Prayer, song and dance have led a moving cultural gathering in the South Australian Museum’s Pacific Cultures Gallery.
On the 25 July, the Melanesian Lullaby ceremony was hosted by the Papua New Guinea Association of South Australia in partnership with the Museum.
It was the latest in a series of community events for the Pasifika community before the cultural items in the gallery undergo a period of rest and preservation, marking an important milestone in the stewardship of the Pacific Cultural Collection.
The event provided an opportunity for Pacific Island communities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives, cultural leaders, Elders, and the broader community to gather in a spirit of respect, celebration, and unity.
The title Melanesian Lullaby symbolised a gentle farewell as the Pacific collections are carefully placed into temporary care for restoration and preservation - like a lullaby that comforts and protects.
The ceremony included prayers and messages from prominent community leaders Iagata Viri, Fred Ovia, Therese Kemelfield, Celestine Tauriko and Waso Matthews, who expressed community hope that the cultural treasures will be safeguarded with respect and returned to continue educating and inspiring for generations to come.
Cultural performances were shared by Abadi Drum Dancers, together with Southern Region representatives and Raijeli Bovoro (above) from the Fiji Association of South Australia.
This gathering also recognised the deep connections between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and the peoples of the Pacific. It celebrated the strength of their cultures, the resilience of their communities, and the enduring relationships that unite them across oceans and generations.
The South Australian Museum thanks all participating communities, performers, Elders, volunteers, and guests for sharing in this significant occasion and for supporting the preservation and celebration of Pacific cultural heritage.
Find out more here and we look forward to sharing updates as this conservation work progresses.
Photos supplied by Sia Duff.
