In the festival’s first instalment, and a first for the region, the one-day event is set to be held at Rumbalara Football Netball Club with a star-studded line-up of First Nations artists.
The Treaty Day Out outdoor event is being held as a celebration aimed at raising awareness and support for Victoria’s path to Treaty.
It has been set for Saturday, February 26, by the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria to coincide with a by-election in which First Nations people will vote on their North East representative for the Treaty process.
Voting on the four candidates will begin on the day of the festival and close March 27, to be completed either online, via post, text or at one of the 27 polling locations.
Proud Rumbalara premiership hero and Yorta Yorta artist Scott Darlow is on the bill alongside other Shepparton names, Briggs and Archie Roach.
Originally hailing from the area, Mr Darlow said he was keen to get back to the football and netball club to play live at the festival.
“I think this show will be one of those ones that we’ll remember for a really long time because of what it's about,” he said.
“When it’s your own mob that are acknowledging you, that's a much more special, significant thing.
“The bill is also really special — it will be incredible to be playing with Uncle Archie and Briggs and Yothu Yindi.”
The bill features a range of artists, many from around the region, including both Wulumbarra and Madi Colville-Walker.
Heading the line-up is Yothu Yindi, the iconic band that created an anthem for the Treaty movement, taking the message from the Northern Territory global.
First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria head of engagement and communications Amy Rust said the event was likely to be big.
“The fact that we now have more than 2000 tickets registered so far shows the interest in First Nations musicians and celebrating Aboriginal culture,” she said.
The day is was shaping up to be a memorable one from start to finish, and not only due to the music on stage — Ms Rust said there was something for everyone.
Eight food trucks will grace the grounds along with 12 craft and business stalls, kids’ activities and culture activities, and AFL Goulburn Murray will put on football clinics.
“Of course there will be the opportunity to talk about Treaty with the First Peoples’ Assembly members that will be there on the day,” Ms Rust said.
A mobile vaccination clinic from the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation will be available for patrons on the day.
Tickets are available for purchase online at www.treatydayout.com with limited available on the gate on the day.
Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are enrolled with the assembly will be given free entry to the concert. Eligible people can enrol at any time online at www.firstpeoplesvic/org/enrol
Non-First Nations people and those who aren't enrolled will be able to purchase tickets for $50.
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