NIDALA Joins Dan Sultan to Perform Kimberley Dreaming at MCG Dreamtime AFL Match 2026

The MCG Dreamtime AFL match is one of the most anticipated events in Australian sports and culture. This year, the event featured a powerful musical moment that captured the spirit of Indigenous heritage and storytelling. Kin's NIDALA, a respected Indigenous artist, joined renowned musician Dan Sultan to perform Kimberley Dreaming partly in language (Djugun), creating a moving tribute to the rich culture of the Kimberley region.

This performance was more than just music; it was a celebration of identity, language, and connection to country, shared on one of the biggest stages in Australia.

The Significance of the Dreamtime AFL Match

The Dreamtime AFL match is held annually at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to honour Indigenous Australians and their contributions to the sport and the nation. It is a day when culture and football come together, showcasing Indigenous pride through ceremonies, storytelling, and performances.

This year’s match stood out with the inclusion of NIDALA alongside Dan Sultan, bringing an authentic voice from the Kimberley region. Their performance of Kimberley Dreaming in language connected the crowd to the land and stories that have been passed down for generations.

NIDALA and Dan Sultan captivate the MCG crowd with "Kimberley Dreaming," enhanced by vivid lighting and energetic stage presence. Photo courtesy of Mushroom Creative.

About NIDALA and Dan Sultan

NIDALA is a Djugun and Jabirr-Jabirr singer-songwriter known for her dedication to preserving and sharing Aboriginal stories, language and culture through music. Her work often highlights the importance of language as a living connection to heritage and country. Born in the West Kimberley in 1994 to an Aboriginal father and a French mother, NIDALA grew up deeply connected to her Jabirr-Jabirr and Djugun roots while also gaining a global perspective through her education in France.

Dan Sultan is a celebrated Australian singer-songwriter with a strong history of advocating for Indigenous rights and culture. His powerful voice and storytelling have earned him national acclaim. Together, their collaboration on Kimberley Dreaming resonated deeply with the audience at the MCG, and was a true celebration and reclamation in revival of Indigenous language. A massive thank you from Kin and NIDALA to Mushroom Creative for including NIDALA as part of Mushroom's First Nations Pathway program this past year and for the amazing opportunities it has provided.