Gurindji Freedom Day Festival - August 22nd, 23rd & 24th 2025
The Gurindji Freedom Day Festival commemorates the iconic events of the 1966 Wave Hill Walk Off and birth of Aboriginal Land Rights. The storey is an epic tale of bravery and struggle taught in schools and immortalised in the song From Little Things, Big Things Grow.
On August 23rd 1966, two hundred Gurindji, Mudburra and Walpiri people took a stand against poor working conditions and injustice when they walked off Lord Vestey’s Wave Hill Cattle Station. Led by Vincent Lingiari, this action sparked the national Land Rights movement. The iconic image of Whitlam pouring sand into Vincent’s hand continues to be a symbol of unity and inspiration for all Australians.
Every August, people from across Australia gather on Gurindji country for the Gurindji Freedom Day Festival, a celebration of Land Rights, self-determination and community success.
The Gurindji people invite you to journey into the heart of the Northern Territory for a unique and memorable weekend of arts, culture, music and sports.
FREEDOM DAY MARCH: The festival begins with a Welcome to Country and a colourful Freedom Day march, which follows the footsteps of the 1966 Walk-off to Lipananku (Victoria River).
WAJARRA CEREMONY: The last remaining elders of the Walk-off are joined by the new generation and special guests to share their stories of struggle, triumph and hope for the future. This followed by Wajarra, keeping the story of Freedom Day alive through cultural dance and song.
ART EXHIBITIONS AND WORKSHOPS: The Karunkarni Art Exhibition displays incredible works created by highly talented local artists.
MUSIC: Freedom Day is arguably the best remote community music line-up in Australia. Big name national acts to bush band legends have the crowds kicking up dust as they dance with fireworks to light up the night sky. Past performers have included Paul Kelly, Baker Boy, Kev Carmody, Dan Sultan, Warumpi Band and Remi.
SPORTS: The Freedom Day sports carnival sees teams from across the Northern Territory battle it out for the Vincent Lingiari shield. Basketball and AFL uniform designs tell the story of local family’s connection to culture and country.
