Words by Carbon Arts, photography by Leonie van Eyk

Djakitj Larr was an afternoon of creative conversation that provided space and inspiration for 100 dynamic, diverse stakeholders from across the Greater Bendigo and the region to connect and reflect, and generate ideas for building sustainable food systems on Djaara Country.

Developed and delivered by Carbon Arts to help activate the Greater Bendigo’s UNESCO designation as a Creative City & region of Gastronomy, the event germinated 10 “seedling project” concepts from a public art & food program to a 500 year plan for Djaraa Country. An edible welcome to country performance set the scene for participants with a journey through Djaraa lore and law, culminating in an invitation to enter into an agreement with Country.

The name of the event – Djakitj Larr – was generated by project collaborator and Dja Dja Wurrung woman Rebecca Phillips as a response to the European fable “Stone Soup”, in which a community is drawn together to nurture communal trust and sustenance by an invitation to put something into the pot for all to share.

A full report, detailing the day, the performances, food, conversations and the project seedlings generated can be found HERE. The report also suggests recommendations for next steps and reflects the community’s passion and commitment to work together for a better future.

Read the report