Stompem Ground festival makes triumphant return in celebration of Kimberley Stolen Generation’s 21st birthday

The Stompem Ground music festival will make a triumphant return later this year with famous acts like Midnight Oil, Blekbala Mujik and the Pigram Brothers set to rock the crowds of Broome. After a 22-year hiatus, Stompem Ground, will return for one night only on Saturday, September 17, in celebration of the Kimberley Stolen Generation Aboriginal Corporation’s 21st birthday and the 25th anniversary of the Bringing Them Home Report. Presented by the Kimberley Stolen Generation, Mary G Foundation and Mellen Events the event will showcase contemporary and traditional Aboriginal music, dance and culture. Festival director, Kija man and Kimberley Stolen Generation founder and chair Dr Mark Bin Bakar, also known by his stage name Mary G, said he is thrilled that the Kimberley Stolen Generation’s 21st anniversary has allowed for the event’s rebirth. “As a creator of Stompem Ground, it was sad that it didn’t continue after 2000,” he said. “It was due to lack of funding support, vision and recognition of the importance the festival had for the region, particularly as a major tourist attraction. “Then with my entry into private enterprise, my life became engrossed with working with Mary G touring nationally.” Now with the hotly anticipated festival returning, Mr Bin Bakar said the event also aims to promote awareness for Aboriginal issues and celebrate the work of the Kimberley Stolen Generation. “Its inclusivity encompasses the diverse aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait people and cultures,” he said, “The line-up was chosen for its uniqueness and dedication to making greater change. “The band (Midnight Oil) has more than given us support over the years and is loyal to the movement.” Midnight Oil front man Peter Garrett said he was excited to return to the Kimberley festival after 24 years. “We jumped at the opportunity to play Stompem Ground again,” he said. “Reconnecting with people in Broome, celebrating culture and the extraordinary Kimberley region and being among lots of great bands and performers — it’s going to be very special.” Mr Bin Bakar said it is now time for Australia to step up and create positive change for the nation. “From compensation to the Stolen Generations to the Uluru Statement from the Heart, and the call for transparent and inclusive aspects of Indigenous people of Australia to be part of mainstream Australia,” he said. “Reconciliation must go all the way to make a difference.” You can buy tickets for the festival at the Stompem Ground website stompemground.com.au.