In Conversation with Nardi Simpson & Ryan Butta

Join us for an enchanting lunchtime talk with Nardi Simpson, the award-winning Yuwaalaraay author of Song of the Crocodile and Ryan Butta, author of The Bravest Scout at Gallipoli, as they do a deep dive into Nard's second novel, The Belburd".

The Belburd is a lyrical exploration of women, creation, and belonging through the eyes of Ginny Dilboong, a fierce young poet navigating love, family, and her place in a world where everything is interconnected.

This promises an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation through the unique lens of Nardi's perspective as an Indigenous storyteller, musician, and cultural advocate .

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from one of Australia's most compelling literary voices.

Nardi Simpson is a Yuwaalaraay storyteller and performer living in Sydney. Training as a musician, Nardi began her artistic journey as a songwriter and performer with vocal duo Stiff Gins. This has seen her travel both nationally and internationally for over twenty-five years releasing four albums, two singles, an EP and countless compliations during that time.

​Nardi was a winner of the 2018 Black & Write! Fellowship for a manuscript that would eventually become her first novel, 'Song of the Crocodile.' Published in 2020 by Hachette Australia, Song of the Crocodile won the 2021 ASAL Gold Medal and was long listed for the 2021 Stella Prize and Miles Franklin Awards. Nardi's second novel 'the belburd' will be published by Hachette in October 2024.

Nardi continues to perform with Stiff Gins, works with student ensembles and directs cross-cultural choir Barayagal at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. She is also currently undertaking a PhD with the ANU School of Music. Whatever the creative project infront of her, Nardi remains committed and active in the making and sharing of culture, music and story in both her Sydney and Yuwaalaraay communities.

About Ryan

Ryan Butta grew up in regional New South Wales.

Before he started writing he worked in international trade and has lived and worked extensively overseas. He is a writer, author and editor. When he is not writing Ryan enjoys fly fishing, cooking over flame and telling people that he once played cricket for Argentina. He speaks Spanish and Portuguese but mostly enjoys long silences.

Ryan currently lives on the NSW South Coast with his wife, Carolina, and a Cavoodle called Canela and has recently released his second book on Australian history - The Bravest Scout in Galipolli.

Host or Publisher Sydney Mechanics' School of Arts (SMSA)