The globally beloved children's show Bluey is set to be available in an Australian Indigenous language for the first time, following its translation into over 120 languages worldwide. As part of an initiative for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) Week, five episodes from seasons one and two have been dubbed into Yolŋu Matha, the Australian First Nations language of North-east Arnhem Land.
Episodes and Voice Cast
The episodes, titled The Beach, The Creek, Sleepytime, Grandad, and Rug Island, will be broadcast and streamed for the first time on Sunday, 5 July. The characters are voiced by Dimathaya Burrawanga from the band King Stingray as Bandit, Yolŋu educator and translator Rosie Mununggurr as Chilli, and Andrew Gurruwiwi as the granddad. The children voicing Bluey and Bingo, who remain unnamed to protect their privacy, are local children from North-east Arnhem Land.
Collaboration and Significance
The project was developed with Yolŋu Radio and the Aboriginal Resource and Development Services (ARDS), in collaboration with Bluey creators Ludo Studio and the ABC. Kelly Williams, the ABC's director of First Nations strategy, stated that the Indigenous language episodes will “bring the North-east Arnhem Land language and culture into homes across the country.” Julia Wormer and Sylvia Nulpinditj, co-chief executive officers at ARDS, expressed their hope that this project contributes to a future where First Nations languages are increasingly heard, celebrated, and recognised as a vital part of Australia’s story.
Global Success of Bluey
Since its launch in 2018, Bluey has been streamed into millions of homes worldwide. The animated series is available in more than 140 countries and has topped the US streaming charts for the past two years. The show follows the adventures of Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli, capturing the hearts of audiences globally.
NAIDOC Week and Garma Festival
NAIDOC Week runs from 5 to 12 July, with the theme “50 Years of Deadly,” honouring the strength, leadership, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. The Indigenous language episodes of Bluey will also be screened at this year’s Garma festival in August, further promoting cultural awareness and language preservation.
