Event Program

Marlon originates from the tropics of his Traditional lands of the Larrakia in Darwin, Northern  Territory. Transitioning from a Professional AFL Career being drafted at the age of just 17, Marlon’s transformation into singer songwriter has catapulted into co-writing songs with Australian Hip Hop stars such as Urthboy, ‘YES’ with Rap/Hip Hop Powerhouse A.B Original, ‘Blak Australia Policy from the ARIA award winning Album of 3%, and most recently the smash hit ‘The Gift’ with Rap Giants Hilltop Hoods.

Marlon blends his early music influences of Michael Jackson with and more recent sounds like Miguel, Weeknd and N.E.R.D to produce thought provoking, melodically moving lyrics with his captivating voice, challenging the status quo and capturing the story of his ancestral homelands, and the challenges of Aboriginal Australia.

Coming off consecutive National tours supporting Australian Artists Xavier Rudd and Pete Murray in 2022, and 2023 and a NIMAS nomination for Best Emerging Talent. Currently on Tour supporting the Hilltop Hoods,  Marlon is preparing himself for a gigantic 2026 campaign set to release his debut single ‘Blood in the Water’ from his debut Album.

Tilly Tjala Thomas is a Nukunu singer-songwriter, who grew up on the Fleurieu Peninsula, South of Adelaide. Since finishing school in 2020, the electronic pop and indie musician have bagged numerous industry accolades, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander musician of the Year, NIMA Unearthed Award at the 2021 National Indigenous Music awards and the Emily Burrows Award at the 2021 South Australian Music Awards. Tilly was awarded the Stigwood Artist Fellowship (2022) and released her first EP, Sanctuary.

Jusst, a local artist from Adelaide has been producing & performing music for years now & he promises to bring raw hip-hop energy with powerful bars, real stories, and infectious rhythm. Expect emotion, presence, and a performance that hits just as hard live as it does through the speakers.

Nancy Bates, a proud Barkindji woman from Far West New South Wales. My music is an expression of my heritage, language, and lived experiences. As a singer-songwriter, mentor, and human rights advocate, I help others find their voice. I’ve performed with Uncle Archie Roach and curate Blak Country, an Indigenous music showcase. Through my songs, I connect, support, and bring us together—just as we do in community gatherings like Closing the Gap.