Bamaga cultural dance troupe Naygayiw Gigi (‘Northern Thunder’) celebrated its busiest year to date thanks to a new business structure created with the help of Cape York Peninsula Lodge (CYPL).

Previously, CYPL, which is a Bamaga Enterprises Ltd (BEL) operation, would help fund 10 dances per tourist season for the enjoyment of its guests. At the beginning of 2021, a new agreement between tour operator Outback Spirit and Naygayiw Gigi Dance Troupe resulted in a significant spike in the number of performances booked.

“After an introduction from Cape York Peninsula Lodge, we now deal directly with the tour groups and they reach out when they want to book us, which has been amazing,” Naygayiw Gigi Dance Troupe Leader, Leonora Adidi, said.

“Before, we might be lucky to dance four or five times a month during the tourist season; now it’s often four times a week. I remember when I first looked at the booking schedule after teaming up with Outback Spirit and couldn’t believe what I saw.

“The Lodge has been fantastic and we can’t thank them enough for the support in setting up the partnership, plus they continue to provide a stage and seating for the performances.” 

Outback Spirit Brand Manager, Matt Naldrett, said it’s rewarding to see a climb in bookings for the Indigenous dance group. 

“We host a variety of experiential and adventure tours throughout the country and wherever we go we endeavour to incorporate traditional elements and cultural groups like the Naygayiw Gigi Dance Troupe,” Mr Naldrett said. 

“Our aim is to support these organisations by sharing their talents with as many of our guests as possible and, in turn, offer a deeper understanding of local culture. Since aligning with us, Naygayiw Gigi has performed for our guests who have come back with fantastic feedback about the performances—we anticipate bookings to continue with high popularity into next year.”

BEL is an Indigenous, not-for-profit organisation that reinvests profits back into the community. Robert Poipoi, Chairperson of BEL, said it’s important to support local cultural groups. 

“It’s fantastic to see the further development of the dance troupe over the past twelve months and to assist in its long-term viability,” Mr Poipoi said. 

“Visitors who stay at the Lodge are constantly asking about how they can experience local cultures so it’s a win for everyone involved.”

Naygayiw Gigi, which was formed in 2015, aims to preserve and spread the ​​Bamaga and Saibailgaw cultures while nurturing a new generation of performances through dances, stories and songs.

Ms Adidi said, “It isn’t just about entertainment, it tells the story of how we came to the Northern Peninsula Area while educating the audience about our history and languages, the meaning of the dances and the significance of the costumes, props and musical instruments.” 

Since forming, the dance group has travelled across Australia and overseas, while also performing locally to tourists during the Far North Queensland peak season.
“We have performed in a number of places both nationally and internationally including Papua New Guinea for the 30-year anniversary of the signing of the Torres Strait Treaty, as well as the Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo Malaysia. 

“It’s also rewarding to be able to perform and spread our culture locally, while passing it on to younger generations and keeping it alive within the community.”

Due to COVID-19 border closures, unfortunately a number of the dance performances had to be cancelled this year, but the future for the Naygayiw Gigi Dance Troupe is looking bright with much interest for the 2022 tourist season.