Churaki is thought to be the Gold Coast’s first ever surf lifesaver. A Coodjingburra man of the Bundjalung tribe, he carried out many daring rescues in the 1900s, and in 1911 he was the hero in the first documented act of saving lives at the beach. The Spirit of Churaki honours the risk-taking generosity of Churaki, but also of the deep connection to country and cultural obligation of First Nations saltwater people. It’s a staged musical inspired by this largely unknown history, which features musical contributions from surf rock legends.
Part traditional ceremony, part musical theatre, The Spirit of Churaki features Australian musicians Fred Leone, Leah Flanagan and Veronique Serret, with visuals by artist Vernon Ah Kee and music direction by Brian Ritchie (Violent Femmes). It also closes with a set by Aussie surf rockers the Break (Rob Hirst, Jim Moginie, Martin Rotsey of Midnight Oil, Jack Howard of Hunters & Collectors and Brian Ritchie). A very Vivid Live way to kick start Reconciliation Week.
