‘Legacy of unity’: First Nations performer William Barton on celebrating Australia Day

While Australia Day is often labelled as the country’s most “divisive” day, that hasn’t deterred First Nations performer William Barton from curating what he believes is “the best celebratory line-up yet.”

While Australia Day is often labelled as the country’s most “divisive” day, that hasn’t deterred First Nations performer William Barton from curating what he believes is “the best celebratory line-up yet.”

As co-creative director for Australia Day Live, Barton is looking forward to January 26, where he will lead an Indigenous performance at Sydney Harbour.

“It’s an opportunity for me to pay respect, pay homage and gratitude to my aunties and uncles and grandfathers and grandmothers who work so hard to create a safe space,” Barton told Confidential.

Pictured is First Nations man William Barton. Picture: Richard Dobson

“We’re following that legacy of unity.”

Although many choose not to celebrate the day, the 43-year-old Kalkadunga man embraces the occasion as a way to “represent something” and carry on the traditions of his mother.

“Even as a kid in the 1980s I saw the Australian and the Aboriginal flag side-by-side,” Barton said.

The free Australia Day Live concert promises to be a celebration of diversity and unity, with performances from some of the nation’s most beloved artists, including iconic band Dragon, Ben Lee, Paulini, and Sheppard.

Brisbane band Sheppard 2021

Ben Lee in SBS Red Flag: Music's Failed Revolution. Picture: Dave Jenkins / SBS

Paulini will be performing at the Enchanted Christmas celebrations at the Adelaide Convention Centre on December 13 and 14, 2024. Source: Supplied

Legendary rock band Dragon will play at Kennards Hire Rally Australia.

“On that stage there is a sinew between each performer that represents each and every Australian out there,” Barton said.

“There is a weight on my shoulders to make sure there is cultural appropriateness within the program throughout the day. It’s a very important thing for me in my heart and for my people.”