The Milbi Festival will return in 2021 featuring exciting new events, including a collaboration with the popular Lighthouse Festival.
The 10-day program will this year be held between October 29 and November 7.
An annual celebration of all things arts, culture and environment, Bundaberg Regional Council events portfolio spokesperson Cr John Learmonth said Milbi Festival 2021 was an event for the entire community to enjoy.
“From cultural dining experiences to free family fun, Milbi Festival offers unique and meaningful experiences which connect community and culture and celebrate this incredible place we call home,” Cr Learmonth said.
“Centred around marine turtles, for which our region is internationally renowned, the festival promotes awareness, inclusivity and togetherness.”
Cr Learmonth said the Bundaberg Regional Council event was made possible through a partnership with the Port Curtis Coral Coast Trust, Bundaberg Tourism and a range of local businesses and organisations.
“We are so excited to this year bring what has traditionally been known as the Lighthouse Festival into the Milbi event and create one big community celebration.
“There are many new elements to the 2021 program which we are excited to launch in just a few short weeks.
“Some exciting announcements are yet to come, so watch this space.”
The newly formed River Nations Dancers will be performing at a number of Milbi Festival 2021 events.
River Nations CEO Norelle Watson said the group formed in February this year and was made up of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from schools throughout the region.
After already making their debut at major events, including the Taste Bundaberg Festival and NAIDOC events, the troupe is excited to participate in the arts and culture focussed festival.
“Each student dances with a deep pride in their Indigenous heritage that has shone through in a number of events since the group’s formation,” Norelle said.
“The students have represented their schools with dignity and pride, displaying a deep sense of culture in each of the presentations in the public arena.”
Norelle encouraged residents to participate in Milbi Festival 2021 events for the opportunity to see the River Nations Dancers in action.
“Each student’s commitment and consistency throughout each presentation is a joy to watch.
“Twenty-seven students are involved in the program, representing their families, school and community in a culturally inclusive and spiritually strong presentation at each event they perform.
“The Indigenous Elders of our community are proud of the way the students conduct themselves and they are capturing everyone’s hearts and attention with every performance.
“The students dance with purpose and passion, sharing the traditional songlines of their ancestors.
“Most importantly, they have fun, they are totally immersed in their culture and walk away from each performance, steeped in the knowledge of who they are and where they come from.”
The Milbi Festival 2021 program is set to be launched within the next three weeks featuring a range of free and ticketed events.
