The Baalijin Community Night, part of the Connecting Baalijin Kids to Community project by the 3rd Space Mob Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation, marked a significant celebration of life and culture this week. This event also witnessed the launch of a new clothing line, ‘Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr,’ from JiJA Designs. Baalijin Community Night: Celebrating Culture and Connection
Aims and Vision
The primary goal of the Connecting Baalijin Kids to Community project is to reconnect young people in the Bellinger Valley Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr (Country) to their roots and community, especially those who had been isolated due to COVID-19 restrictions. This initiative is pivotal in fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride among the youth.
The Event
The Baalijin Community Night event was a vibrant gathering that brought together local artist Lisa Kelly, a proud Gumbaynggirr woman of the Bellingen Valley residing at Yellow Rock Urunga, and Year 12 First Nations students from Bellingen High School. The event also welcomed young First Nations individuals who had recently attended the high school.
Lisa Kelly’s work in storytelling through contemporary and traditional art forms extends to fashion and design. Her new clothing range, titled ‘Gumbaynggirr Wajaarr,’ was showcased by young community members, Ms. Kelly herself, Uncle Micklo Jarrett, and Troy Robinson.
Community Engagement
The night saw an impressive turnout of 130 local Aboriginal and wider community members. The high school’s hospitality staff and students catered the event, serving a delectable three-course bush tucker meal. “They served some of the best Kangaroo steaks I’ve ever eaten,” said Mr. Robinson, highlighting the quality and cultural significance of the food.
The venue was transformed with stunning lighting effects designed by local teachers and students, using Ms. Kelly’s designs. The atmosphere was further enriched with music selected by Ms. Kelly and the models, creating a unique and immersive experience for all attendees.
Reflections and Impact
Jenni Farrands from 3rd Space Mob described the event’s atmosphere: “It’s hard to describe the feeling in the room – joy, togetherness, enthusiasm – total wellbeing.” This sentiment encapsulates the success of the evening in fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.
Future Directions
Connecting Baalijin Kids to Community is generously funded by Resilience NSW as part of their COVID-19 Community Connection and Wellbeing Program. This funding is crucial in supporting ongoing efforts to reconnect and uplift the community through cultural initiatives.
The Baalijin Community Night was not just a celebration but a testament to the power of cultural connection and community spirit. Through projects like these, the 3rd Space Mob Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation continues to make meaningful strides in supporting and enriching the lives of young people in the Bellinger Valley.
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Source: https://nit.com.au/07-06-2024/11878/jija-designs-launches-gumbaynggirr-wajaarr-fashion
