For the first time, Noongar language, song and dance has been showcased in Croatia at the International Folklore Festival.
The 3rd International Folklore Festival Split was held across four days in Split.
The festival's aim is to showcase the rich culture and heritage from different countries.
This year's festival featured performances from Georgia, Ukraine, North Macedonia, Romania, Mexico, Uruguay and, for the first time, Australia
In a performance titled ‘Kaya Croatia’, Noongar men and women Derek Nannup, Rickeeta Walley, Isaiah Walley-Stack, Robyn Smith Walley and Rodney Garlett from the Kaya dance group performed in front of 20,000 people.
Derek Nannup, Rickeeta Walley, Isaiah Walley-Stack, Robyn Smith Walley and Rodney Garlett performed in front of 20,000 people. Credit: nemi
Mr Walley told The Examiner that he was proud to represent Noongar people and culture.
“In the capital, Zagreb, they displayed the Australian and Aboriginal flags on the main city’s water feature. It was the first time they had ever put a different country’s flag up in the main city.
"That’s when it really hit me and registered that, oh wow, we’re actually representing more than just ourselves here.
“It was a huge honour to represent our country and our people.”
The Aboriginal flag was also projected onto the city’s water fountain in the country's capital, Zagreb.
Indigenous Arts Foundation CEO and Noongar man Phil Walleystack said that it was a special moment to be able to share Noongar culture with those who may not normally be aware of its significance.
Isaiah Walley performed on the yidaki. Credit: nemi
"It is so important for young Aboriginal people to travel overseas to share our culture because they get to experience the true value of our culture by people who have never seen it before, rather than those who might take it for granted," he said.
