AN ancient Nyungar creation story about the origins of our clear, shimmering skies has inspired the theme for the City of Cockburn’s home grown Youth Week WA 2018 festival.
The Illuminate Festival – Djoondal Djoomba (Nyungar for shimmering skies) will be held at Coogee Beach Surf Life Saving Club 12pm-4pm on Saturday.
Organised and delivered by several young people from the area with support from Cockburn Youth Services, the free event is set to shine a positive light on the future of youth, highlighting mental and physical health.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOWYouth Development officer Gemma McDonald said the event had been organised by a diverse group of seven local teenagers, giving an authentic Cockburn flavour.
Volunteer organiser Alyson Godden said she jumped on board the project because she was keen to get more involved in community events.
“I really wanted to step up my leadership and have better teamwork skills, and this was the perfect opportunity,” she said.
Murdoch University Hospitality and Tourism Management student Breeanna Ross is the volunteer event manager for the event.
“This experience has shown me the work required for a job that is similar to what I hope to do in the future,” she said.
“It’s been really rewarding.”
Djoondal Djoomba will kick off with an Acknowledgment of Country by well-known young Nyungar didgeridoo musician Tim Kelly, followed by a full program of active, artistic, musical and creative pursuits.
Creative workshops will include tie-dye t-shirts, Dreamtime animal sculpting, decorating a bunting installation, performances by Lakelands Senior High School music students, Aboriginal dancers, Cockburn’s Got Talent finalists, and the Burundi Peace Choir – plus live DJ sets, three-on-three streetball comps and beach volleyball.
For information visit Cockburn.wa.gov.au/youthservices or or phone 08 9411 3882.