Famous Indigenous singer Christine Anu has been announced as the headline act for Aurukun Shire Council’s inaugural Wik Rock concert to be held on Saturday 6 June.
Aurukun’s biggest ever community concert will see Anu headline a whole day of entertainment, including the Indigenous Hip Hop Project and a Battle of the Bands.
Anu, who has Torres Strait Islander heritage, has been nominated for an incredible 16 ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) awards since her first album Stylin’ Up was released 20 years ago this month.
Her big break was the release of My Island Home in the 1990s, a song originally recorded by the Warumpi Band almost a decade before.
The 45-year-old is currently on a national tour to celebrate her 20 years in the music industry.
Aurukun Shire Council Mayor Dereck Walpo said he was thrilled Anu would be performing in the remote Far North Queensland community.
“We’re absolutely delighted that someone of Christine’s legendary status has accepted our invitation to perform at this historic event,” said Mayor Walpo.
“It’s going to be a massive day and night for everyone in Aurukun, and we can’t wait for the big event.
“Our community is developing and moving in the right direction all the time, and this is another excellent example of how we’re striving to be the best we can.
“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to the PCYC Indigenous Programs, Glencore, Rio Tinto and Apunipima Cape York Health Council, who are major contributors to the event – without their support, this event would not be possible.
“I would also like to thank Island and Cape, Bendigo Bank and Skytrans, who have also been instrumental in providing the support we needed to make this event a possibility.
“This concert is a great chance for the community to come together in a fun environment.
“It’s going to be the marquee event of the year in the community, and we’re inviting all communities around Cape York to participate.”
Special commemorative Wik Rock Concert polo shirts have also been made and are available from Aurukun’s PCYC, and organisers are still accepting stall registrations, and entries into the dance and bands competitions.
All people interested in buying a polo shirt and all organisations interested in sponsorship or any other questions regarding the concert, should contact Jason Holt, Director of Community Services, on (07) 4060 6817 or email Dircom@aurukun.qld.gov.au