Powerful storytelling earns major prize for Spirits of the Red Sand
Anyone who has attended Spirits of the Red Sand knows it is an unforgettable experience.
The live theatre production has been captivating audiences since 2017, and now it’s been recognised at the Queensland Tourism Awards, winning gold for Best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism experience.
The last time the awards were held, in 2019, Spirits of the Red Sand took bronze in the category.
Cultural Elder and co-founder, Eddie Ruska, accepted the award with his daughters Leanne Ruska, Executive Chef, and Michelle Thomson, Cultural Manager.
Eddie says he has spoken to attendees who told him the experience of the show was healing.
“We are healing a lot of people,” he says.
“Our story tells what happened between Aboriginal people and colonists, how we felt and what we did to survive in the country together.”
Leanne says the win shows people are interested in learning about First Nations history.
“There’s a big need for this out there and I think people are ready and want to know more about the people of this country – it’s very exciting,” she says.
Things look set to grow even more for Spirits of the Red Sand.
Plans are already under way for upgraded and enhanced sound and lighting facilities, and a recording studio. The music created in the studio will form part of a new retail gift gallery featuring 100 per cent authentic First Nations art and crafts.
New signage and new experiences are also under way, with a focus on creating new food tours that incorporate the Spirt of the Red Sand’s extensive bush tucker garden. To find out more, head to the Spirits of the Red Sand official website and check out the videos below.
