Dance, song and ceremony have been a part of Aboriginal culture for thousands of years; they are a way to share knowledge, culture and stories, an important part of every day. They are intertwined with the deep connection to Country, the source of life for all Aboriginal people.

Our foyer exhibition, curated by Len Waters (Kamilaroi Man), thematically pays tribute to First Nations musicians and their connection to Country. Highlighting and linking the two main resources for Aboriginal people produced by the land – that of wood and rock.

Linking local stories and histories to the First Nations artists who made an impact on his life, Len endeavours to display how the inclusion of First Nation country music artists onto the mainstream airwaves allowed for First Nations people to tell their truth. With their mainstream popularity giving First Nations performers a voice where once they were silenced or ignored by wider Australia. That voice has enabled them to make the Nation aware of past experiences, atrocities and issues and has helped to bring about change. 

First Nations musicians, and the songs they have written and sung, are part of the musical history of our Nation. This story has evolved from the gospel music they heard played in church missions, to their exposure to touring international and Australian country music artists who brought a new world of music to regional and remote Australia. First Nations musicians often use the connection of music to Country to share important life lessons, cultural practices and stories about the history of Aboriginal Australians, the oldest living culture in the world.

The trailblazers of First Nations country music are displayed on both foyer walls to represent the incredible part they played in the history of the Country Music industry, whilst also recognising and celebrating the amazing history, rich culture, strength and resilience of First Nations peoples.