveals the cataclysmic impact of colonisation on Aboriginal families, and how this ripples through to the present.  Shauna Bostock explains why she wanted to share her story and what she hopes people can take from it.

Phil Breslin has been meeting weapon makers and science experts to lift the lid on the genius of Australia's oldest and most innovative weapons. With the premier of First Weapons, Phil shares what he's learnt along the way, and what educators and entertainers have in common.

Writer, actor and language champion Kylie Bracknell returns to reflect on a Noongar word for "watching together".

Phil Breslin has been meeting weapon makers and science experts to lift the lid on the genius of Australia's oldest and most innovative weapons. With the premier of First Weapons, Phil shares what he's learnt along the way, and what educators and entertainers have in common.

A late night phone call from her uncle sent Bundjalung woman Shauna Bostock on a journey to uncover her family history. The result is a book, Reaching Through Time, which reveals the cataclysmic impact of colonisation on Aboriginal families, and how this ripples through to the present.  Shauna Bostock explains why she wanted to share her story and what she hopes people can take from it.

11-year-old Noongar Wongi rapper Inkabee and his dad Flewent discuss how they've been balancing school and music, and what drives the young rapper to write.

Kylie Bracknell is a fierce Noongar language advocate and long-time friend of Word Up. This week, Kylie returns to share a very special Noongar compound word celebrating song and dance.

As Dharug man Billy Bain surfs his way from Gadigal Country to Bundjalung Country, he delves into frontier injustices and the ways in which saltwater mob continue their culture for ABC TV's Changing Tides.

As Dharug man Billy Bain surfs his way from Gadigal Country to Bundjalung Country, he delves into frontier injustices and the ways in which saltwater mob continue their culture for ABC TV's Changing Tides.

Kylie Bracknell is a fierce Noongar language advocate and long-time friend of Word Up. This week, Kylie returns to share a very special Noongar compound word celebrating song and dance.

Bundjalung composer Grayson Rotumah has been an advocate of First Nations music for more than 30 years. For him dance, song and atmospheric orchestral interludes are all tools for cultural survival. His latest work is called Creation and will premier on July 14 at the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra's home, Grainger Studio. As Grayson prepares to bring Creation to life, he reflected on its creative journey.

William Tilmouth is an East Arrente man and the founding chair of Childrens Ground. Ahead of the National NAIDOC Week Awards, where William has been nominated for Male Elder of the Year, he discusses what drives him.

David Doyle is an artist, an advocate for the Barkaa – also known as the Darling River – and plant knowledge holder. When he thinks about this year’s NAIDOC Week theme of For Our Elders one of the people that comes to mind is Uncle Badger Bates

Kylie Bracknell is a Noongar woman and language champion. In 2016 Kylie was Word Up’s inaugural guest. Now, she returns to share a Noongar word that has a special significance — ‘ancestor’.

Now in its fourth year, the National Indigenous Art Fair will take over the Overseas Passenger Terminal on Saturday 1 to Sunday 2 July. The art fair brings together remote and regional art centres and artists for a weekend of talks, demonstrations, performances and a huge ethical marketplace. Maxine Charlie is one of the artists who has travelled from Broome in Yawuru Country to Gadigal Country to take part in the festivities. As Maxine prepares to show her work, she explains what brought her to the National Indigenous Art Fair this year.

William Tilmouth is an East Arrente man and the founding chair of Childrens Ground. Ahead of the National NAIDOC Week Awards, where William has been nominated for Male Elder of the Year, he discusses what drives him.

Kylie Bracknell is a Noongar woman and language champion. In 2016 Kylie was Word Up’s inaugural guest. Now, she returns to share a Noongar word that has a special significance — ‘ancestor’.

David Doyle is an artist, an advocate for the Barkaa – also known as the Darling River – and plant knowledge holder. When he thinks about this year’s NAIDOC Week theme of For Our Elders one of the people that comes to mind is Uncle Badger Bates

Now in its fourth year, the National Indigenous Art Fair will take over the Overseas Passenger Terminal on Saturday 1 to Sunday 2 July. The art fair brings together remote and regional art centres and artists for a weekend of talks, demonstrations, performances and a huge ethical marketplace. Maxine Charlie is one of the artists who has travelled from Broome in Yawuru Country to Gadigal Country to take part in the festivities. As Maxine prepares to show her work, she explains what brought her to the National Indigenous Art Fair this year.

Arrente and Kalkadoon woman Rachel Perkins is an exceptionally accomplished writer, director, and producer. She’s also a respected educator, leader, and mentor. For Rachel, this year’s NAIDOC Week theme “For Our Elders” brings to mind a trailblazer of First Nations media… Alfreda Glynn.

Kaurna artist James Tylor explains why he loves using his mob’s word for ‘deadly’.

Zena Cumpston and David Doyle are two Barkandji artists and thinkers whose work share a common thread of Country and the reciprocal relationship that exists between us. Recorded live at the Australia Museum for Vivid Sydney, Zena Cumpston and David Doyle discuss their connection to country and how it impacts their work.

Kaurna artist James Tylor explains why he loves using his mob’s word for ‘deadly’.

Arrente and Kalkadoon woman Rachel Perkins is an exceptionally accomplished writer, director, and producer. She’s also a respected educator, leader, and mentor. For Rachel, this year’s NAIDOC Week theme “For Our Elders” brings to mind a trailblazer of First Nations media… Alfreda Glynn.

Zena Cumpston and David Doyle are two Barkandji artists and thinkers whose work share a common thread of Country and the reciprocal relationship that exists between us. Recorded live at the Australia Museum for Vivid Sydney, Zena Cumpston and David Doyle discuss their connection to country and how it impacts their work.

Whem Dr Anita Heiss reflects on this year's NAIDOC Week theme "For Our Elders" literary trailblazer Aunty Ruby Langford Gibini comes to mind.

Kamilaroi writer Jacob K Gallagher, and Bundjalung/Gumbayngirr poet Dakota Feirer have each been named this year's black&write! fellowship recipients. They discuss their respective unpublished manuscripts, and what it means to contribute to the growing community of First Nations writers.

