Kobie Dee Announced As Headliner For Final Ngana Birrung Festival

Ngana Birrung Festival will make its fourth and final return to Western Sydney this coming May for a vital celebration of rising First Nations stars in Australia.

Hosted by the City of Parramatta, Ngana Birrung (meaning “Black Stars” in Dharug) has been a catalyst for amplifying the diversity of Australia’s budding First Nations talent. Over three separate Western Sydney locations, and in partnership with Campbelltown City Council and Penrith City Council, Ngana Birrung has warmfully hosted the likes of Briggs, Miiesha, DOBBY, Kaiit, JK-47, Miss Kaninna, Kootsie Don and A.Girl.

For their final edition, Gomeroi artist Kobie Dee will be headlining the festivities. Since launching his career in 2022, Kobie Dee has captivated audiences both local and internationally, sharing stages with fellow First Nations artists Jessica Mauboy, Nooky and Barkaa, and playing standout sets at festivals in Germany and London, and at Yabun and the Sydney Opera House locally. Bringing it all back home, the Bidjigal native will soundtrack this year’s Ngana Birrung alongside Majeda, Riah, G.Rilla, K.Law, and DJ Mali. 

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As Ngana Birrung is set to wrap up this year, City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zalter declares its final run will be an “unforgettable celebration of culture, music and unity”.

“Ngana Birrung is a collaborative music initiative bringing together multiple Sydney councils to create a space for First Nations artists to shine,” he said in a press release.

“While Parramatta is an emerging global city, it is equally important to respect its past and we are proud to host Ngana Birrung to celebrate over 60,000 years of First Nations culture through an exciting music festival.

Ngana Birrung kicks off in the lead up to National Reconciliation Week on the 27th of May to the 3rd of June. As such, they will host a free, three-night concert series at Campbelltown Arts Centre on Thursday May 22nd, Sherringham Reserve on Friday May 23rd and Parramatta Town Hall on Tuesday 27th of May. Tickets are free but registrations are required here.