Melbourne Fashion Week Celebrates 30th Anniversary with an Unforgettable ganbu marra Runway.
Melbourne Fashion Week has kicked off its 30th anniversary in spectacular fashion, marking three decades of style, creativity, and innovation. This year, the festival opened with an electrifying showcase, the ‘ganbu marra’ Runway, featuring First Nations talent at the Melbourne Museum.
Fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders including Melissa Singer and Donny Galella, along with Master Chef’s Nat Wolf and hip hop star Baker Boy, gathered to witness a historic evening that transcended mere aesthetics. The ‘ganbu marra’ runway was not just a display of clothing; it was a vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture and artistry, merging traditional storytelling with contemporary fashion design.
Speaking to designer Samala Thakialee of MumRed the label, she said, “I’m so excited this is our labels 1stbirthday, we kicked off last year on the ‘ganbu marra’ Runway, and this year is the first time an Indigenous Runway has even opened Melbourne Fashion Week. My brand is quite technical, and I like to work with western resources to create traditional silhouettes, everything is made from grass and feathers and fur, held together with velvet, chiffon and organza.
The runway itself was a masterpiece, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of the Melbourne Museum’s architecture with the rich narratives of First Nations creators. Attendees were treated to a visual feast, as models strutted down the runway adorned in garments that spoke to the deep connections between culture, land, and identity. Each piece was a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Indigenous designers, showcasing intricate patterns, vibrant colours, and sustainable materials that echoed the values of the community.
Runway accessory designer and artist, Tegan Murdock from Ngumpie Weaving said, “ I love making women feel beautiful and sharing culture through my creations.”
As the night progressed, the audience was treated to a performance by Australia’s most exciting hip-hop artist and legendary Malyangapa, Barkindji woman, BARKAA, that blended music, and storytelling, further enriching the experience.
By Melinda Sullivan.
