Since its inception in 2010, the festival has traditionally been held on Australia Day each year, but this time, it will fall during Reconciliation Week next year.

"We are excited for this new opportunity to share our event on a date in alignment with our Festival's focus of positive reconciliation through active participation," the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance said via a media statement.

"The Festival's mission is to celebrate and share authentic Aboriginal living culture with the broader community and create an inclusive family day for all communities to enjoy.

"The only cultural event of its kind in regional NSW, it is a true showcase of local culture, skills, music, dance, art, lifestyle and culinary talent."

Since its inaugural year, which 12,000 people attended, the Saltwater Freshwater Festival continues to build its audience.

The overwhelming response to the day has been positive, with many enjoying the opportunity to experience such an incredible day of cultural celebration and inclusiveness.

Sadly, like many events over the last two years, the previous event was cancelled in January of this year due to COVID-19 restrictions.

However, the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance has promised to bring back the event, bigger and better than ever.

Through the joint Commonwealth/State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, they were fortunate enough to receive seed funding from the Nambucca Valley Council's Bushfire Community Recovery and Resilience Fund, through the joint Commonwealth/State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

"We are working diligently to secure additional sponsors who are vital to ensure that we can deliver an exciting event in 2022," the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance said via a media statement.

"We are continuing to curate the Festival program and are happy to announce the headline performance for 2022 is Gumbaynggirr artist Emma Donovan and her band the Putbacks."

Further updates will be announced over the coming months through social media channels and the Saltwater Freshwater Festival's newly redesigned and updated website at www.saltwaterfreshwater.com.au.

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