Please tell readers about Rivers to Recognition – how did the concept form and what are the aims of the concert?
It began when a group of local residents, through GetUp OutWest, thought about the concept of a Rock for Recognition concert for the western suburbs and Hobsons Bay. We had some initial conversations but actually resourcing and delivering the concert was always going to be difficult without partnerships and other help. A conversation was started and a number of other councils became interested. The aim of the concert is simple: to celebrate good music, to celebrate culture, and to celebrate the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the First Australians.
You’ve got an incredible lineup for the show, which features Archie Roach, Frank Yamma, Radical Son and more. Why the choice to make the concerts free?
The lineup is indeed incredible and thanks should go to Jill Shelton, Roach’s manager. Shelton’s been extremely helpful in securing some of the best contemporary artists in Australia. By collaborating, we’ve been able to share the costs and make it free because we want as many people down there as possible. It’s about making music accessible to everyone. It’s also about the richness of Indigenous culture and it’s about bringing the recognition of Aboriginal Australians to the forefront of our minds. Music is such a great way to do that.
How have you worked with Reconciliation Victoria and other City Councils for this event?
When we first got together we talked about a concert and a few other opportunities – but as they say, from little thing big things grow. Now, we’re planning community forums and educational events as part of the Rivers to Recognition initiative. Originally the main theme was constitutional reform but we soon realised that it was much more than that. That’s what we mean by Rivers to Recognition. It’s about the confluence of several rivers – a confluence of culture, ideas, people and good music.
RIVERS TO RECOGNITION takes place this Sunday December 7 at Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown from 1pm to 6pm.
