First Nations artist, Rhyan Clapham is still digesting his first ARIA win.

Under his performance name, Dobby, Rhyan’s album River Story won Best World Album at the pinnacle awards for the Australian music industry last week.

With a proud heritage in Brewarrina, Rhyan said River Story celebrates the stories of the rivers which form around Bre, including the Culgoa and the Barwon. 

Seven years in the making, it is a pilgrimage to the stories of his family and community.

An activist and a musician, Dobby said it felt surreal to win the ARIA. “It’s definitely taken a few days to process. This is really special,” he said.

“This album is incredibly personal to me, born from the strength and urgency of my community. As a proud Murrawarri artist, River Story is a testament to our heritage, resilience, and the vibrant stories that flow through our rivers and culture.

“My grandmother Mary Clapham Nee Shearer was born and raised in Brewarrina. Her father, George Shearer, was born under the birthing tree on Murrawarri land on the Culgoa at Corella Station. 

"WARRANGU; River Story is a journey back home to my family’s history, a connection to Culture.”

Rhyan said he hoped the ARIA would create more focus and discussion on the issues impacting the Murray Darling river system. 

 “I hope this brings attention to the plight of those rivers and communities in the catchment.

“It's definitely a massive conversation that needs to be had. As things get more pressing on climate change, I’m hoping my music has its place and gives a bit of leverage – holding people accountable to the fish and the state of the river.”

He said there was no denying that the health of the river systems supported healthy communities. 

“The community thrives when the river is high. It all feeds into everyone's self-esteem. The health of the town, the fish and the ability to practise their age-old practises.”

LISTEN TO 'WARRANGU; RIVER STORY' HERE