STOMPEM GROUND RETURNS

PLAN TO REVIVE MUSIC FESTIVAL

 GEOFF VIVIAN

Plans are afoot to stage Broome’s unique Aboriginal music festival for the first time in 20 years.

Kija man and Kimberley Stolen Generations founder Mark Bin Bakar, who jointly owns the brand name, revealed plans to revive Stompem Ground.

Dr Bin Bakar said owing to the uncertainty of COVID restrictions a showcase concert of Kimberley musicians and four traditional dance groups would be held at Broome Civic Centre on May 27.

“We are doing the Lock ‘em Down Stompem Ground, a mini showcase, on the 27th, as part of the 21st Anniversary of Kimberley Stolen Generations,” he said.

“They’re the producers.”

Dr Bin Bakar, who is also the Kimberley Stolen Generation chairperson, said the date also marked the anniversary of the 1967 referendum which gave Aboriginal people citizenship.

A full outdoor festival is planned for the Queens Birthday weekend later in the year.