Step into the heart of BIGSOUND and discover Goolwal Goolwal, our First Nations curated and led program dedicated to empowering and amplifying Indigenous voices. Nestled within the bustling epicenter of Fortitude Valley, home of the southern hemisphere's premier music gathering, Goolwal Goolwal beckons you to immerse yourself in its powerful currents. This deadly program is overflowing with sessions embedded across all of BIGSOUND.
Make sure you drop into The Goolwal Garden (The Sound Garden), our First Nations House. Here, amidst thought-provoking panels, electrifying showcase performances, and exclusive events, you'll find more than just music — you'll find a community. Downstairs resonates with beats and rhythms, whilst upstairs offers a sanctuary of calm, where you can unwind with a cuppa, engage in workshops, and explore captivating art displays. Entry is free until 5:30 pm daily, with ticketed showcases and events extending into the night.
Our dedicated First Nations team is a constant presence throughout BIGSOUND, providing unwavering support to Indigenous artists and allies. Whether you're forging connections, seeking resources, or simply sharing stories, our team ensures that every voice is not just heard but celebrated.
Join us at BIGSOUND and experience Goolwal Goolwal, where the essence of culture and creativity intertwine to inspire and uplift.
BIGSOUND would like to acknowledge the invaluable support and contributions of the First Nations Consultancy Group, bringing diverse expertise and knowledge from a range of mediums.
“It has been a fantastic journey over the past years at QMusic witnessing the increasing engagement and recognition of First Nations artists at Goolwal Goolwal, BigSound and other events such as the Queensland Music Awards.
First Nations artists and musicians play a vital role in the Queensland music industry. Music is a powerful tool to ensure that First Nations voices are heard loudly and proudly.
Goolwal Goolwal is a signature event that brings people and cultures together through the sharing of music and deeply personal stories that have a lasting and profound impact on everyone involved.
We look forward once again to an amazing program in 2025!” - Toni Janke, Chair - First Nations Advisory Group.
Toni Janke is a First Nations singer/songwriter with family ties to the Wuthathi, Yadhaigana and Meriam peoples of Cape York and Murray Island in the Torres Strait, North Queensland. Growing up in Cairns and Canberra, she began singing and playing guitar at a young age. Toni has released multiple albums on her own label and written hundreds of songs. A prolific performer, she regularly gigs locally and at festivals. Toni has won national awards and is well-known in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. With over three decades in Indigenous affairs, she also mentors and serves on various boards.
Will Pawa-Oui is a proud Meriam man who is passionate about diversity and inclusion for all First Nations peoples and is a dedicated cultural and mental health advocate in the music industry. As the founder of Pawa Haus Creative, he aims to empower and uplift First Nations and BIPOC creatives through many creative projects as a musician and artist manager. Will is also a radio host for 'Let's Talk Black Arts' at Triple A Murri Country Radio Station.
Deline Briscoe, a talented singer-songwriter from the Yalanji people. Deline's musical journey has seen her share the stage and studio with iconic artists such as Archie Roach, Bart Willoughby, and Emma Donovan. These collaborations have not only showcased her versatility but also demonstrated her commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and stories through music. Deline also co-runs Gaba Musik, a platform to produce, publish and share music and support Indigenous artists.
Kiwat Kennell is a proud Eastern Torres Strait Islander artist, producer, and advocate holding a Bachelor of Audio Production from the SAE Institute. He has collaborated with the likes of Joel Quartermain (Eskimo Joe) and Dan Sultan, and hosts 3RRR’s ‘The Exchange.’ As a creative consultant and Digital Media Coordinator at Koorie Heritage Trust, he champions Indigenous voices.
A proud Yuwaalaraay man, Warren was born in Dirranbandi Qld, raised in Goodooga NSW, and now lives in Lutruwita. As an experienced artist for three decades, in recent years he founded Tin Camp Studios to provide a safe and welcoming space for unique music and cultural events. Considered an emerging musician in his 50's, his artforms are a reflection of who he is, where he comes from and healing past injustices.
Nathaniel Andrew is a proud Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri and South Sea Islander (Vanuatu) man with blood ties to the Ngarrindjeri, Wadi Wadi and Wiradjuri peoples. Originally from Mackay, Queensland, Nathaniel brings over 25 years of experience in the music industry, spanning performance, education and leadership. Nathaniel currently serves as the Senior Manager of the National Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Music Office (NATSIMO), an Indigenous-led initiative of APRA AMCOS.
Michaella, a proud Bidjara woman from Carnarvon Gorge, brings over 15 years of experience in the music, events, and cultural industries, with a deep commitment to strengthening First Nations rep-resentation and cultural safety. As the First Nations Engagement Manager for QMF & QLD Music Trails, she ensures First Nations artists, audiences, and Traditional Owners are central to over 25 annual events, embedding culture beyond performance and into event planning, partnerships, and community engagement. Michaella also sits on the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMA’s) First Nations Advisory Group, advocating for increased representation and opportunities for First Nations artists across the industry.
Weaving the magic behind the scenes is our Goolwal Goolwal producer and First Nations QMusic team. They are committed to delivering an impactful diverse program, that will amplify and celebrate First Nations artists, industry workers and community.
First Nations Music Officer
Producer
