New East Arnhem festival spotlights Northern Territory musicians

The East Arnhem Live music festival, located just outside the township of Nhulunbuy, is expanding beyond the digital realm, to bring a celebrated collection of artists and DJs to East Arnhem Land across three days from 30th September to 2nd October 2022.

East Arnhem Live is a Yolŋu Radio initiative and is funded by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, the Northern Territory Government, Developing East Arnhem Limited and ARDS Aboriginal Corporation.

Gathering some of the most inspired and creative Yolŋu musicians, East Arnhem Live will be an exploration of the best music from East Arnhem Land and across Australia - a new must-attend event for music lovers looking for fun, adventure and something a little different.

The artist line-up, in alphabetical order, includes Andrew Gurruwiwi Band, Arafura Swamp Band, The Beddy Rays, Dhapanbal Yunupiŋu, East Journey, Emma Donovan and the Putbacks, Garraŋali Band, Julian BelBachir, Salt Lake Band and Wirrinyga Band. DJs just announced include Monkey Marc and Walrii – and each day will include traditional Yolŋu buŋgul.

Exciting events and breakthrough bands have recently reinforced Arnhem Land’s spot on the map - and East Arnhem Live is set to bolster that even further.

NT Minister for Major Events, Paul Kirby noted “It’s great to see Territory artists and musicians making their mark on the music scene and being given the opportunity to perform at East Arnhem Live.

“These events help put the spotlight onto local talent and highlight the best the Territory has to offer in terms of music and landscape.”

Yolŋu woman and Artistic Director Rosealee Pearson enthused “we couldn’t be more excited! East Arnhem Land is home to spectacular landscapes, some of the most well-known First Nations artists, and one of the oldest living cultures on Earth.

“The East Arnhem Live festival will be a fusion of everything that makes this area of Australia unique – with a whole lot of fun thrown in.”

Festival committee member and member of renowned East Arnhem band Yothu Yindi Stu Kellaway adds “we wanted to create a festival that was a huge celebration – it’s two worlds, coming together for a good time over three days of music.

“East Arnhem Live will be a truly unique festival experience that could only happen in Arnhem Land, and we can’t wait to share that. We hope that it will be a platform for discovery of some of the incredible musical talents on the line-up that call this part of Australia home."

Visitors are encouraged to check out accommodation and other tours via the Visit East Arnhem website