This week, artist James Tylor returns to share another piece of Kaurna language. It's a compound word, a combination of the Kaurna words for water (kauwi) and brushtail possum (pirlta) — kauwirlta.

This week, artist James Tylor returns to share another piece of Kaurna language. It's a compound word, a combination of the Kaurna words for water (kauwi) and brushtail possum (pirlta) — kauwirlta.

Kamilaroi writer Jacob K Gallagher, and Bundjalung/Gumbayngirr poet Dakota Feirer have each been named this year's black&write! fellowship recipients. They discuss their respective unpublished manuscripts, and what it means to contribute to the growing community of First Nations writers.

Whem Dr Anita Heiss reflects on this year's NAIDOC Week theme "For Our Elders" literary trailblazer Aunty Ruby Langford Gibini comes to mind.

Multi-disciplinary artist James Tylor returns to share his one of his favourite words from Kaurna language. It's a word that describes the action of reflecting on something you’ve learnt — payanthi.

Dancer and a choreographer Sani Townson reflects on two of his elders that have influenced his creative path and what they’ve taught him about eldership. 

Gillian Moody talks Kindred, the documentary she made with her long time friend and collaborator Adrian Russell Wills that premiers at Sydney Film Festival.

Yuldea in the Great Victorian Desert,  is a site with many layers of historical and cultural significance, and for Frances Rings it holds personal significance too. That's why Yuldea is the subject of Frances' first full-length choreographic work now that she's taken on the role of artistic director at Bangarra Dance Theatre, She discusses how the work came together, and the importance of creative collaboration.

Dancer and a choreographer Sani Townson reflects on two of his elders that have influenced his creative path and what they’ve taught him about eldership. 

Gillian Moody talks Kindred, the documentary she made with her long time friend and collaborator Adrian Russell Wills that premiers at Sydney Film Festival.

Multi-disciplinary artist James Tylor returns to share his one of his favourite words from Kaurna language. It's a word that describes the action of reflecting on something you’ve learnt — payanthi.

Yuldea in the Great Victorian Desert,  is a site with many layers of historical and cultural significance, and for Frances Rings it holds personal significance too. That's why Yuldea is the subject of Frances' first full-length choreographic work now that she's taken on the role of artistic director at Bangarra Dance Theatre, She discusses how the work came together, and the importance of creative collaboration.

James Tylor is a disciplinary artist with a passion for Kaurna language. For Word Up this week, James shares a Kaurna word that means to prepare your mind for a challenge…

Fred Leone is a Buchella songman with a passion for language revitalisation. But when he reflects on the path he walks there are many Elders and cultural leaders who paved the way. Today, in honour of this year's NAIDOC theme "For Our Elders" Fred reflects on one of those people — Aunty Joyce Bonner.

Uncle Kutcha Edwards has been blending song writing and activism for over 30 years now. To him, it’s like dropping a pebble in the water and allowing the act to create ever expanding ripples. And that's exactly what he intends to do at his upcoming show at Melbouren's Rising Festival — Waripa. It means 'ceremony' in Mutti Mutti and Uncle Kutcha says Waripa is as much a contemporary ceremony as it is an opportunity to hear some of the best Black musicians.

When it comes to Film Festivals, St Kilda Film Festival offers something a little different. It’s Australia’s longest running short film festival and with over 100 films this year. Fred Gesha is the First Nations Arts Festivals and Events Officer. As the festival kicks off, Fred discusses the programmed for this year and how his music background has influenced the way he thinks about programming.

Uncle Kutcha Edwards has been blending song writing and activism for over 30 years now. To him, it’s like dropping a pebble in the water and allowing the act to create ever expanding ripples. And that's exactly what he intends to do at his upcoming show at Melbouren's Rising Festival — Waripa. It means 'ceremony' in Mutti Mutti and Uncle Kutcha says Waripa is as much a contemporary ceremony as it is an opportunity to hear some of the best Black musicians.

James Tylor is a disciplinary artist with a passion for Kaurna language. For Word Up this week, James shares a Kaurna word that means to prepare your mind for a challenge…

When it comes to Film Festivals, St Kilda Film Festival offers something a little different. It’s Australia’s longest running short film festival and with over 100 films this year. Fred Gesha is the First Nations Arts Festivals and Events Officer. As the festival kicks off, Fred discusses the programmed for this year and how his music background has influenced the way he thinks about programming.

In honour of this year's NAIDOC theme "For Our Elders" Fred  Leone reflects the work of Aunty Joyce Bonner.

Mikayala Shaw-Friday's grandmother has been integral to her language learning. For Word Up this week Mikayla shares a little about her grandmother and a word that connects them.

Gudanji and Wakaja woman Debra Dank is a mother and grandmother, teacher, and the author of We Come With This Place. Last year Deb spoke to Awaye to celebrate the released her book which is as much a tribute to her family and Country as it was a gorgeous memoir. Now, We Come With This Place has swept the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards winning four of the fourteen prizes including the top honour, Book of the Year.

When No Fixed Address appeared on the Australian rock circuit in the early 1980s, they brought with them a pride and defiance that had rarely been seen before. Their music – adopted by Aboriginal protest movements at the time – continues to pack a punch, dealing with subjects like police harassment, colonisation, and of course survival. Now, the band is the subject of a memoir. Original band member Ricky Harrison, recent recruit Sean Moffat, and the memoir’s author Donald Robertson speak about looking back, and surviving a white man’s world.

Gudanji and Wakaja woman Debra Dank is a mother and grandmother, teacher, and the author of We Come With This Place. Last year Deb spoke to Awaye to celebrate the released her book which is as much a tribute to her family and Country as it was a gorgeous memoir. Now, We Come With This Place has swept the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards winning four of the fourteen prizes including the top honour, Book of the Year.

Mikayala Shaw-Friday's grandmother has been integral to her language learning. For Word Up this week Mikayla shares a little about her grandmother and a word that connects them.

