The new worlds of the digital era, including Comic-Con, music, sound production, screen performances, compositions, and animation, are being shaped by bold, innovative voices of the future. These voices are telling stories through modern mediums, yet they remain deeply rooted in the ancient, timeless tradition of oral storytelling, blending the past and the future to create a unique and powerful narrative. Join Molly Hunt and Mark Coles Smith in this engaging panel talk as they explore how these art forms continue to evolve and connect with audiences around the world.

His work in country music is timeless, not only as a musician but also as a guardian of Australia’s musical heritage. With 45 Golden Guitars, 9 Deadly Awards, and 6 ARIA Awards, his influence on the music industry is immense. As an author, he is preserving the essence of what it means to come from a long line of storytellers, creating material that is deeply rooted in a profound connection to the land. The ballads of this country music legend echo the soul of the land.

Both Michael Liddle and Ken Lechleitner focus their projects on the enduring nature of kinship systems, language, and cultural reclamation, that endeavours to improve representation and participation. For them, working with men involves challenging existing narratives by creating spaces where there is no silence, and addressing issues through practical initiatives designed for our men. These efforts are grounded in the wisdom of ancient First Nations philosophies.

Singer, songwriter, and musician Bumpy has been the creative force behind her band, Squid Nebula, for several years. Recently, she has stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist, delving into deeply personal themes. ‘Return Home’, is more than just a beautiful song—it features her transformative voice and meaningful lyrics. Through her music, she emphasises the timeless significance of memories and the places we call home, reminding us of the profound connections that shape who we are.

The Parrtjima Festival Reference Group plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing cultural knowledge, representing the skin Arrernte groups and traditional estates of Mparntwe, Antulye, and Irlpme. As cultural guides, they host the festival and uphold a philosophy of responsibility for the stewardship of their homelands. Holding and transferring this knowledge is seen as a “cultural imperative” that is deeply valued for protecting, maintaining, and adapting traditions to ensure their relevance in the 21st century.

The magic of moviemaking offers Australian audiences a profound glimpse into the world of First Nations people and culture, highlighting a shared humanity. Through documentaries, feature films, and musicals, these stories of truth capture pivotal moments in time and history, reflecting unique Indigenous perspectives. Acclaimed filmmaker Rachel Perkins, along with other industry leaders, will explore how storytelling through film promotes social change, fosters understanding, and serves as a powerful tool for communication. Offering a gateway to narratives that are often difficult to express through written words, this discussion challenges us to engage deeply and explore our experiences—whether comedic, dramatic, or heart-wrenching.

Black excellence is driven by the next generation of young leaders, who are finding solutions through cultural immersion, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of their heritage. Many young people have faced chaos and challenges within their environments, but by strengthening our cultural economy, we can foster a strong and empowered Black future. Armani Francois joins the discussion to explore how positive influences play a crucial role in guiding youth—particularly those seeking a “rush” through negative behaviour—toward a path of purpose, identity, and connection to their homelands and communities.

First Nations media, particularly Aboriginal radio, is a trusted and essential source of news, offering a platform for Indigenous musicians while providing humour and entertainment. Unapologetically Black, Aboriginal radio amplifies diverse voices from communities across Australia, representing various language groups. Radio’s strength lies in delivering real-time updates, creating a strong connection between listeners and their favourite personalities. Rudi Bremer joins the discussion to explore how First Nations media continues to evolve, ensuring it remains a powerful and relevant platform while staying true to its roots in audio storytelling.

Interpreting goes beyond simply translating spoken words; it involves a deep understanding of cultural considerations. A key focus is ensuring that individuals feel included in the narrative of their own stories. In high-profile court cases, interpretation becomes even more critical, as it helps distressed family members by facilitating communication between legal teams and the court. This requires the use of complex language, protocols, and cultural metaphors that connect timeless kinship ties, empowering communities by presenting ideas through a culturally relevant lens.

‘Still No Justice’ is more than just a song—it’s a powerful statement addressing the Black Lives Matter movement, Aboriginal deaths in custody, and racism. The song, inspired by the 2019 shooting death of Kumanjayi Walker, urges Aboriginal youth in Alice Springs to steer away from crime and grow into cultural leaders. DEM MOB have made a significant impact. They work across the APY Lands, using music to help students improve their literacy skills, rapping in both English and Pitjantjatjara languages. With family ties to iconic Aboriginal bands like No Fixed Address, Yothu Yindi, and Coloured Stone, their influence runs deep.

Artists today work across a variety of mediums, from canvas and digital designs to graphics and diverse colour palettes, yet the art and stories they share remain deeply connected to a living collective memory. Alyssa Mason and Emrhan Tjapanangka Sultan bring their unique perspectives to this discussion, exploring how timeless stories—told through ceremonies, carvings, and rock art—continue to shape contemporary artistic expression. There is significant cultural importance in using distinct Indigenous art styles and iconography, with a vast diversity of designs. These traditional markings are more than decoration; they serve as maps of landscapes and worlds, connecting us through songlines. By reading the art, we can trace identity and lineage, recognising subtle markings that signify Country and belonging.