The Undalup Association presents the Bunuru Festival at Pioneer Park in Cowaramup on Saturday, 22 February 2025, from 12 PM to 5 PM, celebrating Wadandi culture and community on Wadandi Boodja.
Now in its fourth year, this family-friendly, smoke and vape-free event invites both Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to come together, share stories, learn new skills, and enjoy an exciting line-up of entertainment featuring some of Western Australia’s best Indigenous talent.
On the Tronox Stage, the talented line-up of musicians includes Lexyanna, Stellar Moon, Boox Kid, and Maatakitj. Additionally, Corroboree for Life will perform a cultural dance with didgeridoo, Gerry Matera from Gather Foods will lead a Bush talk yarn, and MC, Ingrid Cumming, will conduct a Noongar language lesson. A collaborative live art mural with Hope Perth will also be created during the festival, along with a schedule or workshops and activities.
Attendees can enjoy a variety of local food trucks, including MR Smash, Little Hand Dumplings, and Bella Napoli, along with two ice cream trucks (Gather Foods and Berry Bliss) and coffee vendors. An Elders Tent will provide a space for reflection and connection.
A diverse range of stalls will showcase Indigenous wares and art, featuring vendors such as Deadly Denim, Yalkarang Consulting, Owl Friendly, Judy Bye, and Margaret Gidgup.
Undalup Association Chair Zac Webb emphasized the festival’s role in fostering community ties, saying, “It’s about bringing community together, on country, to celebrate country. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone out there, friends and families connecting and enjoying the music, crafts, and activities.”
Zac added, “I’m really looking forward to the day where our family can celebrate culture alongside the wider community that live and work on Saltwater Country.”
Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and water vessel to enjoy the day.
The Bunuru Festival is proudly supported by Lotterywest, Tourism Western Australia, The Shire of Augusta Margaret River, Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, Tronox, Wormall Group, Miki’s Open Kitchen, and AHOY Management.
More about Undalup Association:
Undalup Foundation shares the culture, traditions, knowledge, and history of the Wadandi people with the broader South West communities. The Association aims to impart an understanding of the importance of Boodja (Country) and teach the significance of and respect for the Wadandi Elders and Traditional Custodians.
Through the development of genuine partnerships, Undalup embraces Aboriginal culture, believing that shared ownership of projects and cultural events will lead towards a more reconciled and respectful future. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and draws everyone into the cultural, spiritual, heritage, and historical aspects of the area.
Undalup intends to work with local businesses, groups, organisations, and industry to increase awareness of the southwest as a destination where Aboriginal culture is strong, vibrant, and diverse. The Association is committed to developing sustainable Aboriginal tourism products and experiences in consultation with Aboriginal communities.
More about the artists:
Lexyanna (previously known as Leanna Shoveller)
Lexyanna’s music is inspired by her life’s journey, heritage, language, and the stories passed down through generations. Singing since the age of five, her passion for music has only deepened over the years. A defining moment in her musical journey occurred in 1992 when she performed at the Stompem Ground Festival. Later, as part of her family band, Lexyanna used music to tell stories and connect with others. Each song she creates reflects her journey, values, and culture. Singing in Karajarri brings her heritage to life, allowing her to share its beauty with the world.
Over the past 20 years, she has performed solo across Western Australia, using her music to share her culture and language. Her songs bridge the past and present, connecting audiences to the essence of her journey and celebrating diversity. Music has been her lifelong companion, shaping and inspiring her every step as she expresses the beauty and depth of the world around her.
Boox Kid
Jarred Wall, known as Boox Kid, is a local music producer and artist who draws inspiration from his Indigenous heritage, showcasing stories through his visionary electro-pop sound. Kid is a proud Noongar man delivering unique electro singer songwriter pop. A cross genre performer, Boox Kid recently starred as Wundig in the West Australian Opera’s production of Wundig Wer Wilura for Perth Festival 2024. Boox Kid’s talents were utilised in the City of Perth ad campaign and TourismWA most recent advertisement with Daniel Ricciardo. Performances include WAMfest 2023, Nannup Music Fest 2023, BIGSOUND 2023, opening support for George Ezra at Kings Park, opening for Rockwiz and the Hoodoo Gurus.
Maatakitj
Maatakitj is a Noongar songmaker from the south of Western Australia, known for electrifying desert blues and dance music. He reimagines new songlines, incorporating contemporary sounds into traditional narratives. Maatakitj has collaborated with renowned artists such as the Kronos Quartet, five-time Grammy Award winner Angelique Kidjo, and ARIA Award-winning producer Paul Mac, showcasing his ability to bridge genres and cultural influences.
Stellar Moon
Stellar Moon is the stage name of Monique Le Lievre, a Nyikina woman from the Kimberley. Her music delivers a diverse range of songs infused with soul, rock, funk, blues, and folk elements. Through her empowering lyrics about self-love and connection to country, Stellar Moon aims to inspire her audience. With 20 years of experience performing in cover bands and as a singer-songwriter, she has supported notable artists like Daryl Braithwaite and The Waifs.
Ingrid Cumming
Ingrid Cumming is a Whadjuk Noongar woman from Fremantle, Western Australia, and the founder and CEO of Kart Koort Wiern (Head Heart and Spirit). With a background in leadership and reconciliation, she has presented at various conferences, including TedXPerth 2014, and has represented Indigenous Australian business internationally. A graduate of Murdoch University and Melbourne Business School, Ingrid’s work focuses on promoting Indigenous knowledge and strengthening community ties. She is also a passionate advocate for youth and reconciliation, believing that her Indigenous heritage is a source of strength and inspiration in her entrepreneurial journey.
(images : supplied)
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