When No Fixed Address appeared on the Australian rock circuit in the early 1980s, they brought with them a pride and defiance that had rarely been seen before. Their music – adopted by Aboriginal protest movements at the time – continues to pack a punch, dealing with subjects like police harassment, colonisation, and of course survival. Now, the band is the subject of a memoir. Original band member Ricky Harrison, recent recruit Sean Moffat, and the memoir’s author Donald Robertson speak about looking back, and surviving a white man’s world.

In 1999, Wesley Enoch wrote the book and lyrics for The Sunshine Club - a musical inspired by the very real dancehalls frequented by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders during the 1940s. Last year a revival of the show was staged in Queensland, and now it's set to tour nationally. As they return to the rehearsal room Wesley and performer Naarah discuss what theatre companies can learn about bravery from their artists.

Ngarinyman is the language from the northern Victoria River region in the Northern Territory. This month, Mikayla Shaw-Friday shares some Ngarinyman words that describe the time of day. This week we hear the Ngarinyman word for 'twilight'.

Yankunytjatjara poet Ali Cobby Eckermann describes her work as a "poetic manifesto of inner truth". From her poetry collections like Little Bit Long Time and Inside My Mother, to her verse novels His Father's Eyes and Ruby Moonlight, and her memoir Too Afraid To Cry - Ali's writing is emotional, powerful and healing  traversing the spaces between earth and sky. This year Ali has launched her first publication since being awarded the Windham-Chapel literary prize in 2017 — a new verse novel titled She Is The Earth published by Magabala Books.

In 1999, Wesley Enoch wrote the book and lyrics for The Sunshine Club - a musical inspired by the very real dancehalls frequented by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders during the 1940s. Last year a revival of the show was staged in Queensland, and now it's set to tour nationally. As they return to the rehearsal room Wesley and performer Naarah discuss what theatre companies can learn about bravery from their artists.

Yankunytjatjara poet Ali Cobby Eckermann describes her work as a "poetic manifesto of inner truth". From her poetry collections like Little Bit Long Time and Inside My Mother, to her verse novels His Father's Eyes and Ruby Moonlight, and her memoir Too Afraid To Cry - Ali's writing is emotional, powerful and healing  traversing the spaces between earth and sky. This year Ali has launched her first publication since being awarded the Windham-Chapel literary prize in 2017 — a new verse novel titled She Is The Earth published by Magabala Books.

Ngarinyman is the language from the northern Victoria River region in the Northern Territory. This month, Mikayla Shaw-Friday shares some Ngarinyman words that describe the time of day. This week we hear the Ngarinyman word for 'twilight'.

The last time hip hop artist Birdz was on RN Awaye! he'd just performed at the Sydney Opera House for Brigg's Bad Apples House Party. Now he's set to return, this time to debut a new collaborative project with Butchella songman Fred Leone. Birdz explains how Girra came together and why they wanted to premier it in front of audiences.

James Tylor is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work examines the impact of colonisation and the attempted erasure of Aboriginal culture. Using a combination of old-world photographic techniques, carpentry, sculpture and visual art, James says his practice is a means of cultural repatriation. And now UNSW Galleries is hosting a ten-year survey exhibition of James’ work, called Turrangka... in the shadows. James discusses the ways in which themes of light and dark permeate his work.

James Tylor is a multi-disciplinary artist whose work examines the impact of colonisation and the attempted erasure of Aboriginal culture. Using a combination of old-world photographic techniques, carpentry, sculpture and visual art, James says his practice is a means of cultural repatriation. And now UNSW Galleries is hosting a ten-year survey exhibition of James’ work, called Turrangka... in the shadows. James discusses the ways in which themes of light and dark permeate his work.

The last time hip hop artist Birdz was on RN Awaye! he'd just performed at the Sydney Opera House for Brigg's Bad Apples House Party. Now he's set to return, this time to debut a new collaborative project with Butchella songman Fred Leone. Birdz explains how Girra came together and why they wanted to premier it in front of audiences.

Ngarinyman speaker Mikayla Shaw-Friday returns to catch some more sunshine and share the word for afternoon.

Ngarinyman speaker Mikayla Shaw-Friday returns to catch some more sunshine and share the word for afternoon.

More than a singer; Uncle Jimmy Little was a consummate performer who could effortlessly hold an audience — one who's career spanned over 40 years and blazed a trail in the Australian music industry. And now his daughter Frances Peters-Little has released a long-awaited biography. Frances explains how her background as a historian and documentary maker influenced her writing, and shares why she believes all Blackfullas should consider life-writing.

Andrew Gurruwiwi is the shy-but-extravagant, blind, keytar-wielding Yolngu elder and frontman of the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band. Ahead of his upcoming show at the Garrmalang Festival in Darwin, Andrew discusses his song 'Gatjumak' and what drew him to music.

Ngarinyman is the language from the northern Victoria River region in the Northern Territory. This month, Mikayla Shaw-Friday shares some Ngarinyman words that describe the time of day. She begins this week with the Ngarinyman word for 'morning time'.

Since joining the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia in 2004, Keith Munro has been a leader and advisor on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander initiatives. And now he's been appointed as the first Director, First Nations Art and Cultures at the Museum. Keith explains what the role means to him and how it will shape the MCA.

Ngarinyman is the language from the northern Victoria River region in the Northern Territory. This month, Mikayla Shaw-Friday shares some Ngarinyman words that describe the time of day. She begins this week with the Ngarinyman word for 'morning time'.

More than a singer; Uncle Jimmy Little was a consummate performer who could effortlessly hold an audience — one who's career spanned over 40 years and blazed a trail in the Australian music industry. And now his daughter Frances Peters-Little has released a long-awaited biography. Frances explains how her background as a historian and documentary maker influenced her writing, and shares why she believes all Blackfullas should consider life-writing.

Since joining the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia in 2004, Keith Munro has been a leader and advisor on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander initiatives. And now he's been appointed as the first Director, First Nations Art and Cultures at the Museum. Keith explains what the role means to him and how it will shape the MCA.

