Djeera Gadhu (Ocean Stories): NAIDOC Week Panel & Concert

Our newest First Nations Composer in Residence, Nicole Smede, curates a program of deadly First Nations music and conversation to celebrate NAIDOC Week 2027.

Nicole Smede is a Warrimay woman and multidisciplinary artist based on Yuin Country, working across sound, voice, poetry and installation. Her beautiful work Djeera Gadhu (Ocean Stories) takes centre stage, offering a powerful sonic reflection on connection to Country, culture and the natural world.

Following the performance, join Nicole and a panel of First Nations artists and creatives for a lively, inclusive and interactive conversation exploring contemporary First Nations perspectives on music, creativity and cultural practice.

Presented in the welcoming and intimate space of Church Street Studios, Camperdown, this is an opportunity for deep listening, open-hearted conversation and connection - celebrating the richness, diversity and vitality of contemporary First Nations creative practice.

Join us for a yarn - to learn and listen. Be part of the conversation.

“...when First Nations artists are given space to lead, what emerges is a true reflection of the land.” – Happy Mag

“A team of incredible composers, mentors, and Ensemble Offspring’s musical interpreters, coming together to empower First Nations Voices” – Limelight

Program

Panel with Nicole Smede, Sonya Holowell and invited First Nations artists

Program curated by Nicole Smede (First Nations Composer in Residence 2027-28)

Event Duration: 90 minutes

Performers

Nicole Smede (voice)
Claire Edwardes (Artistic Director, percussion)
Lamorna Nightingale (flutes)
Chelsea Fu (clarinets)
Ronan Apcar (piano)

Panelists

To be announced

Ticket Prices

General Admission $25*

Students $10* (Student ID required)

Free MobTix available for First Nations Attendees

*Booking fees apply

Photo: Sonya Holowell by Keith Saunders. Artwork by Amanda Edwards.