Indonesian culture featured prominently at Sydney's Festival of the Winds. For performers, parents and community members, the event was more than a cultural showcase. It was an opportunity to strengthen connections with their heritage, build community and introduce Indonesian traditions to Australian audiences.
The rhythmic sounds of Balinese gamelan and the vibrant colours of traditional dance costumes drew crowds at Sydney's annual Festival of the Winds at Bondi Beach. Opening the multicultural festival, members of Suwitra Jaya Gamelan and dancers from Sanggar Tari Nusantara Sydney brought a taste of Indonesia to one of Australia's most iconic coastal locations.
Among the performers was Caitlyn Purwa, an Australian-born Indonesian who discovered Balinese gamelan while studying at university. What began as a musical interest soon became a deeper exploration of her Indonesian heritage. Through Balinese gamelan and dance, Caitlyn said she has found a stronger connection to her culture, community and identity.
The event also highlighted the important role parents play in preserving cultural traditions across generations. For many Indonesian families in Sydney, weekly rehearsals, performances and cultural activities are part of a broader effort to help their children develop pride in their heritage while growing up in Australia.
Parents said the response from Australian audiences has been overwhelmingly positive. Sydney mums Dina and Ocha—whose children performed Balinese dance 'Pendet' on the day—said that they often receive enthusiastic feedback from members of the community and requests for photographs. This helps the children see their cultural background as a source of confidence and pride rather than something that sets them apart.
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