Songs with a beat – Yabun 2009

What would a day held so special in a nation’s heart be without its lingo, colloquialisms and ironies? Well those attending “Yabun” (song with a beat) found more than you could poke a “boondi” at, much of which came from the mouths of gifted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MCs. Wire MC and Sista Agz. Main stage at the nationally acclaimed Indigenous concert ironically held upon a tract of Gadigal land re-named after a former monarch, Victoria Park. Here, significant generic terms such as “gammon” (pulling your leg), “walung” (money) and “djilewa” (toilet) were used fleetingly throughout the day reports Adam Hill in the South Sydney Herald of February 2009.

Harmony prevailed with a diversity of nations represented, demonstrative why just one flag, made popular by the major tabloids, seems illogical. This day now sees the largest representation of clans peoples of Koori, Goori, Murri, Nunga, Pallawa, Wongi, Yamatji, T.I. Yolngu, Tiwi, Bama, Anangu and welcomed visitors. Some of the latter who adorned themselves with the above mentioned flag represented a clan of “higher allegiance”, often traversing the grounds in pairs. Nonetheless, a mutual respect was upheld on this day of immense reflection.

Credit to the organisers for collating incredible talent. A clever re-location of the main stage made for comfortable viewing of some of our most celebrated senior performers. Also, fresh vocals of Nadeena Dixon, Casey Donovan and Dewayne Everett Smith. Moving with the times, hip-hop extraordinaires, Tjimba & the Young Warriors, drew the “jarjums” (kiddies) to the stage. Fine bush foods were on offer as were a variety of arts including visual, poetry/literature, fashion and craft. Reunions and yarns were rife in the “elders’ tent”. AFL legends convened a kicking comp, and a break dance comp for those with too much energy took place at the opposite end of the park.

For more information and images, visit www.gadigal.org.au .

Photo: Eve Gibson

Source: South Sydney Herald February 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au

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Songs with a beat – Yabun 2009

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