Dr Shellie Morris AO returns to Festival Park with Arrkula Yinbayarra (Together We Sing).

Experience the vibrant sounds and cultural richness of this group of singers as they bring their debut album Waralungku to the stage!

Born from the heart of Borroloola’s Gulf of Carpentaria community, this empowering project breathes new life into critically endangered languages – Yanyuwa, Garrwa, Gudanji and Marra. Led by a group of dynamic women passionate about preserving their heritage, Arrkula Yinbayarra is a celebration of language, empowerment and resilience. The vision of Marlene Timothy, it features the lived experience and hopes of writers and composers Dinah Norman, Isa McDinny, Nancy McDinny, Mavis Timothy, Annie Taylor, Marlene Karkadoo, Maria Pyro, Rachel McDinny, Selma Hoosan, Deandra McDinny and Dr. Shellie Morris AO.

Guided by the community, each track resonates with the vibrant history and traditions of the Gulf’s diverse community. From the standing ovations at Woodford Folk Festival and Port Fairy Folk Festival to feature album spots on radio stations across the continent, Arrkula Yinbayarra has garnered acclaim and accolades, captivating audiences with its harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity. Now this project comes back to the Territory and plays a home audience where Arrkula Yinbayarra invites you to embark on a musical journey that transcends time and resonates with the heartbeats of the Gulf’s people. Immerse yourself in the powerful synergy of community, language, and culture, as Arrkula Yinbayarra takes the stage to showcase the spirit and heritage of the region.

Released during UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages, this album shines a powerful spotlight on the importance of language reclamation and resilience. Every note is a testament to the strength and spirit of the Gulf community and you’re invited to be part of a celebration that honours the past, empowers the present and inspires the future.