2025 Martu Festival Celebrates Community, Culture and Sport at Punmu
Sunday 13th – Friday 19th July, Punmu Community
This July, the red sands of Punmu came alive as hundreds gathered for the 2025 Martu Festival — a vibrant, week-long celebration of Martu culture, sport, music, and togetherness. Families and community members travelled vast distances from across the Western Desert and Pilbara to take part in the festivities, some driving for days to reach the heart of Martu Country.
Martu people journeyed from Kunawarritji, Parngurr, Irrikadji (Nullagine), Warralong, Yandeyarra, Jigalong, Kiwirrkurra, Parnpajinya (Newman), Port Hedland, and Bidyadanga, converging on Punmu for a week of reconnection, storytelling, and cultural pride.
Sporting Spirit Runs High
Sport was a major highlight of the festival, with fiercely contested AFL and softball tournaments drawing large crowds and passionate support. After a thrilling week of matches, Irrikadji (Nullagine) emerged victorious in both the men’s football and women’s softball finals, defeating hosts Punmu in dramatic, high-energy clashes.
The presence of representatives from the West Coast Eagles and Softball WA added extra excitement, as they travelled more than 1,300km from Perth to support the event and scout emerging talent. Their involvement underscored the growing recognition of Martu sporting excellence, with young athletes impressing onlookers with their skill, determination, and sportsmanship.
Community pride was on full display, with players of all ages showcasing not only athleticism but deep respect for each other and for the Country they play on.
Music Under the Desert Stars
Each night, the community gathered under the stars for electrifying live performances as bands from across the region lit up the stage. Audiences were treated to the rhythmic sounds and stories of the desert, with performances by the Lajamanu Teenage Band, Wild Dingo Band, Nullagine Band, Kunawarritji Band, and Kiwirrkurra Band.
The week culminated in the much-anticipated Western Desert Kings of Sound Competition, where Kiwirrkurra Band was crowned champions, earning well-deserved applause and the honour of representing their community through music. The night was filled with dancing, laughter, and the unmistakable sound of desert rock echoing through the spinifex.
More Than a Festival: Marlpa in Action
More than just a festival, the event embodied the spirit of marlpa (companionship) and kujungka (togetherness). For the Martu people, this gathering is a powerful expression of cultural strength, unity, and shared joy. It’s a time to reconnect across Country, pass on knowledge, celebrate language and music, and inspire the next generation to walk strong in culture.
With kids running barefoot on the red dirt, elders sharing stories around the fire, and families camping beneath the stars, the 2025 Martu Festival reminded everyone of the enduring strength and beauty of community.
As the sun set on the final day, community members returned home with full hearts, tired feet, and unforgettable memories.
Words by Rosie Platts and Cameron Hennessy
With thanks to Ngurra Kunjungka, Desert Wave Records and Punmu Community for bringing this week to fruition.
