On the Vaucluse Estate there is a series of distinctive ceremonial engravings, carved thousands of years ago, which depict the migration of whales. The engravings tell a story of Aboriginal connection to country and the whale migration signifies revitalisation and birth of a new generation.
The Whale Festival invites visitors to share and preserve this history through the tradition of stories, dance and ceremony. Aunty Vivienne Mason, from Yuin Country, will lead the Welcome to Country and Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness group will conduct a smoking ceremony, followed by a performance of Nangmbi Muryira by the Djaadjawan Dancers.
Fred's Bush Tucker will cook up local fish, which provides a cultural connection to the harbour for the Birrabirragal people, and colonial gastronomer Jacqui Newling will cook up whaler’s ‘pot luck’ seafood stew referencing Sydney’s early whaling industry.
It's free to attend, but you'll need to register online before the day.