A landmark cultural journey that took local Aboriginal dancers to the other side of the world is being celebrated through a special photo exhibition at Wollongong Library.
The exhibition marks 20 years since the Wadi Wadi Mixed Tribe Dance Troupe travelled to Ohrid, Macedonia, in July 2006 as part of a Wollongong City Council delegation. The visit made history, with the troupe becoming the first Aboriginal dance group to perform in Macedonia, appearing at the city's Summer Festival.
Curated by Wollongong City Libraries' Local Studies team, the exhibition features photographs, video and personal stories from the trip and is on display at Wollongong Library until 30 September.
An invite-only gathering during NAIDOC Week brought together troupe members, family, community and guests to commemorate the journey. Uncle Roy Stewart, Mark Mongta, Ivan Morris, Solkan Donaczy and organiser Aunty Sharralyn Robinson recalled their experiences, including the large amount of community support they received for the trip, the excitement of travelling overseas for the first time, and the warm welcome and "rock star treatment" they received in Macedonia. A minutes' silence was held for former Troupe member Anthony Moore, who was represented by his daughter Toni Chant.
The anniversary project also includes six newly recorded oral histories from those involved in the trip. These recordings are now part of Wollongong City Libraries' local history collection, helping preserve the story of the troupe's groundbreaking cultural exchange for future generations.
Community members can view the exhibition at Wollongong Library during regular library opening hours before it closes on 30 September.
