2012 Belgrave Survival Day

The fifth annual Belgrave Survival Day will be held on January 26th 2012 from 12-4PM. The event acknowledges the indigenous perspective on the 230 years of European occupation of Australia, and celebrates the survival of the oldest living culture on the globe through live music, storytelling, traditional dance and craft.

This year will feature exciting performes from the Yung Warriors will be the first indigenous hip hop act to perform at the event when they play at the 2012 event. Also appearing are renowned performer Lou Bennett. Traditional stories by Gnarnayarrahe Waitairie and the Jindi Worobak Dance Troupe. Wurundjeri elders will be undertaking a smoking ceremony.

Stalls will include activities for children, indigenous food and art and craft stalls and information stalls on a range of indigenous political issues. The day will be MC'd by Leila Gurriwiwi from the Marngrook TV show.

Speakers will include in Elder Aunty Dot Peters from Healesville, Gary Presland and Rodney Augustine from the Save the Kimberly campaign.

The event is held at the Borthwick Park Reserve 5 minutes walk from the Belgrave township. This outdoor venue allows people to relax under the trees or as they wander amongst the stalls.

The event is organised by a committee of volunteers and generously funded by the Yarra Ranges Council through their Festivals and Events Grants

The Belgrave Survival Day gives people a chance to not only be educated and entertained but by their presence at the event they can help take a stand on Australia Day. A stand that recognizes the ongoing historical wrongs done to the Indigenous people of Australia, and a stand for a future for all Australians based on justice and mutual respect.

For more information about the event closer to the day look us up on Facebook or visit our website: www,belgravesurvivalday.org