A powerful celebration of First Nations music, art, and community – Yaama Guduu, Greetings Murray Cod – will land in the heart of Tamworth from November 28-30.
A free community event celebrating the end of the Murray cod breeding season and the closing weekend of the exhibition Bush Lines at Tamworth Regional Gallery, this special three-day activation invites audiences to gather, create and celebrate through a series of free performances, talks and workshops.
The event is presented in partnership with Tamworth Regional Council, Tamworth Regional Gallery, and Awesome Black, and supported by the Office of the 24-Hour Economy.
Awesome Black director, Travis De Vries, said the event aims to amplify First Nations voices and foster creative connection across generations and art forms.
“Yaama Guduu is about activating the First Nations artist community in Tamworth – taking centre stage in community spaces and sharing culture in a way where everyone can take part,” Mr De Vries said.
“Having this around the closing weekend of the Bush Lines exhibition celebrates regional creativity and the future of First Nations-led cultural infrastructure in Tamworth and beyond.”
Liam Keenan, Gomeroi man and curator of Bush Lines has been instrumental in getting this event to Tamworth.
“As a Gomeroi man who grew up in Tamworth, it’s been really special to come home and curate the exhibition Bush Lines at Tamworth Regional Gallery, which celebrates life in the bush and our regional and remote landscapes,” Mr Keenan said.
“I wanted to expand on this with a free event for the community and Yaama Guduu deepens these connections, honouring the end of the breeding season for the iconic Murray cod and its return to the rivers and waterways of Gomeroi Country.”
Across the weekend, visitors can join workshops, hear live performances, and meet artists whose practices speak to Country, connection, and creative self-determination. Activations centred around the Bush Lines exhibition will unfold across key local sites.
Fitzroy Plaza Drop-in Workshops: An opportunity to take part in the Ghost Nets Community Sculpture Project led by featured artist Sue Ryan, culminating in the creation of a striking giant Murray cod sculpture which will join the Gallery’s exhibition collection.
Tamworth Regional Art Gallery: Local students will participate in workshops with Sue Ryan creating their own sculptures, as well as experience acoustic sets and artist and curator talks to enhance the exhibition
DJ workshops: Local youth will have the opportunity to participate in production and DJ workshops culminate in live performance opportunities
Fitzroy Plaza: A public live music stage featuring performances by celebrated and emerging First Nations artists including Buddy Knox, Jayden Kitchener-Waters, Bow and Arrow, Dyagula, local youth DJs, and many more.
For a full list of featured artists and schedule please visit YAAMA GUDUU Greetings Murray Cod.
