Writing ngurrak barring: Artist talk with Tiriki Onus
Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival
Join Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung artist, academic and filmmaker Tiriki Onus for a presentation on Thrivance: Then Now Next and Generational Guests, two works that weave together four generations of Onus family history, activism and creative expression in goranwarrabil (the Dandenong Ranges).
This is a unique opportunity to hear the powerful stories embedded in these works and learn about their significance as both a tribute to past activism and a statement of ongoing cultural resilience.
Both works were commissioned for ngurrak barring, an arts and culture walking trail through the towering forests and vibrant villages of goranwarrabil.
Presented by ngurrak barring in partnership with the Dandenong Ranges Literary Festival.
Please note the event's location will be the base of Pound Creek Track, Sherbrooke Forest, around 30 metres from the gate at the back of the Micawber Tavern car park.
About Tiriki Onus:
Tiriki Onus is a Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung artist, academic, and filmmaker serving as Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) at the University of Melbourne, where they also lead the Wilin Centre for Indigenous Arts and Cultural Development and co-direct the Research Unit in Indigenous Arts and Culture. A multidisciplinary practitioner, their work spans visual arts, curatorship, performance, and opera. In 2014, they were awarded the inaugural Hutchinson Indigenous Fellowship, supporting their work with communities to revitalise biganga (possum skin cloak) technologies. They co-directed the acclaimed documentary Ablaze (2021), which uncovers a historic film by their grandfather, Aboriginal rights leader William ‘Bill’ Onus. Their creative and research practice continues this legacy, including the installation Thrivance: Then, Now, Next (2025). Their PhD, Biganga – Mapping Paths Back to Knowing, was awarded in early 2025. Tiriki’s work continues to foster innovation in research, development, advocacy, representation and inclusion of Indigenous arts, cultural practices and practitioners.
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