Belgrave Survival Day

On Thursday the 26th January, 2017, Belgrave Survival Day will celebrate its 10th consecutive year. We will once again celebrate Indigenous culture and the survival of Australia's First Nations people through 228 years of white settlement. This year’s festival will focus on the theme of ‘Knowing your local history, and as always is a free family friendly event.

This year we are excited to again have Benny Walker on the stage as our lead act with his band. His love songs and epic tales are mixed with passion for the land, the people, summer vibes and deep grooves are elements that reach the soul.

We also welcome back The Deans, who will bring classic sounds and grooves with velvet smooth vocals, sweet harmonies, soaring heartbreak guitar, deep Motown bass grooves and hip-shaking rhythms. They are sure to get you moving.

Benny and The Deans will also be supported by Gunditjmara singer songwriter Jayden Lillyst. Jayden tells stories of his people through a dose of country rock mixed with soul and blues.

As well as the fabulous voices of the Mullum Mullum Choir and the vibes of the Hip Hop Crew. Then be calmed as you participate in a Digeridoo Mediation with Gnarnayarrahe Waitiarie (Uncle Joey).

This year our theme focuses on understanding our local history. If there is one action a person can do to show solidarity and start to bridge the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous people it is to get to know your local history. This year we are excited to announce award winning author Bruce Pascoe who will share stories from our local history. Author and historian Jim Poulter will also have a stall with books outlining Victoria’s indigenous history.

The Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony will be led by Wurundjeri elder and educator, Uncle Bill Nicholson, followed by traditional dances performed by ‘The Djirri Djirri’ dance mob where the audience will be invited to join in. Aunty Dot Peters will also grace us with her presence and share some of her wisdom.

There will be plenty of activities to keep the kids (and adults) busy with fun music and dance, art and craft opportunities and more. As well as the children’s playground.

Soak up the atmosphere on a picnic rug in front of the stage or a stroll around the market and information stalls. Catering for all food requirements, including traditional bush tucker and a variety of food trucks. This event is alcohol-free.

Due to parking limitations around the park we strongly encourage people to catch public transport, Carpool or park at Belgrave Train Station where you can get the shuttle bus provided by Belgrave Survival Day organiers or take a quick 5 minute walk to Borthwick Park.

The event will be simulcasts on 3MDR 97.1 FM.

For further information or comment please do not hesitate to call Bonnie Zuidland 0427 568 644 or via e-mail at survivalday@gmail.com.

Or facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Belgrave-Survival-Day/
Or facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/553168944882354/

When: 26th January 2015
Time: 12 noon – 4.30pm
Where: Borthwick Park (next to Belgrave Pool) Benson St, Belgrave. Melways reference 75/F11

The event is organised by a committee of volunteers and we invite new volunteers to help with preparations for the festival or to assist on the day.

Please catch public transport as the parking spaces are limited.