Team
Djarrka was established to share and celebrate Yolngu culture. Co-founded by proud Yolngu women of the Mandhalpuy people in North East Arnhem Land, Phoebe and Talia work to bring people together and drive positive change.
Phoebe Marson Gulpilil
Grounded in her Yolngu heritage, Phoebe draws on this foundation to navigate complex systems and drive change. She is also shaped by the support and wisdom of her Scottish-English family.
As a policy maker, Phoebe has led system reform projects that have made lasting impacts for First Nations communities. Through her experience across First Nations organisations, government and grassroots initiatives, she bridges two worlds—the old and the new—to find meaningful ways forward.
Her work demonstrates that achieving this balance is often more attainable than it seems.
Founder and Director
Talia Gulpilil
Co-founder and Director Cultural Strengthening
Talia brings a deep commitment to cultural safety and awareness, creating spaces where learning, understanding and respect can thrive. Through her cultural strengthening workshops, she helps organisations build confidence in working with First Nations communities, fostering meaningful relationships and stronger partnerships.
Her approach not only bridges gaps but also empowers clients to engage with cultural integrity. The impact of her work is seen in the trust and respect she helps cultivate—shaping more inclusive and culturally responsive workplaces and communities.
Cultural Knowledge
Their knowledge has been passed down through father and grandfather David Gulpilil, who shared culture through dance and film, Aunty Mary Dhapalany and Aunty Evonne Munuyngu, renowned for their traditional pandanus weaving, brother and father, Witiyana Marika, Senior Yolngu Elder and founding member of the band Yothu Yindi. Holding both worlds in balance.
Djarrka, the water goanna. By sharing this name, we invite others to connect with the knowledge, stories and strength it carries.