GUMARAA DANCERS

Gumaraa dance performances and music are a vibrant and captivating way of showcasing Australia’s rich Indigenous culture. Traditional dance was usually performed at ceremonies for a number of different reasons – one being to ensure a plentiful supply of plant and animal foods. The dances would imitate the movements of the animals they hunted.

Gumaraa bring a powerful and moving presence to the Bunaan (Dance Circle) in the Uncle Buddy Kirby Ganya at Giiyong Festival.

Richard Campbell, founding member of Gumaraa says:

I was born in Kiama NSW, from Yuin Nation South Coast Australia. My Fathers Totem is Umbarra, meaning ‘black duck’ and my Mother’s Totem is Guunyuu, meaning ‘black swan’. I bring cultural teaching to my community through dance, art and knowledge from my (Gumaraa) ancestors and have represented my country and people in hundreds of cultural ceremonies. I am passionate about delivering knowledge passed down by my Elders in a culturally safe environment delivered with the true spirit of the land. Qualified in youth work, I develop a strong rapport with participants and aim to become a positive role model and mentor to all.

I am also an Aboriginal artist and have been painting all my life. I paint ‘From My Dreaming from the Gadhu People’ and have had numerous exhibitions in Australia.

Richard’s work will be on sale at Giiyong Festival in the Gumaraa stall in the Gungunyala Markets.

Gumaraa is an Aboriginal cultural experience and education company that delivers authentic Indigenous experiences for all, based on the traditions of the Dharawal and Yuin Nation.