We gather because we must. Join us amongst the sculptures of Lucy Simpson, as Uncle Matthew Doyle kindles fire and smoke and Nardi Simpson leads a joyous community chorus with songs spanning generations. Gather for a night of Blak song and ceremony and help close the Festival in a collective act of honouring. 

At sunset, sacred smoke will rise from Barangaroo through Lucy Simpson’s sculptural artwork HELD – contemporary vessels that hold culture, memory and flame. Celebrated composer and vocalist Nardi Simpson will lead singers from every generation in four songs that map our shared musical ancestry.

Tending the fires throughout this gathering is Uncle Matthew Doyle, maintaining the bridge between earth and sky. Together, these artists transform Barangaroo Reserve into sacred ground where visual art, music and cultural practice merge. 

This is a Vigil for all people. Learn the songs, raise your voice and stand together in this moment of shared memory, shared breath and shared hope as we honour those who came before and open a path to the future.