Swinburne NAIDOC Celebration 2026 Free Community Event
Join Swinburne for a free NAIDOC 2026 celebration at the Hawthorn campus on the 2nd of September. Hosted by the Moondani Toombadool Centre, the event brings together leading First Nations artists — including Kee'ahn, Pirritu, Richard Frankland and Kutcha Edwards — for a day of music, storytelling and shared culture.
All students, staff and community members welcome.
Our mob, our stories, our culture
Hosted by Swinburne’s Moondani Toombadool Centre, this event celebrates the power of storytelling in shaping Indigenous culture across generations through speaking, song, art, weaving and dance.
Together, we will recognise the stories that have underpinned NAIDOC for 50 years, while honouring the stories that continue to be created and shared. Join us for a community-led experience that celebrates the beauty and diversity of Indigenous culture.
Engage with Indigenous artists such as Kee'Ahn and Pirritu, and Indigenous businesses through activities, food, art, lectures, and activations. Staff, students and community are invited to come together in respect, curiosity and deep listening.
Artists on the day
Kee’Ahn is a Kuku Yalanji, Jirrbal and Torres Strait Islander songwriter and performer from North Queensland, based in Naarm. Blending soul, R&B and pop, their rich vocals and heartfelt songs move through vulnerability, resilience, healing and joy.
Pirritu, also known as Brett Lee, is a Ngiyampaa singer-songwriter, storyteller and educator whose gentle, melodic music explores love, sadness, hope and personal journey. His songs are intimate and honest, drawing listeners into a reflective and deeply human sound world.
Richard Frankland is a proud Gunditjmara storyteller, musician, filmmaker, writer and activist. One of Australia’s most respected First Nations creative voices, his work spans song, screen, theatre and literature, using art to speak truth, honour community and inspire change.
Kutcha Edwards is a revered Mutti Mutti singer-songwriter whose powerful voice carries stories of Country, family, survival and healing. A Stolen Generations survivor and Music Victoria Hall of Fame inductee, Kutcha’s songs are deeply soulful, generous and unforgettable.
Madi Colville Walker is a proud Yorta Yorta Winyarr and emerging musician whose songs share stories of culture, connection and personal growth. Since beginning her journey through the CMAA Junior Academy, she has become a compelling young voice in contemporary First Nations music.
Event schedule
* Final schedule / timetable subject to change
| Time | Main Stage |
|---|---|
| 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Official Welcome and Opening MC - Sean Choolburra Welcome to Country - Uncle Colin Hunter VC's Address - Interim Vice-Chancellor - Simon Ridings Cultural Performance - Ganga Giri and Djarlo Dancers PVC-IE Address - Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. John Evans |
| 12:00 pm – 12:30 pm | Elders Yarn MC – Sean Choolburra (Moderator) |
| 12:30 pm – 1:25 pm | Kutcha Edwards |
| 1:25 pm – 1:45 pm | Madi Colville Walker |
| 2:10 pm – 2:55 pm | Richard Frankland |
| 3:15 pm – 4:00 pm | Pirritu |
| 4:20 pm – 5:20 pm | Kee’Ahn |
Event contact
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Moondani Toombadool Centre
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Swinburne NAIDOC Celebration 2026 Free Community Event
Join Swinburne for a free NAIDOC 2026 celebration at the Hawthorn campus on the 2nd of September. Hosted by the Moondani Toombadool Centre, the event brings together leading First Nations artists — including Kee'ahn, Pirritu, Richard Frankland and Kutcha Edwards — for a day of music, storytelling and shared culture.
All students, staff and community members welcome.
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