Gulkula in remote northeast Arnhem Land is the spectacular and sacred site atop an escarpment where the Gumatj people of the Yolngu nation welcome visitors to learn and experience their culture.
Marking the 25th Anniversary of Australia’s most significant Indigenous event, the Garma Festival is a four-day celebration held in August each year. Thirteen Year 11 Barker College students were selected to attend the Youth Forum within the festival, providing leadership in a space for First Nations youth to join in a range of workshops including music, dance, weaving, language and collaborating on a vision for the youth to present to politicians about their hopes for a bright future.
The Youth Forum began with a traditional raypirri rom (discipline) ceremony, encouraging students to be respectful, proud and strong representatives of their communities. Working alongside students from Maningrida, Galiwinku, Ramingining and NT communities, the students flourished, making new friendships and learning to listen deeply and embrace new ways of thinking. The evening bunggul is always a highlight, with Barker staff and students joining the Gumatj families from Dhupuma Barker to (try to!) dance the traditional songlines.
Several of the students who attended Garma shared their highlights from this unique experience:
“The Garma Festival experience is a mix of deep cultural learning, connection to country and some of the hardest laughs I’ve ever had. I left with a full heart, new friends, and a whole new perspective” – Sophie
“This has been a magical and spiritual journey that words cannot describe. It will sit with me for the rest of my life.” – Jack
“A unique experience that taught me the power of connecting with land, culture and community, opening my eyes and mind to a deep and rich history that continues to shape our present” – Georgia
“My cultural roots have been deepened in a way I could never have imagined.” – Jimmy
