Djawarray
World/Rock/Reggae Band
Email this artist
Call this artist
This is a free artist listing service provided by Entertainment Cairns.If you own this profile and wish to upgrade to gain our promotion functionality, please click here. 
Djawarray is Bertie Riley, a Djabugay and Western Yalanji traditional custodian and singer-songwriter from Ngunbay (Kuranda) and Gimuy (Cairns). Djawarray's music is deeply rooted in Djabugay and Western Yalanji songlines, passed down to him through generations. This unique sound blends Ngirrma (his language) and English, pulsating with the upbeat energy of Aboriginal Rainforest Reggae that made waves in North Queensland with bands including Mantaka, Zennith, Yubbaz, The Pad Boys and Napoo & The Originals.
The 7-8 piece band behind Djawarray is Koahlition, who began jamming on a veranda in Koah, Far North Queensland (FNQ). A multicultural lineup including members with Aboriginal and Torres Strait heritage, the band has a common goal to break boundaries through music and has been dedicated to playing in regional communities across the Country for over 10 years.
Djawarray is the word for ‘thunderstorm’ in Djabugay language, the native dialect of the rainforest Bama (people) who are custodians of the land that runs through one of the largest World Heritage Areas in the world. In May 2023, Djawarray released a 4-track EP, titled 'Binal', the Western Yalanji term for ‘understand’.
Djawarray is preparing to release his upcoming album in 2025, titled "Magayin", which translates to Stand and Rise. The album is a powerful tribute to cultural pride, identity, and the strength of those who came before. Magayin carries a message of unity and resilience—an invitation to stand tall, walk together, and honour the spirit of the land. It encourages reflection on our roots while amplifying the voices of Indigenous Australia in today’s world.
Djawarray is revered for being a positive role model and community leader, recognised for his significant contributions in upholding and preserving his culture. He carries the torch of Mayi Wunba Dance Troupe, passed down from his father Lance Riley, to ensure the continuation of their corroboree (traditional dance) and language. Djawarray was recently nominated for a QMusic Award for the song "Bundarra," inspired by the Dreamtime story of the Cassowary, the maker of the rainforest and symbol of the Djabugay tribe.
|
| Set list |
| Originals but can play covers |
| Influences |
Indigenous Australian Artists
Bob Marley
Peter Tosh |
| Gig Highlights |
Dream Aloud Cairns supporting Baker Boy and King Stingray, Kee'ahn, Bumpy
Northern Australian festival of Arts supporting Xavier Rudd, Fred Leone, Kee'ahn
Many festivals around FNQ
|
|
