The song is called “Gari Gynda Narmi” or sometimes written as “Gurri Ngindin Narmi“. This version is by a songman, Uncle Country Matheson, who passed away a few years ago. The song is sacred and recorded as an intro to the Paradigm Shift by permission from Uncle Country's sister.
Gari Gynda Narmi is originally a Waka Waka song, but with the dispersal and cross-pollination of aboriginal cultures (plus the fact it has easy to remember words and dance moves) means it has become a welcome song of all aboriginal nations in south-east Queensland.
Gari Gynda Narmi has appeared in a few rock versions too, in Mop and the Dropouts song “Dancing Aborigine” and a beautiful acoustic version by Joe Geia which helpfully includes an English translation!
"Welcome to this area,
People from all directions
Now when you leave
May our spirits stay with you"
The image is of a brother now passed, Kevin Vieritz who is carrying the sacred fire in Musgrave Park, Brisbane, while it was under attack by Queensland authorities in 2011-12. Kevin gave evidence in a trial over the sacred fire after he had been arrested on a number of occasions.
[Liner notes by Ian Curr, a friend of the families].
