This year, we’re proud to launch the Regional Summit Artist series, uplifting regional artists and young people. At KYC, we know the importance of connecting with and honouring local communities when we visit, ensuring that respect, care, and understanding guide our time on Country. That’s why we’re passionate about commissioning artists from the lands where we gather.
For the 2025 Koorie Youth Summit, we are honoured to work with Dylan J Charles, a proud Yorta Yorta, Boonwurrung, Wurundjeri, and Wiradjuri man. Dylan is the great-grandson of Simon Wonga and King Billy (Billibellary), Wurundjeri Ngurungaeta of the Eastern Kulin Nation, and grandson of Aunty Marlene—one of the longest-serving Aboriginal educators in Australia.
An artist for over 10 years, Dylan’s journey began at Wulgunggo Ngalu, an Aboriginal men’s cultural healing center on Gunai Kurnai Country. Painting became a way for him to heal, reconnect with culture, and guide others in doing the same. After studying at GOTAFE Shepparton, he continued his artistic practice, using art as a tool for community healing and storytelling.
THE ARTWORK & STORY
Dylan’s artwork for the Summit represents the journey of Dhungalah (Tongala), the Rainbow Serpent of Biami, who carved out the river systems that sustain life. The story follows Biami sending Dhungalah to find his Winyarr (wife) after a great storm, tracing her footprints, the markings of her digging stick, and the tracks of her dingoes. As Dhungalah moved through the mud, his twisting body formed the curves of the river, which the rain then filled—bringing life, sustenance, and connection to Country.
“I chose this story for the KYC summit because this story reminds me of the future generations, the journey of culture and contribution, that they will offer in their lifetime; the social economic changes, the transformation of self and others and of country, the cultural practice, and the ongoing connection with country they will demonstrate and achieve. When I think of the youth and their journey, I see the rainbow serpent moving across country with power and purpose. Biami is our creator, and we have the power to create change like he created us and Dhungalah.
Gulpa Gaka Yorta Yorta woka walla kaiela dhungala marangan murrabit Djibauga Djetja gunya manu gaka yawal ngulla yenbana Yorta Yorta Yakurrumudja whuta nurra nhana Galnyan Muma bangarra Bome Ina ngalan woka
Welcome friends to Yorta Yorta country as you walk with us along our river and country whisper so our old people remain at rest take pleasure in our lands our country our rivers show respect and respect everything you see.”
– Dylan J Charles
Registration Details:
Opens: 7th April 2025 at 11AM. Closes: 5th May 2025 at 5PM. Limited tickets available – Max 5 per person/organisation
For group bookings, email: admin@koorieyouth.org.au
Register via the link below:
