MUSICAL BINGO

PRESERVING BUNDJALUNG WEAVING PRACTICES: ARTS NORTHERN RIVERS LAUNCHES ‘BULAAN BURUUGAA NGALI’

Arts Northern Rivers has announced the upcoming launch of ‘Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali, We Weave Together,’ a special publication dedicated to preserving the weaving practices of Bundjalung women. The launch will take place during this year’s Byron Writers Festival in August, under the theme of ‘Wild Imagination,’ which boasts an impressive lineup of over 120 infuential writers and thinkers.

As a featured event of the Festival, the Weaving Gathering will take place on Saturday, August 12th, from 10am to 2pm. This unique opportunity allows attendees to engage with

Bundjalung Elders and weavers, celebrating traditional techniques and the launch of the publication. Participants can immerse themselves in the cultural practices and weaving techniques showcased in the book, learning directly from the Elders and Weavers themselves.

The event aims to foster dialogue, appreciation, and celebration of the revitalised weaving practices that are central to Bundjalung culture, as showcased in ‘Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali.’ Through stories of Elders and weavers, historical materials, and traditional plant species and techniques, the publication serves as a powerful testament to the strength, endurance, and talent of these remarkable artisans.

Over the past four years, Arts Northern Rivers has conducted workshops where local weavers generously shared their knowledge and techniques with Aboriginal communities across the Bundjalung region. These workshops have united women from Bundjalung and beyond, revitalising age-old weaving practices.

The publication captures the enduring reclamation journey, sharing stories of Elders, exploring historical museum collections, and outlining traditional plant species and harvesting techniques, inviting others to learn this ancient Bundjalung artform.

Written by acclaimed writer, producer, and director Rhoda Roberts AO, compiled and produced by Kylie Caldwell, and edited by Melissa Lucashenko, this publication foregrounds and empowers Indigenous voices, turning the dominant perspective back to First Nations women as practising artists. It also features an immanent woven prelude by Melissa Lucashenko, the winner of the Miles Franklin Award. The publication offers a captivating exploration of the Bundjalung weavers’ traditions within the Northern Rivers of NSW, beautifully presented through a rich visual display. The stunning imagery, skillfully captured by acclaimed photographer Kate Holmes, along with the talented mentee photographer Kris Cook, showcases the intricate artistry and craftsmanship. Additionally, this publication provides a rare glimpse into the meticulously crafted baskets through archival imagery from Australian and International museum collections.

“Everything is connected, as you will discover. With each story here, there resonates a different lens through which to explore the Bundjalung region and the lived experiences of the weavers. Our Bundjalung culture is central to our lives, and the women you will get to know here have made a signifcant contribution towards the frst invaluable step, renewing our hearts and minds. They are encouraging those who reside On-Country – and those who are provided for by Country – to join us and begin a new dialogue.”Rhoda Roberts AO

For more information about the publication and to stay updated with how to purchase visit artsnorthernrivers.com.au/ project/bulaan-buruugaangali.

To attend the Weaving Gathering at the Byron Writers Festival Saturday August 12th (entry included with Saturday Pass) visit the Byron Writers Festival for tickets at byronwritersfestival.com/ festival.