QPAC

Barragga Yangga, meaning ‘Many Songs’ in traditional Dhurga language, is a moving celebration of First Nations language, story and song.

Created under the artistic direction of Cheryl Overton (née Davison), this extraordinary project brings together intergenerational Yuin choir Djinama Yilaga, Heath Cullen, Fred Leone, and more.

The audience will be immersed in classical music, new songs in traditional Dhurga language, and lifted up by local children’s and adult choirs.

This new collection of songs is the culmination of three years of creative development by Djinama Yilaga, Four Winds and the Bundanon Trust. Written by the members of Djinama Yilaga, these songs weave together ancient Yuin stories with deeply personal reflections on family and connection to Country. One song tells of ancestor Bundoola – the lightning and thunder spirit – and his 13 wives from the groups that form the Yuin nation.

Another, “Wandung Bawarr Njiinj”, recounts how whales arrive when the wattle blooms, signalling a journey to higher country. “Yaway”, meaning ‘come and sit down’, threads through the performance, inviting people together while acknowledging the need to keep gathering, retelling stories, and healing from the devastating disruptions of colonisation. Other songs are about growing up on Wallaga Lake Mission, and honour Uncle Jimmy Little. The collection closes with “We Have Tomorrow and She Looks Good”. 

Barragga Yangga is part of Clancestry. Find out more about Clancestry.