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Much-anticipated Barunga Festival back this month: Kirby

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The Hon. Paul Kirby, Minister for Major Events (NT), Media Release, 8 August 2022

The Territory’s iconic Barunga Festival is set to take place from 12-14 August, with thousands of attendees from across the Territory and Australia set to descend upon the remote community for the three-day cultural extravaganza.

Photo: Barunga Festival

Program highlights this year include music performances from the Eylandt Band, traditional dancing from Groote Eylandt Bungul, spear throwing demonstrations, bush tucker tastings, weaving workshops and much more.

In addition, there will be numerous food vendors, sporting matches taking place throughout the weekend, and an inflatable water slide and jumping castle for the kids.

With a focus on music, sport and culture, Barunga Festival celebrates Indigenous community life and pays homage to the 1988 Barunga Statement presented to Prime Minister Bob Hawke by Aboriginal leaders many years ago.

This year’s Barunga is shaping up to be another incredible festival, and with tickets selling quickly, people are encouraged to secure their spot as soon as possible.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.barungafestival.com.au/.

Quotes from Minister for Major Events Paul Kirby:

“It’s great to see the Barunga Festival back in August this year, with a fantastic program on offer that the whole community can get involved in.

“Whether it’s music, sport, traditional arts or cultural activities, this unique event has something for everyone and is a must-do on the national festival calendar.

“The Northern Territory Government is proud to support this festival, knowing the incredible benefits it brings the region such as showcasing Barunga’s rich history and culture, boosting visitor numbers and supporting local businesses.”

Quotes from Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Selena Uibo:

“The community of Barunga is looking forward to welcoming visitors to engage and indulge in arts, sport, community and culture this weekend at the Barunga Festival.

“After the event was rescheduled from its original June timeslot, event organisers are looking forward to delivering an even bigger program that the whole family can enjoy.

“Since it was first held in 1985, the Barunga Festival has provided an opportunity for visitors from all over Australia and the world to learn more about the Arnhem region – rich in cultural traditions, and with a fascinating and massive history.”

Quotes from Barunga Festival Coordinator Angela Kelly:

“This out-of-season Barunga event has generated much interest from a new audience who normally wouldn’t be in the Territory at this time of the year.

“Barunga 2022 is shaping up to be a cultural extravaganza with many activities to participate in, thanks to the support of the NT Government.”

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