Shipmates from across the globe came together for an immersion of cultural expression, exchange and shared learning with their Royal Australian Navy (RAN) counterparts at HMAS Kuttabul.

Crews from Canada, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand and Vietnam joined RAN’s Indigenous Performance Group, Bungaree, for a celebration of dance, song and group participation.

The partner nations were in Sydney for Exercise Kakadu, the RAN’s premier multinational maritime engagement exercise, conducted biennially to strengthen maritime security cooperation, enhance interoperability and build partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

During the cultural displays, each nation conducted a range of presentations, spanning traditional welcomes, dance, martial arts and music performances.

Group participation was a highlight with audience members regularly on their feet and joining in performances.

Able Seaman Kieryn Nieves, who played the yidaki as part of Bungaree’s opening performance, said the event was different to any other performance the group has ever done.

“It’s just great being in the room and seeing all the other navies excited to see what we’ve got, and it’s opening the way for them to showcase what they’ve got to share, too,’’ he said.

“Each performance was special in their own way but I always love seeing our brothers and sisters from New Zealand perform – hearing the vocals harmonise together like that just raises the hair on the back of your neck. It’s just incredible.”

Other activities during the two-day cultural hub included a partner nation’s volleyball and tug-of-war tournament, cultural workshops, coin exchanges, museum tours, marquee stalls and barbecue lunch.

Exercise Kakadu is an Australian-led maritime activity planned alongside our partners, demonstrating the depth of our relationships and the benefits of trusted, like-minded partnerships.