EVENT POSTPONED - Students, staff and the broader Armidale community are in for a warm winter treat this month when internationally acclaimed rapper Baker Boy and local favourites Terra Firma takes to the stage on Wednesday, 7 July as part of this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations.
Known as the “fresh prince” in his native Arnhem Land, Baker Boy first came to prominence in 2017 when his single Marryuna finished 17th in Triple J’s Hottest 100. He was named Young Australian of the Year in 2019 in recognition of his work across rap, dance, and acting, and was awarded an Order of Australia medal in 2021.
When asked why UNE and Armidale, Baker Boy replied “I love being able to give back to the community, especially during NAIDOC week! I'm excited to be heading out to UNE to perform!”
NAIDOC Week and this year’s theme Heal Country! is also close to his heart.
“Healing Country is really important for our future. Looking after the land is deeply rooted in my culture, so in healing and caring for the land we are, in turn, also keeping our culture strong for future generations,” Baker Boy said.
The UNE Tjawanpa (Tjawanpa is the Anaiwan word for ‘winter’) Festival is a free community event although, to comply with COVID regulations, booking is essential. The event will take place in the UNE residential precinct and include live music, food and drink vendors, a jumping castle for the kids, live music on stage and giant games for the young and the young at heart.
Activities will kick off at 4pm with a Student Fair provided by stallholders from UNE and the broader community, and residential college tours for future students. A Welcome to Country will be offered at 5pm before well-known local band, Terra Firma, takes to the stage.
Other activities include a smoking ceremony and performances by the talented Gorgon Aboriginal dance troupe before Baker Boy steps up to entertain the crowds.
Lead organiser and UNE student engagement manager, Luke Fowler, described the Tjawanpa festival as a welcome event for students and community members alike.
“We have worked hard to organise an event that showcase UNE’s campus as a welcoming, public space where our new students can truly get to know their new town and neighbours,” Mr Fowler said.
“With Tjawanpa we aim to celebrate the diversity of the Armidale community as a whole, acknowledge the importance of NAIDOC Week to UNE, and welcome new students to campus.”
EVENT POSTPONED - Register for this free event.
The Tjawanpa UNE Winter Festival is an alcohol-free event.
