Dale Huddleston
This year, the Furneaux Festival is honoured to welcome back the immensely talented Dale Robert Huddleston, a name synonymous with excellence in music and art. Huddleston, a revered singer, songwriter, and artist, brings more than just his music to the festival – he brings a rich tapestry of First Nations culture and heritage.
Dale’s musical journey is marked by impressive collaborations and support roles with renowned artists like Jessica Mauboy, Troy Cassar Daley, Casey Donovan, and Archie Roach, to name a few. His country-rock tones, which have graced stages like the Tamworth Music Festival, resonate with a depth and passion that leaves audiences in awe.
His most recent album, ‘Simple Things,’ showcases Dale’s unique blend of Aboriginal culture, connection to land, and heartfelt storytelling. The title track, a touching tribute to his daughter, exemplifies his talent for weaving personal narratives into classic country music ballads.
An active community member, Dale dedicates his time to teaching art and music to young people, particularly through his work with the Aboriginal youth corporation, Gugan Gulwan. His efforts in supporting emerging and established artists in the local Koori community have made him a beloved and respected figure.
With cultural ties to the Ngardi language group in East Arnhem Land and the Wiradjuri and Talbragar people in NSW, Dale’s heritage deeply influences his art and music. His multifaceted career, which also includes a stint as a Rugby star, adds to his dynamic persona.
As we anticipate Dale Huddleston’s performance at the Furneaux Festival, we celebrate not just an artist, but a cultural icon whose work transcends the boundaries of music and art, deeply rooting us in the rich tapestry of Australian culture and heritage.