OUR guest speaker for our February meeting was the well-known local and international muso and all-round good guy that many of our members know from his involvement in community activities over the years.
Russell (Rusty) Smith has played on many stages.
A master of the yidaki (didgeridoo), the Pitjantjatjara musician has performed with Australian artists including the late Uncle Archie Roach AC, Paul Kelly and Tommy Emmanuel.
He has worked alongside the legendary Sixto Rodriguez, and with international composers Peter Sculthorpe and Rupert Gregson Williams.
Russell is the enigmatic frontman of his First Nations indie-rock band, Brolga. His classical trio, Manta, pairs the yidaki with guitar and cello to haunting effect.
Russell has lived on Tamborine Mountain with his wife and two children for many years and is an active member of the community, hosting a successful series Stories and Songs at the Tamborine Mountain Library featuring both Indigenous and non- Indigenous local and national artists.
Through his company Mulkutja Yanima Russell facilitates programs designed to address the current divide between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians.
Russell believes greater understanding, recognition and acknowledgement together play an important role in addressing social change for success in our shared future.
Rusty entertained us with some of his life story, how he got involved with music and his work with indigenous communities particularly in helping the younger generation and finished with a short demonstration on the yidaki (didgeridoo).
Much enjoyed by our members and we are very grateful to Rusty for sharing his story with us … Thanks Bro!
Any retired (or semi-retired) guys out there looking for something that will help you enjoy your life through fun, friendship and fellowship, are invited to be part of our vibrant club to join in the many activities and interest groups by contacting membership@tamborinemountainprobus.org.au.
By Barry Chick, Tamborine Mountain Probus