Andrew Gurruwiwi is the shy-but-extravagant, blind, keytar-wielding Yolngu elder and frontman of the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band. Ahead of his upcoming show at the Garrmalang Festival in Darwin, Andrew discusses his song 'Gatjumak' and what drew him to music.

The National 4 brings together four leading Sydney cultural institutions to present the work of 48 new artists projects from around the country. Some of those artists share their stories with us, including Sharyn Egan, Teho Ropeyarn, and Christopher Bassi.

Luke Carroll discusses returning to Nathan Maynard’s play At What Cost… a show that asks one deceptively simple question: who gets to call themselves Aboriginal?

Bayadherra is the name for the Yorta Yorta Totem, which is the Long Neck Turtle.

Luke Carroll discusses returning to Nathan Maynard’s play At What Cost… a show that asks one deceptively simple question: who gets to call themselves Aboriginal?

The National 4 brings together four leading Sydney cultural institutions to present the work of 48 new artists projects from around the country. Some of those artists share their stories with us, including Sharyn Egan, Teho Ropeyarn, and Christopher Bassi.

Bayadherra is the name for the Yorta Yorta Totem, which is the Long Neck Turtle.

Ebony Joachim returns to share the Yorta Yorta names of two major rivers on her Country.

The Bleeding Tree by Angus Cerini is a play that hits you like a shot to the head. And now, it’s returning to Perth with an all First Nations cast and a First Nations director. Ian Michael and Karla Hart discuss what drew them to The Bleeding Tree, and what it's been like to return.

Yindyamarra is not so much a Wiradjuri word as an ethical practice – a philosophy about reciprocity. It’s now also the name of a podcast co-hosted by Stan Grant and Jack Jacobs, and run out of Charles Sturt University, which has its main campus in Bathurst — right there in Wiradjuri country.

The Bleeding Tree by Angus Cerini is a play that hits you like a shot to the head. And now, it’s returning to Perth with an all First Nations cast and a First Nations director. Ian Michael and Karla Hart discuss what drew them to The Bleeding Tree, and what it's been like to return.

Ebony Joachim returns to share the Yorta Yorta names of two major rivers on her Country.

Yindyamarra is not so much a Wiradjuri word as an ethical practice – a philosophy about reciprocity. It’s now also the name of a podcast co-hosted by Stan Grant and Jack Jacobs, and run out of Charles Sturt University, which has its main campus in Bathurst — right there in Wiradjuri country.

Actor and traditional dancer Emmanuel James Brown is one of three creatives who'll feature in Marrugeku's upcoming triple bill: Burrbgaja Yalirra 2. Ahead of the premier at Sydney's Carriageworks, EJB explains how his great-grandmother, Nyulu Stumpie Brown, inspired his work.

Award-winning artist and powerful vocalist Mo'Ju reflects on finding inspiration amidst change and why ORO PLATA MATA is the definition of a concept album.

For Word Up this week Ebony Joachim shares the Yorta Yorta word for 'country'.

Award-winning artist and powerful vocalist Mo'Ju reflects on finding inspiration amidst change and why ORO PLATA MATA is the definition of a concept album.

Actor and traditional dancer Emmanuel James Brown is one of three creatives who'll feature in Marrugeku's upcoming triple bill: Burrbgaja Yalirra 2. Ahead of the premier at Sydney's Carriageworks, EJB explains how his great-grandmother, Nyulu Stumpie Brown, inspired his work.

For Word Up this week Ebony Joachim shares the Yorta Yorta word for 'country'.

Alexis Wright's Praiseworthy is an epic set in the north of Australia, told with the richness of language and scale of imagery for which she has become renowned. In honour of the novel's release, Alexis discusses how fiction deepens understandings, and why she layers stories upon stories.

Yorta Yorta woman Ebony Joachim explains why the suffix '—pna' is often (though not exclusively) used in place names on her Country.

As the light festival Parrtjima prepares to launch its eighth consecutive year, Paul Ah Chee discusses how Parrtjima continues to find the light in Mparntwe Alice Springs.

As the light festival Parrtjima prepares to launch its eighth consecutive year, Paul Ah Chee discusses how Parrtjima continues to find the light in Mparntwe Alice Springs.

Alexis Wright's Praiseworthy is an epic set in the north of Australia, told with the richness of language and scale of imagery for which she has become renowned. In honour of the novel's release, Alexis discusses how fiction deepens understandings, and why she layers stories upon stories.

Yorta Yorta woman Ebony Joachim explains why the suffix '—pna' is often (though not exclusively) used in place names on her Country.

Filmed in lutruwita/Tasmania, Country is as much of a protagonist of Alone Australia as the competitors themselves. And not everyone is working to conquer her. Duane Byrne's is one of a handful of First Nations people cast for this new iteration of the cult hit, and he explains how the show has changed his relationship to community.

After spending nearly 30 years working as a midwife, Janty Blair has found a new calling in stand-up comedy. Ahead of the Brisbane Comedy Festival where she'll be performing with the Aboriginal Comedy Allstars, Janty looked back over the whirlwind year she's had and explained what prompted her to get up on stage. Warning: this discussion contains the names of people who have died.

After spending nearly 30 years working as a midwife, Janty Blair has found a new calling in stand-up comedy. Ahead of the Brisbane Comedy Festival where she'll be performing with the Aboriginal Comedy Allstars, Janty looked back over the whirlwind year she's had and explained what prompted her to get up on stage. Warning: this discussion contains the names of people who have died.

Filmed in lutruwita/Tasmania, Country is as much of a protagonist of Alone Australia as the competitors themselves. And not everyone is working to conquer her. Duane Byrne's is one of a handful of First Nations people cast for this new iteration of the cult hit, and he explains how the show has changed his relationship to community.

For Word Up this week Ebony Joachim shares a word that is special, not just to Yorta Yorta mob, but also to her because of the people that have passed on in her life.

Almost five years since Dan Sultan was last on road, he is set to begin touring again. And with the release of two new songs already this year, he discusses how his career has developed and why this is not a comeback.

