Thursday, September 24, 2026
By Michael Warren
Yarrabah came together at Jilara Oval today for the Gurriny Yealamucka Yarrabah Wellbeing Festival, with a large crowd enjoying a day focused on health, culture, connection and community spirit.
The festival created a welcoming space for community members and families to connect with one another, have a yarn, meet local services and enjoy entertainment and activities in a relaxed setting.
Music from Djun Djun Jarra, Black Crubians, Late Notice and Normey Jay provided a lively soundtrack throughout the day, while the David Mundraby Dance Troupe brought culture and performance to the program.
Children and families were kept busy with face painting, a petting zoo, water slide, jumping castle, games and prizes.
The festival also provided opportunities to engage with health and wellbeing information and local services. Reflexology, a free fruit and veg bar, yarning and conversations were among the wellbeing activities available, alongside tea, coffee, lunch and water.
The strong community turnout reflected the value of bringing health and wellbeing activities into a setting where people can participate, connect and enjoy time together.
For Gurriny Yealamucka Health Services Aboriginal Corporation, the festival provided an opportunity to bring its health, wellbeing and community-focused work into the heart of a community celebration.
Clinical and community wellbeing services worked alongside opportunities for cultural connection, social interaction and wellbeing activities in Yarrabah.
The festival was a positive celebration of Yarrabah community life, with Jilara Oval providing the backdrop for a day of shared experiences, conversations, entertainment and connection.
