BW Tribal Blog

Harmony Week 2024
Harmony Week has officially kicked off, an annual celebration embracing the melting pot of cultures that make Australia truly unique. From the enduring heritage of our First Nations people to the stories of those who've joined us from every corner of the globe, this week is all about inclusivity, respect, and a shared sense of belonging.
ILF Releases 5 New Bilingual Books
The Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) has been up to some amazing work, launching not one, but FIVE new bilingual books. These books come straight from the heart of remote communities, bringing to life stories written and illustrated by incredibly talented First Nations authors and artists.
Why 'Blak'? The History Behind The Spelling
The term 'Blak' traces its origins back to 1994, attributed to the creative vision of Aboriginal artist, broadcaster and political activist, Destiny Deacon. Deacon sought to reclaim and redefine the word 'black' from the derogatory labels and misrepresentations imposed by non-Indigenous people.
Ocean Guardian – Malu Yawa Garka by Brian Robinson
A story unfolds in the heart of the Barrier Reef, one that intertwines the ancient lore of the Torres Strait Islands with the pressing narrative of ocean conservation. Brian Robinson, an artist with roots deeply embedded in Torres Strait Islander heritage, brings to life 'Ocean Guardian', a cast iron sculpture that has become a poignant symbol of environmental stewardship.
Celebrating Indigenous Brilliance at the AIATSIS 2024 Summit

From the arts to education, health, and governance, the Australian Institute for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) 2024 Summit, will showcase the multifaceted contributions of Indigenous communities. It's an opportunity for academics, legal experts, community and cultural sectors, and government representatives to come together, share ideas, and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures and knowledge.

Blak & Bright Literary Festival Returns to Melbourne
Melbourne/Naarm is gearing up for the return of the Blak & Bright Literary Festival, a significant event dedicated to celebrating and uplifting First Nations writers and storytellers.
Indigenous All Stars Women's Rugby League Win
The Indigenous All Stars, led by the dynamic duo Jaime Chapman and Kimberley Hunt, showcased their skills and determination, securing a solid 26-4 victory over the Māori All Stars. Chapman and Hunt were on fire, each crossing the try line twice.
The Evolution of Aboriginal Australian Languages
Australia's linguistic landscape is as vast and diverse as the continent itself, with over 250 Indigenous languages, including around 800 dialects, each intricately tied to the land, culture, and identity of its people.
The Importance of Aboriginal Australian Documentary Films
At the heart of Australia's culture, Aboriginal documentary films are a powerful medium for preserving and sharing the stories, history, triumphs and trials of Aboriginal Australians. These films offer a unique window into the lives and resilience of the world's oldest continuous culture, providing a platform for Aboriginal voices to be heard and understood on a global stage.
Reclaiming Rights: Mervyn Street and the Indigenous Stolen Wages Settlement
'Stolen wages' is a term that hits hard amongst Indigenous communities. It refers to the decades, even centuries, where Indigenous workers were either not paid for their labour or were paid a pittance compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts.

Driven by his parents' stories of withheld wages, Mervyn Street, a stockman in Western Australia has decided to launch a class action lawsuit against the WA government on behalf of thousands of Aboriginal Australians.
Indigenous Wisdom in Environmental Conservation
Aboriginal Australians have been custodians of their land for over 65,000 years, developing a deep understanding of its intricacies and how to live in harmony with nature. Recognising and leveraging this wisdom is crucial for ensuring the preservation of Australia's unique natural heritage.
Aboriginal Storytelling: Keeping Oral Histories Alive
Have you ever sat around a campfire, completely engrossed in a story that seemed to transport you to another time and place? That's the magic of oral history, a storytelling tradition that runs deep in Aboriginal culture. Tales of The Dreaming, epic accounts of creation, and whispers of the land's secrets passed down through the ages like precious heirlooms.
Wear Your Pride: 5 Reasons Why NAIDOC Fashion Matters
With the recent announcement of the NAIDOC 2024 theme, ‘Keep The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’, it's the perfect time to delve into why investing in NAIDOC clothes & accessories is a statement of pride, allyship, and admiration.
7 Ways to Engage in NAIDOC Week 2024
NAIDOC Week 2024 is an exciting time to celebrate and learn about the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Here are seven easy ways you can get involved in NAIDOC Week 2024 activities
5 Unique Aboriginal Art Gift Ideas
Sometimes finding the perfect gift can be a bit of a challenge. Here are 5 Aboriginal art gift ideas that not only celebrate Indigenous Australian heritage but also add a touch of culture and meaning to everyday items.
NAIDOC Week 2024: Keep The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud
The theme for NAIDOC Week 2024 has just been announced - "Keep The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud". This year's theme is a powerful message that resonates deeply with the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture.
Summer Fashion Guide: Aboriginal Art Women's Clothes
As we battle out the thick of Aussie summer, it's good to know that BW Tribal's got your back, ladies! Our range of women's polos, blouses, and t-shirts, all bursting with authentic Aboriginal art, offers not just style but also maximum comfort and functionality, making them ideal for slogging out the summer months.
Key Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dates in 2024
As we step into 2024, let's celebrate the enduring cultures and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to our shared Australian story. Here's to a year of learning, respect, and celebration!
Ring in the New Year with Unique Bush Tucker Cocktails
Grab your shakers and let's dive into these exciting concoctions using native ingredients -  perfect for your New Year's Eve bash!
Torres Strait Islander Art
An introduction to Torres Strait Islander art: At its heart, Torres Strait Islander art has a deep connection with the sea, land, and sky, elements that are central to the Islanders' creation stories and spiritual beliefs. This connection is vividly expressed through printmaking, weaving, mask-making, and dance.
An Indigenous Christmas Story
'Samting Speshul' (Something Special) was originally written in Kriol over 30 years ago by school student in the Northern Territory. The story narrates the tale of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, as told from a shepherd’s perspective.