On February 26, The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria will be hosting its first-ever Treaty Day Out, a one-day music festival aiming to raise awareness and support for the journey towards Treaty in Victoria.
Taking place in Shepparton on Yorta Yorta Country, the outdoor concert coincides with a by-election in which First Nations people in the state’s north-east will choose who will represent them in the Treaty process.
Leading the star-studded First Nations line-up is Yothu Yindi – the iconic band that created an anthem for the movement with their song Treaty. The Yolgnu band will be joined by Uncle Archie Roach, Electric Fields, Briggs and much more.
Co-Chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, and proud Nira illim bulluk man of the Taungurung nation, Marcus Stewart, said after such a tough couple of years in Victoria, it was time to celebrate.
“What a line up! From established musical heroes to cutting-edge new talent, the day will have something for everyone. We’re really excited to be back out in community and celebrating our culture and music again,” said Marcus.
A COVID-safe plan will be in place to help protect concert goers at the outdoor venue. Attendees will need a valid vaccination certificate to gain entry and are required to wear a mask at all times unless eating or drinking.
Bangerang and Wiradjuri Elder and Co-Chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, Geraldine Atkinson, said the key to having a good time will be ensuring that everyone follows the covid-safe rules.
“A lot of work has gone into the event to make sure it can go ahead in keeping with all of the best health advice. We’ve even arranged for our friends at the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) to bring the mobile vaccination clinic to the event, so you’ll be able to come along for an awesome day of music, show your support for Treaty, have your say by casting your vote in the by-election, and to top it all off you can also get your booster while you’re at it,” said Aunty Geri.
Head of Engagement and Communications at the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, and proud Kokatha woman from South Australia, Amy Rust said the COVID-safe concert will be free for First Nations people enrolled with the assembly.
Eligible people can enrol at any time online here. Non-Aboriginal people and those who aren’t enrolled will be able to purchase tickets to see this deadly lineup for only $50.
“The event will be held at the Aboriginal community-run Rumbalara Football Netball Club – a place of belonging and a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can call their own,” said Amy.
