The Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee festival saw a huge turnout on Saturday, 1st March 2025, as thousands gathered at Emu Plains Reserve in Balnarring to celebrate and connect with First Peoples’ culture.

Cr Kate Roper, who attended the event, described the atmosphere:

“Under a blue sky and the treed setting of Emu Plains, there were at least 2000 people present at this event, with many more across the day. There were dozens of stalls from schools, community groups, and environmental groups. The entertainment was well received, with plenty of dancing, especially to Mitch Tambo, whose rendition of Great Southern Land and The Voice are inspiring. There were hundreds of children there with families, and many of the local schools had a marquee set up. Most of the marquees were directed at activities keeping the children busy and educating them about culture, wildlife, and plenty of food.”

The festival had something for everyone, from cultural workshops and interactive activities to a diverse lineup of entertainment. Performers included Amos Roach, Djirri Djirri Dancers, Ganga Giri, Jess Hitchcock, John Wayne Parsons, Jalgany, Kee’ahn, Madi Colville-Walker, Neil Murray, and Wala Connections.

Held under the Stringybark gums on Boon Wurrung Country, the festival was a chance for the community to come together, learn, and celebrate Indigenous heritage in a welcoming and family-friendly environment.

With strong attendance and a vibrant atmosphere, the Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee continues to be one of the Mornington Peninsula’s most significant cultural events, bringing people of all ages together to honour and appreciate First Peoples’ traditions.