As the majestic whales complete their annual migration along the South Coast, Giiyong Festival presents a profound discussion exploring the ancient and ongoing significance of Whale Dreaming. This special panel invites audiences to deepen their understanding of the cultural, spiritual, and environmental connections between whales and First Nations peoples — their totems, stories, responsibilities, and teachings that extend across Country and beyond.

The Disccusion Panel Features:

Walbanja Yuin Elder Aunty Vivian Mason, renowned for her advocacy in women’s culture and dance with her daughters and granddaughters leading Djaadjawan Dancers, and their beautiful representation of Muriyira (whale). Aunty Vivian is a staunch Matriarch, and states:

“I encourage our women to take their rightful place in our strong matriarchal society.”

Whaledreamer, Medicine Man, Songman, Artist and Mirning Elder Bunna Lawrie from the Nullarbor Plains, visiting Giiyong with legendary rock band Coloured Stone. In his words:

“To Mirning people, and to me, whales are family. Whales tell us how to live, the coming of the seasons. Our special law times are arranged around the comings and goings of whales.”

Inspirational Gunditjmara, Djiringanj, Walbanja Thaua, Ngarigo woman Yaraan Stewart Bundle, Koontapul yakeenij — a whale dreaming custodian of Gunditjmara and founder of SOPEC (Southern Ocean Protection Embassy and Collective). As Yaraan shares:

“Every day, I am in such deep gratitude of how clever my old people were, and are, and how we are built, were born to carry this on.”

The discussion will be facilitated by “Giiyong Festival Twin Flame” Amanda Jane Reynolds of Stella Stories — curator, possum cloakmaker, cultural educator and custodian of Guringai women’s Blue Whale Dreaming and Guruwal Yuin Whale Dreaming.

With thanks to Uncle Richard Campbell of Gumaraa for inspiring this important whale yarn-up for the Giiyong 2025 talkfest on the Aunty Alice Moore Stage, this panel promises to be both deeply moving and enlightening. Expect wisdom, song, and perhaps even some whalesong — an unmissable conversation honouring the deep and enduring relationship between people, whales, and Country.