From sculpture and ceramics to the cartoons featured in the Koori Mail, Danny Eastwood’s work is both prolific and iconic. He says his art is his heart and his voice – a means of talking about his life experiences, culture, and heritage.  And now, it’s on display at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre as part of his solo exhibition.

Yugambeh linguist Shaun Davies delves into the language name itself and the power of names.

Yugambeh linguist Shaun Davies delves into the language name itself and the power of names.

From sculpture and ceramics to the cartoons featured in the Koori Mail, Danny Eastwood’s work is both prolific and iconic. He says his art is his heart and his voice – a means of talking about his life experiences, culture, and heritage.  And now, it’s on display at the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre as part of his solo exhibition.

Almost five years since Dan Sultan was last on road, he is set to begin touring again. And with the release of two new songs already this year, he discusses how his career has developed and why this is not a comeback.

The Stars Descend is an ambitious work that consists of five chapters, crafted for five different communities in the south-west of Western Australia. Malgana woman Janine Oxenham is one of the choreographers of the work, as well as a performer — one of the literal stars. Between rehearsals Janine explains how the show came together.

Thea has been named the recipient of the 2023 La Prairie Art Award. The award supports Australian women artists through an international artist residency, including travelling to Switzerland to attend the Art Basel international art fair in June. Following the announcement, Thea explains what the honour means to her.

In 2019, Tony Briggs launched a weekend long festival dedicated to First Nations filmmakers from around the world — Birraranga Film Festival. Now in its third iteration, the biannual event is bigger than ever.

Throughout March, Yugambeh linguist Shaun Davies has been delving into the nuance of his language. This week his word selection has been inspired by our previous guest, Lorna Munro.

Thea has been named the recipient of the 2023 La Prairie Art Award. The award supports Australian women artists through an international artist residency, including travelling to Switzerland to attend the Art Basel international art fair in June. Following the announcement, Thea explains what the honour means to her.

The Stars Descend is an ambitious work that consists of five chapters, crafted for five different communities in the south-west of Western Australia. Malgana woman Janine Oxenham is one of the choreographers of the work, as well as a performer — one of the literal stars. Between rehearsals Janine explains how the show came together.

Throughout March, Yugambeh linguist Shaun Davies has been delving into the nuance of his language. This week his word selection has been inspired by our previous guest, Lorna Munro.

In 2019, Tony Briggs launched a weekend long festival dedicated to First Nations filmmakers from around the world — Birraranga Film Festival. Now in its third iteration, the biannual event is bigger than ever.

Linguist and Yugambeh man Shaun Davies shares a word you may have come across before but as Shaun explains when you look at the formation of the word it goes much deeper.

Almost 250 years after they were stolen by Cook and the crew of the HMS Endeavour, four spears will soon be returned to Country from England. Noeleen Timbery explains why this repatriation has been decades in the making, and how she felt when she first heard the news.

Ahead of her performance at the Hand In Hand Kidogo Irish Aboriginal Festival gospel blues singer Olive Knight shares why she's still something on a hidden gem despite having graced some of the biggest stages in the world.

Ahead of her performance at the Hand In Hand Kidogo Irish Aboriginal Festival gospel blues singer Olive Knight shares why she's still something on a hidden gem despite having graced some of the biggest stages in the world.

Linguist and Yugambeh man Shaun Davies shares a word you may have come across before but as Shaun explains when you look at the formation of the word it goes much deeper.

Almost 250 years after they were stolen by Cook and the crew of the HMS Endeavour, four spears will soon be returned to Country from England. Noeleen Timbery explains why this repatriation has been decades in the making, and how she felt when she first heard the news.

Aaron Wyatt is a Noongar, Yamatji and Wongai man from Perth and the first Indigenous person to conduct one of the major orchestras in Australia. But growing up, Aaron didn’t really see himself pursuing a career in music. Ahead of his March performance as part of Musica Viva Australia, Aaron explains how his many skills fold into and compliment each other, from performing to conducting to engineering.

When poet and multidisciplinary artist Jazz Money was asked to write an anthem for a major international LGBTIQA+ choral festival they began by thinking about the community and networks of care. With the help of composer Joseph Twist, it became "This is How We Love" and was performed by more than 500 singers from over a dozen choirs at Out & Loud & Proud.

Yugambeh linguist Shaun Davies shares a word that his old people created in the early days of colonisation.

Yuin dancer and songwoman Sharon Mason knows the power of culture to heal. As founder of the Djaadjawan Dancers, she’s been revitalising Yuin song and dance on the NSW far south coast for years, and inviting other women on her journey. Now, Sharon is realising a long-held dream to bring traditional gatherings back to Country.

Aaron Wyatt is a Noongar, Yamatji and Wongai man from Perth and the first Indigenous person to conduct one of the major orchestras in Australia. But growing up, Aaron didn’t really see himself pursuing a career in music. Ahead of his March performance as part of Musica Viva Australia, Aaron explains how his many skills fold into and compliment each other, from performing to conducting to engineering.

Yuin dancer and songwoman Sharon Mason knows the power of culture to heal. As founder of the Djaadjawan Dancers, she’s been revitalising Yuin song and dance on the NSW far south coast for years, and inviting other women on her journey. Now, Sharon is realising a long-held dream to bring traditional gatherings back to Country.

When poet and multidisciplinary artist Jazz Money was asked to write an anthem for a major international LGBTIQA+ choral festival they began by thinking about the community and networks of care. With the help of composer Joseph Twist, it became "This is How We Love" and was performed by more than 500 singers from over a dozen choirs at Out & Loud & Proud.

Yugambeh linguist Shaun Davies shares a word that his old people created in the early days of colonisation.

Dalara Williams is someone probably best known for her acting, but she's recently been named 2022 Balnaves Foundation Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellow. It's one of the country's most prestigious playwriting awards, and over the next 18 months Dalara will use the fellowship to develop a show set just down the road from Belvoir.

