Alfie - Yidaki, Boomerangs and Stories
Alfie - Yidaki, Boomerangs and Stories
Alfred (Alfie) Coolwell is a distinguished First Nation Aboriginal man of the Mununjali tribe from Beaudesert, South East Queensland. As an actor and Indigenous educator, Alfie has dedicated his life to sharing and preserving Aboriginal history, culture, and community.
For over 30 years, Alfie has been passionately educating people about Aboriginal history, culture, and traditions. He specialises in yidaki (didgeridoo) performance, storytelling, and boomerang throwing. Through his engaging and informative workshops, Alfie provides hands-on experiences that teach boomerang skills and the rich cultural heritage of the Aboriginal people.
Alfie's journey and contributions are a testament to his resilience and dedication to his roots. His work not only honours his heritage but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal culture among diverse audiences.
Instrumentation: Yidaki, (didgeridoo) clapsticks, boomerangs
Genre: Traditional and contemporary Aboriginal music and techniques
Size: soloist - group
Hire For: Conferences, Sporting events, Corporate events, Naidoc, Reconciliation and Sorry Day, Education, Welcome to Country support, Smoking Ceremony, Yidaki Demonstrations
Equipment Supplied: Requires a microphone for large events
Location: NSW- will travel
Part of the Stolen Generations, Alfie was taken from his hospital bed by white government officials while recovering from pneumonia. He was raised by a white family in Ipswich, given a new name and grew up disconnected from his heritage. Despite these challenges, Alfie began searching for his family as a young adult. His tireless efforts culminated in a poignant reunion in 1988 when he was recognised by his sister during a First Nation land rights protest march. Although his parents had sadly passed away by then, the reunion with his siblings was a profound and healing moment for him. "To find my family was a huge burden lifted off my shoulders," Alfie recalls. For more information about Alfie's story and the broader context of the Stolen Generations, please refer to this site Human Rights Commission and this document - Bringing them home