More than a Holiday Program at Yarrawarra
06-02-2025
Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre has delivered unique summer programming that offers a vibrant mix of Country, culture and art in a range of hands-on activities, tours, and exhibitions.
The centre and its attached Wadjar Regional Indigenous Gallery celebrate rich Gumbaynggirr heritage, and a key part of this occurs over summer where they have established a benchmark for community-run programs.
Many ACHAA member centres run holiday programs. Yarrawarra’s always stands out for its innovations, thanks to the hard work and dedication of Creative Director Alison Williams and Event Co-ordinator Lilly Clegg, both talented artists themselves. As with much of their programming, this January’s program drew inspiration from environmental protection and sustainability, built around its drawcard exhibition:
Bower Bird Exhibition – A Celebration of Storytelling and Sacred Waterways
Bower Bird, an exhibition by artist Josie Rose Atkinson Flanders, Gumbaynggirr artist from Coffs Harbour started the summer period beautifully. This exhibition was Josie Roses inaugural solo exhibition, featuring an eclectic display of framed artworks that revealed her evolving technique and storytelling style. Through her works, Rose invites reflection on the importance of Caring for Country. Bower Bird offered a unique window into the perspective of a First Nations woman and the importance of preserving Sacred Waterways. We are keen to see her voice as an artist continue to grow.
Free Community Weaving Circle – Ghost Nets and Upcycled Plastics
Gumbaynggirr weavers Lilly Clegg and Dee Murphy offered a unique opportunity to learn weaving using upcycled soft plastics and reclaimed fishing nets. This free community workshop encouraged participants to delve into colour and texture while contributing to environmental conservation and honouring Gumbayggirr Country and expression. The workshop offered a peaceful setting to create and connect with nature, while focusing on the global issue of plastic waste. An artist talk by Josie Rose offered insight into her use of upcycled plastics in her exhibition as well, perfectly illustrating how the workshop activities can offer connection and expression for attendees.
Watercolour Painting Holiday Workshop
For those looking to develop their own artistic expression, a watercolour painting workshop with a talented Gumbaynggirr artist took place in the outdoor undercover workshop space. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Yarrawarra, participants were guided through various watercolour techniques while enjoying the coastal breeze and bird song. All materials were provided for an enjoyable, creative experience for beginners and seasoned artists alike.
Holiday Bush Tucker and Medicine Tour
In a unique opportunity to experience traditional knowledge and Country, a guided walk through the bush was provided by local Gumbaynggirr educator Dallas Gittins, learning about the ancient bush medicines, foods, and fibres of the Mid North Coast. This immersive experience, set in the melaleuca and bloodwood forests, offered a hands-on understanding and appreciation of traditional Gumbaynggirr knowledge passed down through generations.
Crystal Macrame Workshop
In this creative workshop, local artist and weaver Kath Stevens guided participants in crafting their own unique piece of crystal macrame jewellery. Set in the beautiful outdoor space at the centre, this workshop was a chance to slow down, create, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding Country while making something special to take home.
Hat Pyrography with Tori Donnelly
Guided by talented Gumbaynggirr artist Tori Donnelly, this workshop taught the art of pyrography, where participants can burn their own designs into hats. This provided an exciting chance to create a piece of wearable art, blending creativity with cultural craftsmanship.
With these events, Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre delivered on the promise of an enriching and fun-filled school holiday program that blended the art, culture, and environmental awareness that we have come to know from them.
What’s Next at Yarrawarra?
The opportunity for the community to experience their brilliant programming has not passed them by, with their commitment to community and cultural expression continues with their ongoing monthly Weaving Circle facilitated by Gumbaynggirr weaver Lilly Clegg. Alongside this, Saturday 8 February will mark the opening of Wadjar Regional Indigenous Gallery’s next exhibition; GURRIL. The exhibition will feature original art from “Gurril: Storm Bird”, a Children’s Book written by Gimuy Walubara author Trevor Fourmile from Yidinji Country in Far North Queensland, showcasing extraordinary new works illustrated for the book by talented Gumbaynggirr Artist, Melissa “Jingalu” Craig.
It is always a pleasure to see the work done at Yarrawarra and Wadjar, and we congratulate them on their ongoing success keeping the fire of Gumbaynggirr culture burning.
