JAMBA NYINAYI FESTIVAL 2025: CELEBRATING LOCAL TALENT AND CULTURE

The Jamba Nyinayi Festival returns for its third year in April, following its successful beginnings in 2023. The festival, held in Coral Bay and Exmouth, focuses on involving the local community through music and arts workshops.

“We started by holding songwriting workshops in Carnarvon, aiming to get local musicians and singers involved,” David Hyams, the festival organiser, explained.

“Each year, we continue to create original music that reflects the festival’s theme, and it’s something that’s really taken off with the community.”

The festival’s goal is to showcase local talent while involving artists from outside the region to create a well-rounded program.

The music lineup for 2025 features some big names and familiar faces. “This year, we’re bringing Shane Howard, formerly of Goanna Band and Black Arm Band,” said Hyams.

“I had the chance to play with Shane on the Songs for Freedom tour, so we’re really excited to have him back.” Howard will perform with a band made up of local musicians, including Roy Martinez and Todd Pickett. Also performing will be Gina Williams and Guy Ghouse, known for their Noongar songs.

In addition to the musical performances, workshops will be held throughout the event. Hyams shared, “We’ve had great responses to the workshops in past years, so we’re bringing back Razi, who’ll lead a hip-hop workshop. Participants might even get to join him on the main stage.”

Other workshops include visual arts, weaving, jewellery making, and discussions on Baiyungu culture and language, led by Hazel Walgar.

A new feature for this year’s festival is the film program. “We’re setting up screenings at the Sharing Shed, a classic old venue that’s perfect for an evening film session,” Hyams said. The program will include a selection of Indigenous short films, followed by a feature film on Easter Sunday.

Jodie Bell is involved in curating the program, and Hyams is excited about this new addition to the festival’s lineup.

This year’s festival promises a full schedule of activities. Along with the music and workshops, there will be a spiritual healing workshop, and attendees can book their spots in advance.

The full program, which includes all workshops and events, will be available at the end of February on the Jamba Nyinayi website. “We’re still finalising a few things, but it’s shaping up to be a great event,” Hyams said.

The festival is shaping up to be a well-rounded cultural experience that combines music, art, culture, and now film, offering something for everyone.