The Huxley's work connects the world of photography, art-making, performance and drag and their latest exhibition Bloodlines is no different. 

Poet and podcaster Lorna Munro's passion for language has led her to understand the origin of words that she used every day, without knowing they were indeed Wiradjuri – words like nyin – for grandmother, which translates to ‘heart’. Her last word is not so much a word as a conjugation, a Wiradjuri term widely spoken in Aboriginal English, but which is now known across Australia.

A health advocate with a long career in the community and the sector, Sue is one of the Koorie Wirguls – a lesbian support group set up in the 1980s which maintained a strong presence in the parade. She's also a board member of Sydney WorldPride. For the Muru-ba Indigenous oral history project, Sue shares her thoughts about the nature of pride: what it means to live in pride, and what she’s most proud of.

Drag takes on more forms than there are colours in the rainbow.   And Roymata Holmes is using one of those forms in their show I Am King/Queen – an autobiographical exploration of gender, culture and intersectionality. Roymata discusses how they’ve navigated the boundaries between private narratives and public performance.

Poet and podcaster Lorna Munro's passion for language has led her to understand the origin of words that she used every day, without knowing they were indeed Wiradjuri – words like nyin – for grandmother, which translates to ‘heart’. Her last word is not so much a word as a conjugation, a Wiradjuri term widely spoken in Aboriginal English, but which is now known across Australia.

Dalara Williams is someone probably best known for her acting, but she's recently been named 2022 Balnaves Foundation Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Fellow. It's one of the country's most prestigious playwriting awards, and over the next 18 months Dalara will use the fellowship to develop a show set just down the road from Belvoir.

The Huxleys work connects the world of photography, art-making, performance and drag and their latest exhibition Bloodlines is no different. 

A health advocate with a long career in the community and the sector, Sue is one of the Koorie Wirguls – a lesbian support group set up in the 1980s which maintained a strong presence in the parade. She's also a board member of Sydney WorldPride. For the Muru-ba Indigenous oral history project, Sue shares her thoughts about the nature of pride: what it means to live in pride, and what she’s most proud of.

Drag takes on more forms than there are colours in the rainbow.   And Roymata Holmes is using one of those forms in their show I Am King/Queen – an autobiographical exploration of gender, culture and intersectionality. Roymata discusses how they’ve navigated the boundaries between private narratives and public performance.

Kamilaroi/Bigambul man Archie Moore is a contemporary artist whose career has spanned more than 25 years. Now he's set to become only the second Aboriginal artist to singularly present at the Venice Biennale, one of the world’s oldest events of its kind. Archie explains how he explores themes of racism, national identity and his own family history through art.

Words are something Lorna Munro knows all about — her poetry is widely published, and she’s even translated the King’s speech from Shakespeare’s Henry V into Wiradjuri, the language of the central west of New South Wales. For Word Up this week, she shares a single word that can act as a greeting, ask a question and lay down a philosophical challenge.

Deborah Cheetham’s life story is both fascinating and heartbreaking — and it’s one of those Indigenous oral histories being collected for Muruba, a project for Sydney WorldPride. The Yorta Yorta soprano and composer discusses what 'pride' means to her, and why she's no stranger to a sense of occasion.

Kamilaroi/Bigambul man Archie Moore is a contemporary artist whose career has spanned more than 25 years. Now he's set to become only the second Aboriginal artist to singularly present at the Venice Biennale, one of the world’s oldest events of its kind. Archie explains how he explores themes of racism, national identity and his own family history through art.

Words are something Lorna Munro knows all about — her poetry is widely published, and she’s even translated the King’s speech from Shakespeare’s Henry V into Wiradjuri, the language of the central west of New South Wales. For Word Up this week, she shares a single word that can act as a greeting, ask a question and lay down a philosophical challenge.

Deborah Cheetham’s life story is both fascinating and heartbreaking — and it’s one of those Indigenous oral histories being collected for Muruba, a project for Sydney WorldPride. The Yorta Yorta soprano and composer discusses what 'pride' means to her, and why she's no stranger to a sense of occasion.

In this excerpt of the Muru-ba Indigenous Oral History Project, Colin Ross reflects on what pride means to him as one of those who fought to stop the shame and the isolation — and the invisibility — that affected HIV-positive Black queer mob in the 80s and 90s.

Lorna Munro has spent more than half her life engaged in a long research project, to discover how even a monosyllable — a familial term like ‘nan’ — holds a key to understanding how the ancestors thought, and more than that their worldview.

The government’s newly released national cultural policy is a comprehensive road map that establishes the priorities for the federal government in terms of arts and culture.

In this excerpt of the Muru-ba Indigenous Oral History Project, Colin Ross reflects on what pride means to him as one of those who fought to stop the shame and the isolation — and the invisibility — that affected HIV-positive Black queer mob in the 80s and 90s.

Lorna Munro has spent more than half her life engaged in a long research project, to discover how even a monosyllable — a familial term like ‘nan’ — holds a key to understanding how the ancestors thought, and more than that their worldview.

The government’s newly released national cultural policy is a comprehensive road map that establishes the priorities for the federal government in terms of arts and culture.

Muru-ba is an Indigenous oral history project designed to unearth stories of LGBTQI+ community leaders for whom the notion of “pride” isn’t just a matter of sexual identity.  For Ngarigo artist Peter Waples-Crowe, pride is 'a life long thing'.

On 8 February 1993, Clayton Lewis broadcast the first ever episode of Awaye on ABC RN. The goal was to reflect the depth, diversity and vitality of Indigenous culture through the arts.  This week some of the people who've shaped Awaye discuss the way this principle holds true 30 years on.

They say some babies grow into their names. Meanwhile others fully inhabit the name their parents choose, as if it was ordained to be so before they were born. That’s what Lorna Munro found when she named her son a particularly beautiful word in Gomeroi, her father’s language.

On 8 February 1993, Clayton Lewis broadcast the first ever episode of Awaye on ABC RN. The goal was to reflect the depth, diversity and vitality of Indigenous culture through the arts.  This week some of the people who've shaped Awaye discuss the way this principle holds true 30 years on.

