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In the heart of Gumbaynggirr country there is a great band and group of dancers called Jumbaal Dreamin’. If you’ve been to Nambucca or Bellingen you have probably met the enigmatic elder Uncle Martin who is the keyboardist and traditional songman for this dynamic Goori group. Jumbaal is the carpet python which is the group’s totem or “dreaming”. As a band they play that kind of Aboriginal Rock that many have come to know and love. It’s a family band with an ever growing fan base. Uncle Martin Ballangarry is an Elder and key figure in the Gumbaynggirr nation. He has been a good role model for many years and is often called by his community to do important tasks such as Smoking Ceremonies and traditional dancing at many local events and festivals. An accomplished pianist, Martin has been a performer with different bands and dance troupes over the years including Never Sober Band from South West Rocks and Willy & the Wagtails from Kempsey but his main act is Jumbaal Dreamin’ which is a family band and also dance troupe. Artist, musician and Aboriginal community leader Martin Ballangarry has a long record of service to numerous organisations including the Bowraville Community Alliance, the Nambucca Valley Reconciliation Group, the Bowraville Aboriginal Medical Service, director of Muurbay Language Centre and the Bowraville Local Aboriginal Land Council. He created history in 2004 when he became the first Aboriginal person to be elected to the Nambucca Shire Council. Career Highlights: Councillor - Nambucca Shire/Valley Council 2004 – current Deputy Mayor –Nambucca Valley Council 2018 Performer with Jumbaal Dreamin’ 2021 Celebration b4 Renovation - Bellingen Memorial Hall Performer with Jumbaal Dreamin’ 2017, 2015 Saltwater Freshwater Festival Chairperson 2012-2018 Bennelong Aben Rehabilitation Center Reconcilliation Day/Sorry Apology 2007 Bowraville Arts Gallery Medal of the Order of Australia 2006 For his work with Indigenous youths in the local community Performer with Jumbaal Dreamin’ 2005.