Ngarrama 2025

Now in our fourth year, the University of Newcastle is proud to welcome the community once again to Ngarrama.

This free public event, in partnership with Awabakal Ltd, the City of Newcastle and NGM Group (Newcastle Greater Mutual Group), will return to King Edward Park on 25 January.

Ngarrama is an invitation for all to bring along your friends, family and a picnic blanket to engage in meaningful reconciliation through truth-telling, performances, song, and historical acceptance.

Ngarrama is an opportunity for the Newcastle community to come together on the eve of Australia/Survival Day to reflect on traditional life in Mooloobinba before 1788 and to celebrate the richness and resilience of First Nations culture - in particular the Awabakal and Worimi people, the traditional owners of the land upon which Newcastle now stands.

Ngarrama translates to 'to sit, listen, and know’. As the name captures, it will be a time for listening and quiet reflection through the sharing of stories, knowledge and culture.

FEATURING:

Jodan Perry as MC
Mari Mayi
Midnight Dreaming
Winanga-y Dreaming
Minimbah Dancers
Curious Legends illuminated puppets
A sea creatures lantern parade for the kids - collect your DIY kit from the lantern tent from 6.30pm

• Ngarrama is a free event but please book a ticket in advance.
• Please note this is an alcohol free event, please BYO all food and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Food will not be available to purchase on the night.
• The use of mosquito repellent is recommended.

Artwork

Created by Belle Leonard, Guuguu Yimithirr artist, designer and University of Newcastle Bachelor of Visual Communication Design graduate.

The Ngarrama artwork is a digital painting of the Nobbys coastline and surrounding landscape before European settlement. Throughout the artwork are traditional Aboriginal symbols (campsites, animal tracks, and fish) to acknowledge how the traditional custodians of this land would have depicted their surroundings in art.

Belle is passionate about producing unique branding and imagery for clients as well as creating art that holds meaning and tells stories.

Instagram: @dontbebelle

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

King Edward Park, Reserve Road, Newcastle, Australia