In Utju (Areyonga) you'll find one of the most stunning waterholes that plays a vital role for those who live there. Known locally as Utju, the town is nestled in a spectacular valley in the western end of the MacDonnell Ranges, about 100km from Hermannsburg and 240km west of Alice Springs. Since the 1920s it has been home to the Anangu who originally came from the Petermann Ranges, but who were forced to leave the Docker River area due to a long running drought. This makes the local water hole not only a source of life, but historically a preserver of it as well.

This connection is the theme of the latest music video to come from Utju, and celebrates the importance of that water source both practically and culturally.

A community comes together

The Healthy Living Program behind the music video were invited to join community members to help bring to life the vision of this project. Throughout the week a lot of topics we're discussed around what the song would focus on, with the conservation of water (Kapi) being the winning contender. This meant local knowledge was able to be passed down to the younger generation, a practice Anangu have been perfecting for decades. The song was written and performed in the local Pitjantjara language and emphasizes cultural identity and connection to country. The students also led the video production including the imagery and locations, the sound recorded and the message.

Watch the latest video from Utju below.

There was a strong sense of synergy between us, and the community was absolutely beautiful—warm, generous, and welcoming. Each day offered meaningful learning and deep connection with the kids, the wider community, and Country.

Carmen, Red DustProgram Facilitator

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