Smoke. Fire. Water. Earth. Dance. Song.

Kulin Tanderrum (ceremony) is the meeting of the five clans of the Kulin Nation: Wurundjeri, Boon Wurrung, Taungurung, Dja Dja Wurrung and Wadawurrung, and your invitation to join them on this land.

This Tanderrum had not been practiced here in Melbourne since 1835, but in the past four years it has become an integral moment in the commencement of each year’s Melbourne Festival. These are the first words spoken before the 18 days of stories and sensations that will follow: an opening ceremony and Welcome to Country by the First Peoples, the traditional custodians of this land.

Through Tanderrum, we acknowledge the lore of the creator spirit Bunjil and pay respects to the vibrant living culture of this country.

With sand, leaves and bark, a space is made, and it’s a space to be shared. Come dance.