Muru-ba is an Indigenous oral history project designed to unearth stories of LGBTQI+ community leaders for whom the notion of “pride” isn’t just a matter of sexual identity.  For Ngarigo artist Peter Waples-Crowe, pride is 'a life long thing'.

They say some babies grow into their names. Meanwhile others fully inhabit the name their parents choose, as if it was ordained to be so before they were born. That’s what Lorna Munro found when she named her son a particularly beautiful word in Gomeroi, her father’s language.

Bangarra Dance Theatre's new iteration of Dance Clan features the choreographic work from three artists, each of whom are either current or former dancers of the company. Ahead of the season premier choreographer Sani Townson shared the inspiration behind his work.

Muruwari and Pilipino rapper DOBBY has carved out a name for himself by delivering songs with a strong message, and his new song That’s Not Me is continuing along this rich vein.

Poet and podcaster Lorna Munro explains how meaning and a particular worldview is embedded, and embodied, in the Gomeroi word 'yilaalu'.

Julie Janson's crime fiction debut Muddaka The River Serpent is set in regional New South Wales, and features an aunty who’ll stop at nothing when it comes to fighting for her people and her land.

Bangarra Dance Theatre's new iteration of Dance Clan features the choreographic work from three artists, each of whom are either current or former dancers of the company. Ahead of the season premier choreographer Sani Townson shared the inspiration behind his work.

Poet and podcaster Lorna Munro explains how meaning and a particular worldview is embedded, and embodied, in the Gomeroi word 'yilaalu'.

Muruwari and Pilipino rapper DOBBY has carved out a name for himself by delivering songs with a strong message, and his new song That’s Not Me is continuing along this rich vein.

Julie Janson's crime fiction debut Muddaka The River Serpent is set in regional New South Wales, and features an aunty who’ll stop at nothing when it comes to fighting for her people and her land.

Ray Ingrey is a Dharawal man and chairperson of the Gujaga Foundation. Based in La Perouse it was created to instil a sense of cultural belonging in the area, and for Ray learning Dharawal language is central to this mission.

Ray Ingrey is a Dharawal man and chairperson of the Gujaga Foundation. Based in La Perouse it was created to instil a sense of cultural belonging in the area, and for Ray learning Dharawal language is central to this mission.

When then Prime Minister Paul Keating gave the historic Redfern speech on 10 December 1992, he challenged the nation to confront its past and open its heart. For the first time in Australia’s history a prime minister publicly acknowledged the critical role the government played in Aboriginal dispossession from land and the injustices of removing Aboriginal children from their families. Today you’ll return to the park where Mr Keating changed the national conversation.

Singer-songwriter Royston Sagigi-Baira (also known as Royston Noel) shares some Kala Lagaw Ya and explains why he loves being an uncle.

Deline Briscoe discusses how BLAKTIVISM will celebrate and explore the space between music and activism.

Choreographer Daniel Riley is the great-great-nephew of the iconic Wiradjuri tracker, Alec "Tracker" Riley, and the artistic director of the Australian Dance Theatre on Kaurna Yerta. In January 2023 ADT, in association with Illbijeri Theatre Company, will bring Tracker Riley's story to the stage with the aptly named production TRACKER. But first, Daniel had to go back to Dubbo on Wiradjuri Country.

Stephanie Skinner is a traditional owner of Wadawurrung country and she started learning her language as a kid, before eventually building her conversational skills and becoming a passionate language advocate.

As a choreographer, Joel Bray is adept at blurring the lines between audience and performer, and his new work promises to be no different. Developed in close consultation with Wiradjuri Elders, Garabari is Joel's newest immersive performance. He discusses the making of Garabari, and what it was like to shift to the other side of the creative table at a contemporary dance company he's worked with for so many years.

For Word Up this week, Merindi Schreiber shares some Kuku Yalanji, including a phrase that encapsulates what learning means to her.

Aunty Lorrain Tye, Uncle James Ingram, and Aunty Mary Atinkson are three of the Elders who contributed to the anthology Growing Up Wiradjuri. They explain why they shared their stories, and what it was like growing up Wiradjuri.

Nathan May's two biggest passions in life are his family and music. When he's not busy being a dad or working as a youth mentor in his community, Nathan is writing and recording music.

For Word Up this week, Rulla Kelly-Mansell shares some palawa kani — a constructed language based on various languages spoken around the east of the island.

Kodie Bedford is an East Kimberley girl who knew she wanted to be a screenwriter after watching an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Now, with over a decade of experience under her belt, Kodie has been nominated for AWGIE Awards for her work on the phenomenal shows Firebite (AMC+) and All My Friends Are Racist (ABC). Ahead of the awards, Kodie discusses how she made the jump from journalism to screenwriting, and why Australia needs to keep investing in local talent.

Over the past week First Nations arts and culture practitioners gathered on Kaurna Yerta in Adelaide for Purrumpa.

For Karuna Narangga woman Elaine Magias learning her language wasn't just something she wanted to do, it was something she needed to do.

Maya Johnson is a Wulgurukaba woman, from Magnetic Island. For Word Up this week she shares the cultural name of the island and explains how it came to be formed.

Dhungutti man Dr Mitchell Gibbs says that science can learn a lot from the arts, starting with not being too strict, too one dimensional.

Common Ground's latest collection of Bedtime Stories will feature the dreaming, knowledge and language of the Wiradjuri Nation.

Dr Mykaela Saunders is the latest recipient of the David Unaipon Award for an Emerging Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Writer. She explains how her research into First Nations speculative fiction has influenced her writing, and why she's drawn to writing Blackfullas into the future.

With the release of Vince Copley AM's posthumously published autobiography The Wonder of Little Things, his daughter Kara McEwan explains how the book came together over many cups of tea.

Kuku Yalandji and Woppaburra woman Marlene Cummins is an activist, a mother, a musician, a radio host, an actor, an artist, a cultural educator and so much more. Marlene speaks to you about finding her voice in the blues.

