The Rabbitohs Family will be treated to a unique rendition of Glory Glory, at the Club’s Indigenous Round clash this week, with the side set to run out to a rendition of the Club song that will feature two didgeridoos played be renowned performers and brothers, Glen and Matt Doyle.
Descendants of the Muruwari People from Northwest NSW, the Doyle brothers will ply their unique trade in celebration of South Sydney’s Indigenous heritage that includes a long list of proud past and present players, as well as the traditional connection to the Redfern community – among other things.
That connection is shared by both Glen and Matt, whose father Terry was not only born and raised in Redfern, but was a proud South Sydney man.
“For us it’s a great honour to be invited to play didgeridoo and to play that great song,” said Glen speaking to Rabbitohs.com.au.
“Our father was born and bred in Redfern – he worked at the Club for many years during the ‘60s and ’70 starting off as a barman, and he was involved for many years – it’s like we’ve come full circle in a way and we’re proud to be honouring that connection with what we’re about to do.
“The Club and Souths Cares do a great job when it comes to all the Indigenous stuff and there should be more of that in the community.”
Specialists in their craft, the two brothers have sought to spread Indigenous culture by fusing the sounds of the didgeridoo with both Australian and international artists.
“Didgeridoo is about experimentation and it’s something we’re passionate about,” said Glen.
“Putting such an ancient instrument to such an important song is an honour – being South Sydney men and Aborignal men ourselves, it’s a great source of pride.
“We’ve spread the word about it by playing with James Morrison, Goanna, Coloured Stone, Anna Vissi – it’s about showcasing the oldest living culture in the world. We’re very proud of that culture.
“Indigenous culture is something we’ve practiced for thousands of years and it’s tough for us to see the world being destroyed by progress sometimes. This is a great way to simplify things and refocus on the things that are important and really finding our identity.
“It’s about inspiring kids with culture – in the same way that GI inspires on the field – we try to do the same thing through our art.
“Without culture there’s no identity. Aboriginal people struggle with that and drop into things like alcohol as a result, but culture is a way to instil pride and keep your head held high. It’s a powerful thing.”
The Rabbitohs will wear a special jersey this Thursday, designed by Sydney-based Indigenous designer, Nikita Ridgeway – one that tells the stories of six of the Club’s Indigenous.
Two important Australian organisations with a focus on Indigenous people and causes, KARI Aboriginal Resources and Recognise, also feature on the jersey thanks to Rabbitohs co-major partner Crown Resorts.
Stay tuned to Rabbitohs.com.au as we roll out interviews with our Indigenous Rabbitohs players, community leaders and a whole lot more in the coming week!
Click here for Match Day Information.
Purchase your tickets to the Club’s Indigenous Round celebration at ANZ Stadium by clicking here!
Purchase your very own Rabbitohs 2016 jersey, also AVAILABLE IN WOMENS, by clicking here!
