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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Douglas Smith in Arnhem Land

Indigenous leaders look to the future at Garma: ‘People are feeling strong again’

Russell Gurruwiwi of the Gumatj clan before the bunggal during the 26th Garma festival in Gulkula, Northern Territory
Russell Gurruwiwi of the Gumatj clan before the bunggal during the 26th Garma festival in Gulkula, Northern Territory. Photograph: James Ross/EPA

In 1999, when the Garma festival was conceived in north-east Arnhem Land, Yolŋu leaders knew the potential it had to bring about change.

“I seen it. Mandawuy and myself, we seen it … it’s gonna be big,” says Rirratjingu clan leader Witiyana Marika, who was one of the leaders at that first meeting held in someone’s back yard.

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