A full house gathered at the Sydney Writers’ Festival for Baraya Barray – Whale Song, a breathtaking evening of story, song, and poetry. 

This panel discussion led by First Nations artists and cultural leaders uncovers how poetry can celebrate cultural ways of sharing story and encourages us to listen more deeply to the wisdom of Country. 

Musician and composer Eric Avery sets the tone, opening with a violin performance inspired by the sounds of whales. Dhurga language holder, teacher and contemporary traditional dancer Elizabeth Luland, award-winning multi-disciplinary artist Kirli Saunders, alongside Eric Avery and host Luke Patterson share powerful stories of Country and kinship in this deeply moving and unforgettable panel, alive with cultural truth. 

Held at the Sydney Writers’ Festival in 2025, this panel was part of Red Room Poetry’s ground-breaking program for First Nations school children and communities, Baraya Barray - Whale Song. 

Baraya Barray - Whale Song celebrates the importance of First Nations languages and the natural environment. Through this program, young First Nations people connect with their community Elders, Language Custodians, scientists, poets and musicians to learn about and respond to the east coast Whale songline through the creation of poems, song and dance. Listening closely to our non-human kin and Country, it asks the question - ‘What can we learn from our first language holders?'

Learn more about Baraya Barray: https://redroompoetry.org/projects/baraya-barray-whale-song/