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For Ganga Giri and Henning Gerlt, First Nations Incursions is a passion project, born from a mutual love of the sound of the didgeridoo, and a legacy to create a sustainable and inclusive, positive future for Australia. Starting with the kids, our future leaders, we nurture understanding through experiential and enjoyable activities; a project aimed to encourage reconciliation, a deeper understanding of connection to Country and respect for the oldest living culture of the world.
Our initiatives extend beyond performance; they encompass educational programs designed to immerse participants in the tactile and experiential aspects of Aboriginal culture. By integrating these programs into classroom settings, we aim to provide a bridge to this rich culture, offering hands-on experiences that are both engaging and inspiring. These programs not only educate but also promote well-being and a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions of Aboriginal peoples.
Via a powerful fusion of traditional and contemporary expression, through music, art, history, movement and community engagement we invite all to experience the spiritual depths of Aboriginal culture, fostering a space where ancient wisdom meets modern understanding, promoting healing, connection, and cultural pride. Ultimately it is through deeper understanding and mutual respect that we can witness Reconciliation in action; for the future of all Australians to walk together to care for Country.
We are driven by a desire for people to understand our cultural practices and to share them in a way that helps you in your daily life, in a way that you can see universal similarities, and learn new tools that may be of assistance. Some key concepts in our culture that aid in health and well-being are shared here by Bunurong Elder, Uncle Mark Brown and Palawa performer and educator, Ganga Giri.
Connection to Country
In Aboriginal culture, the concept of "Country" transcends the mere physicality of land; it embodies a profound spiritual, cultural, and emotional relationship between Indigenous peoples and their ancestral territories. This connection is integral to identity, well-being, and the preservation of cultural heritage. The land, or "Country," isn’t merely a physical space but a living entity imbued with ancestral spirits and stories.
The connection to Country is recognised as a vital component of social and emotional well-being among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This holistic perspective encompasses relationships with family, community, land, culture, spirituality, and ancestry. Practices that strengthen this connection, such as mindfulness and meditation, are essential for maintaining mental health and overall wellness.
The Healing Power of Sound
The Yidaki, traditionally known as the didgeridoo, is more than an instrument; it's a conduit for
spiritual and physical healing. The practice of playing the Yidaki involves circular breathing, a
technique that promotes mindfulness and has been linked to various health benefits, including stress reduction and improved respiratory function. Scientific studies have shown that meditation practices, akin to those facilitated by Yidaki playing, can alleviate anxiety, pain, and depression, offering a natural pathway to mental health improvement.
The Yidaki produces low-frequency vibrations that can resonate deeply within the body.Playing the Yidaki involves a technique called circular breathing, where the player breathes in through the nose while simultaneously expelling air through the mouth. This continuous airflow is essential for producing the instrument's sustained tones. Regular practice of circular breathing can enhance lung capacity, improve respiratory efficiency, and strengthen the muscles involved in breathing. Notably, studies have indicated that didgeridoo playing can be beneficial for individuals with asthma, as it trains the respiratory system and may reduce symptoms.
Contemporary Initiatives and Practices
Modern initiatives continue to honour and revitalise the connection to Country. For instance,
"NgarayamÅ«rah – Listening to Country" is a meditation practice that encourages individuals to
reconnect with the earth and their inner selves through storytelling and guided reflection. Such
practices are designed to ground individuals, helping them manage stress and enhance their sense of belonging.
As you can see it is through the profound knowledge and understanding of Elders and educators like Uncle Mark and a willingness to share those teachings, a rich culture emerges prompting an undeniable understanding that we are all connected, we are all growing and learning from one another and this beautiful land we all inhabit.
First Nations Incursions offer a variety of art, music, movement and informational activities, all hands on and designed for fun and deeper learning. Our school assemblies often include an Elder who provides a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony followed by Ganga Giri performing a mix of traditional and modern didgeridoo along with uptempo beats.
In Aboriginal Culture Sean Candy discusses a range of authentic artefacts which are passed around; baskets, spears, boomerangs, animal skins and Marngrooks. Nikki Browne often takes her groups for a ‘walk and talk’ discussing bush foods and plants. In Fibre Craft she teaches about identifying plants, harvesting, dyeing, fibre preparation and weaving.
Our art activities include the opportunity for students to tell their own stories via traditional symbols, utilising natural paints like ochre and charcoal or to collaborate on large murals learning about moeties and bark painting.
And of course Didgeridoo lessons (males only) and presentations on this most wonderful instrument, the Yidaki or Didgeridoo. Ronan Howard loves to share the experience of Ultimate Boomerang Games where students learn to throw hunting boomerangs to accurately hit a target, and the art of effectively throwing a returning boomerang.
We endeavour to provide not only educational activities that are engaging and fun, but also leave a lasting impression, one which will ultimately help all to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders Cultures.
Didgeridoo Australia - First Nations Incursions
