From August 1 to 4, Wing Commander Elisha Kropp and Squadron Leader Coen Henry attended the Garma Festival of Traditional Cultures held at Gulkula, remote northeast Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.

Garma is a vibrant cultural exchange of First Nations culture that occurs annually over four days and is a powerful affirmation of identity and tradition. The festival showcased traditional miny’tji (art), manikay (song), bunggul (dance) and storytelling.  

The mission of the festival is to provide a contemporary platform for expressing and presenting traditional Yolngu knowledge systems and practices, ensuring the authentic sharing of these cultural heritages.

Wing Commander Kropp from the Directorate of Organisational Behaviour and Culture – Air Force, and Senior Indigenous Liaison Officer from Headquarters Air Command Squadron Leader Henry, were proud to represent the Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell at the festival. During the Garma Festival, they engaged with community, playing a crucial role in advancing the dialogue and initiatives that drive Air Force Indigenous affairs.

“These events, alongside traditional art and cinematography exhibitions, engage a wide-ranging audience, providing meaningful opportunities to learn from the rich heritage of the world’s oldest surviving culture,” Squadron Leader Henry said.

“Furthermore, these initiatives highlight the importance of practical reconciliation efforts and reflect profound respect for First Nation peoples, recognising their invaluable contributions to national defence and their enduring service across all branches of the Australian Defence Force.”

Squadron Leader Henry and Wing Commander Kropp were honoured to represent the Air Force at this event, but found the most significant part was the opportunity to actively listen and engage in the cultural exchange.

“One Elder voiced ‘If we listen twice as much as we speak, we can uncover invaluable lessons in pausing, reflecting and drawing upon the wisdom that Elders have transmitted from generation to generation. This process allows us to learn from the past and foster a better future for the next generation.’ Those words deeply resonated with me,” Squadron Leader Henry said.

He said that having experienced a recent loss in his family and community, which resulted in the departure of centuries of culture and knowledge, time spent listening is incredibly important. He felt deep appreciation for the work of his predecessors in shaping Air Force Indigenous affairs and continuing to pave the way for the next generation of Air Force Indigenous affairs leadership.

“Attending the Garma Festival in the Top End has been a career highlight. I am grateful for the trust in me to observe the 25th anniversary and learn from esteemed Elders and leaders, inspiring new ways to support First Nation aviators within the Air Force,” Squadron Leader Henry said.