Juanita Scott-Funaki is a Yuin and Kamilaroi woman who grew on New South Wales' south coast. This week she shares some Yuin words that remind her of her beloved grandfather. 

Originally written by John Harding and Gary Foley The Dirty Mile was originally a promenade play. Well now it has a second life as a radio play.

Musician Nathan May shares some of his language — Arabana.

Fred Leone, Alethea Beetson and Vincent Namatjira are three of the five Indigenous recipients of this year's Sidney Myer Creative Fellowship. They discuss what impact the $160 000 fellowships will have on their lives and their art practices.

Central and Eastern Arrernte man Craig Tilmouth grew up in and around Mparntwe (Alice Springs). He shares some Arrernte language, including a few phrases likely to be heard around Mparntwe.

Kirk Page will soon take the stage in Michael Mohammed Ahmad's new physical theatre work The Demon.

Art. Justice. Resistance. Transformation.  Entropy Awakening is an exhibition from Gamilaroi artist Travis De Vries and curated by Dr Marie Hadley presenting provocative perspectives on anti-racism protest, agency, and First Nations futurisms. 

Clark Webb has been hugely influential in bringing Gumbaynggirr back into his home community, even helping establish the Gumbaynggirr Giingana Freedom School.

Playwright Brodie Murray discusses his new show The Whisper which is set to debut at Melbourne Fringe Festival.

Jem Cassar-Daley is turning heads on her own terms, in her own style with the release of her indie/pop EP I Don't Know Who To Call.

For the past two years Ronald Briggs has worked with the community, families, and founding members of the Koori Knockout to curate an exhibition aimed at capturing the history, pride and excitement of the event.

Actor and singer Ursula Yovich's love of languages is intrinsically linked with her love of music. For Word Up today Ursula is sharing some of her mother's language, Burarra.

Harley Mann fell into the art of circus at a young age.

Filmmaker Rachel Perkins has spent the past five years delving into the Frontier Wars for her new docu-series The Australian Wars.

In October Carriageworks will host the first of three events honour the founders and legacies of First Nations contemporary theatre, dance and politics.

For Word Up this week, artist Gordon Hookey shares some Waanyi language, including a word that describes the sound of a boomerang spinning in the water.

When it comes to telling the story of Uncle Jack Charles, no one really does it better than the man himself. Read Daniel Browning's moving tribute to Uncle Jack Charles here: 'I called him Uncle': Remembering iconic theatre great Uncle Jack Charles

The passing of Uncle Jack Charles has many reflecting on his life and legacy — and certainly one of Uncle Jack's most memorable roles was that of his one-man-show, Jack Charles v The Crown. As she reflects on the impact Uncle Jack had on Blak theatre over the years, Rachael Maza explains how directing Jack Charles v The Crown showed her a whole new side of him as a performer.

Deline Briscoe shares three more Kuku Yalanji words and explains how her relationship with language has developed.

After releasing her debut track Falling Noongar singer-songwriter Bumpy took a two-year hiatus from releasing music. But now she's back with a vengeance.

For choreographer and dancer Thomas E. Kelly thinking about silence leads to the question 'what does it take to break silence'. Thomas discusses how unheard conversations and their muted responses go to the heart of Karul Projects' new work, Silence. 

In February the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales was hit with the biggest flood in modern Australian history. The floodwaters reached 14.5 metres, destroying businesses and homes including the offices of the Aboriginal owned and operated newspaper The Koori Mail. Naomi Moran explains how the newspaper is still contributing to the massive community relief effort.

Aunty Christine Stuart is a Gubbi Gubbi elder and cultural educator living and working on her country. For Word Up this week she takes you to Queensland's sunshine coast to share some of her language, including the Gubbi Gubbi word for 'fire'.

Created by Stephen Page and his son Hunter Page-Lochard, alongside Sani Townson and Elma Kris, Waru is Bangarra Dance Theatre's first dedicated work for children.

How do we honour the histories we have inherited, while also creating new stories? What role does community play in the often solitary practice of poetry? These two questions are at the heart of sessions Jazz Money crafted as a guest curator for Melbourne Writers Festival.

Anita Heiss discusses how the stage version of Tiddas is opening up new elements of the original 2014 novel for her.

Rhyan Clapham, aka Dobby, explains how it felt to win the Archie Roach Foundation award, so soon after the legendary songman's passing.

In the heart of the southern Murray Basin, Uncle Vince Ross shares some of his language — Muthi Muthi.

Trevor Byrne discusses his late-father's memoir Living in Hope and the way it pieces together fragments of the past.

Alethea Beetson is a Kabi Kabi/Gubbi Gubbi and Wiradjuri storyteller, and her work often explores societal issues, cultural heritage and colonisation — Queen City is no different.

For Word Up, author Debra Dank shares some Gudanji language, including the name of her favourite food.

Next month, songman Paul Ah Chee will blend music and storytelling on stage as he reflects on "a life travelled through six decades."

Leah Lui-Chivizhe discusses the fascinating (and heartbreaking) history of turtle shell masks of the Torres Strait.

An intimate stage, a yella tree and a love-story.

Joy Bulkanhawuy shares some of her language — Djabarrpuyŋu Matha.

 Yvonne Weldon debut novel Sixty Seven Days is a tragic love story that captures and affirms connections to Country, community and the Dreaming.

Jub Clerc presents Sweet As, the film that's been dubbed the Breakfast Club meets the outback.

In honour of Uncle Archie, this is a small excerpt his 2008 interview with ABC's Daniel Browning about the making of his album Journey.

Produced by Lann Levinge, First Light will feature Yalanji singer Deline Briscoe and invites guests ground their feet in the sand as the sun rises over the sea.

Meriam artist Aunty Gail Mabo shares some of her language, including a song that she sings to her young ones.

The Telstra NATSIAAs is the most lucrative First Nations art awards, today you meet some of the winners.

Craig Quartermaine didn't start learning Noongar language until later in life, but being surrounded by a passionate community is helping him make up for lost time.