Baradine was on song last month when 290 children from over 71 schools and 22 local government areas came together for one of Moorambilla Voices’ annual residency camps.

Cobar, Coonabarabran, Baradine, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Coolah, Dunedoo, Narromine, Trangie, Collarenebri, Nyngan, Bourke, Lightning Ridge, Walgett, Warren and Brewarrina were all represented by young people from local schools.

Well known for its amazing work with young people, Moorambilla Voices encourages young people to think big, dream wide and connect to country through their annual multi-arts program.

There are plenty of learning opportunities to choose from including choral singing, Japanese Taiko drumming, dance, and visual arts – all aiming to empower participants to find their voice, passion, and their path for the future.

The theme for 2024’s program is ‘The Spirit of Water’ and this year’s camp drew inspiration from Uncle Badger Bates’ extraordinary leadership. Badger (William Brian) Bates is a Barkandji Elder who was born in Wilcannia. In May he led an artistic and cultural immersion at Murawintji National Park.

Founder, Artistic Director, and conductor of Moorambilla Voices, Michelle Leonard OAM said it was wonderful to see the children at the Baradine camp being able to absorb themselves in the images and sounds of the landscape and waterways experienced during the Immersion, thanks to the new audio-visual infrastructure at Baradine Hall.

“For the first time, we had use of a large screen onto which we could project images from the immersion, so while the kids were learning the new pieces that were informed by this important place, they could see and almost feel it all around them,” she said.

This technology also allowed organisers to share a preview of the short film their MAXed OUT ensemble created at the Taiko Intensive camp held in April earlier this year.

“They were so delighted to see themselves and their hard work realised up on screen. Especially because, often in art, you work hard and don’t always see the results for yourself as an ‘audience member.’ It was powerful and exciting for the kids to do so,” Ms Leonard said.

“The Moorambilla residential camp experience puts our young performers well out of their comfort zone. And yet, with a determination that belies their age, we see children from eight to 18 work in sessions facilitated by professionals to create performances that are deeply connected to Country with an energy that is a true reflection of their collective ability".

Fun facts from Baradine

Organisers reported some 'fun facts' from the camp.

The residency camp included 290 kids, 3612 meals, 49 volunteers, 15 professional artists and an untold number of smiles, games of Uno, giggles, and friendships. And no doubt plenty of exhausted adults!

At the August camps, children learned new skills in a new environment, collaborated, made new friends, developed confidence, and ultimately come together to create a body of work that we will be performed at the Dubbo Regional Theatre over three gala performances on September 28 and 29, 2024.

For more information on the camps, and the upcoming performance in Dubbo, head to www.moorambilla.com.