Iwarra Wilungga festival to return to Geraldton in 2024 bigger and better, celebrating Aboriginal culture

A festival celebrating Aboriginal culture through art, music and dance will be back in Geraldton bigger and better next year — and this time it will feature a unique “on-country” photo competition and exhibition.

The City of Greater Geraldton this week confirmed Iwarra Wilungga would return to the Mid West on Saturday, April 6 at Queens Park Theatre.

The family-friendly event will open with a traditional welcome to country and smoking ceremony, followed by performances by Aboriginal dancers, bands and solo musicians.

Workshops and stalls providing authentic Aboriginal experiences will be set up, with people given the opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal culture.

Mayor Jerry Clune said: “Iwarra Wilungga was hugely successful in its inaugural year (2022) and we have been working hard to ensure that it will be even more popular this time around.

“Not only will this event be a rollicking good time, it will also provide festival-goers with a fantastic opportunity to broaden their knowledge of Indigenous culture.”

Community members are invited to submit photos that encapsulate the “best moments on country”.

Prizes will be awarded to the winners, while all successful entries will feature in an exhibition hosted by the Museum of Geraldton between March 23 and April 29. Winners will be announced on stage at the festival.

Photos must be submitted before Monday, January 15 via the City’s website.

The festival has been provided funding by Tourism Western Australia through its Regional Events Scheme.

Groups or people keen to take part in the festival can email the City’s Aboriginal engagement officer Denielle Riley at denieller@cgg.wa.gov.au.