The traditional art of plaiting and a cabaret!

The traditional art of plaiting and a cabaret! - 

In this episode we are going to explore two distinctive traditions that have shaped the island's identity - the traditional craft of plaiting and the vibrant musical cabarets of the 1970/80s.

The Traditional Plaiting of Island hats

Learning to plait traditionally occurs within family settings, with knowledge passed from elders to younger generations through demonstration rather than formal instruction. Learning in this way ensures that subtle techniques are fully absorbed from the precise tension required for different fibres, the handling of transitions between plaiting and sewing together the hat, and the finishing methods that ensure durability.

Traditionally plaited hats represent far more than practical accessories on Norfolk Island; they embody cultural identity, social connections, and historical continuity. As one of the most visible expressions of local craftsmanship, the wearing of these hats have become powerful symbols our Norfolk heritage.

Many Norfolk hats within island families are treasured and preserved as family heirlooms rather than worn regularly, becoming repositories of family history - especially if they had been made by a family member who has passed and whom you wish to honour and remember by taking care of the hat and bringing it out to wear on special Norfolk events and commemorations. 

A Norfolk hat represents not only individual craftsmanship but participation in a living tradition that spans generations.

AUDIO>> Listen to Norfolk Islander Greg Magri as he shares his knowledge and insight into the materials, techniques and cultural significance of Norfolk Island's plaiting tradition.

And now, an audio snapshot of another rich component of our sound heritage collection > our love of music through the eras and community music events that brought locals together. This next collection of recordings was captures one of our community cabarets that celebrated the Beatles' extensive song catalogue. These events, were typically held in the historic Rawson Hall, represented a distinctive fusion of global popular culture and local community expression that continues to resonate in island memory.

The cabarets emerged organically from Norfolk Island's strong musical tradition, with local musicians gathering to recreate the complex harmonies and innovative instrumentation that characterized the Beatles' work.

These musical events were distinguished by their inclusive nature and voluntary participation. Unlike commercial performances, the Beatles cabarets operated on principles of community contribution, with islanders sharing musical talents regardless of professional training.

Behind-the-scenes roles were equally valued, with volunteers from the community contributing to the event organisation, refreshments and venue preparation. The communal nature of the experience - gathering in Rawson Hall with family & friends  - created emotional connections to the music that differed significantly from individual listening.

>>> AUDIO: A themed Beatles cabaret as held in Rawson Hall

Travelling to Norfolk Island offers so many holiday experiences combining natural beauty, fascinating history, and living cultural traditions. With thoughtful planning, you will be able to move beyond surface-level tourism to develop meaningful connections with our  island's distinctive heritage.

We look forward to welcoming you here!

Thanks so much for joining me this week!

Sponsored by Baunti Tours www.bauntitours.com

> When booking with Baunti Tours, mention 'Podcast' to receive a 10% discount on tours.

email: res@baunti.nlk.nf

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Transcript

Welcome to Episode 34 of the Untold Norfolk Island travel podcast series.

My name is Jodie Williams and as a Norfolk Islander & Churchill Fellow, I am your ‘on island’ podcast host.

>>> Audio: You have just heard a snippet from a themed Beatles cabaret as held in Rawson Hall.

In this episode we are going to explore two distinctive traditions that have shaped the island's identity - the traditional craft of plaiting and the vibrant musical cabarets of the 1970/80s.

Let’s share an insight into more of our living heritage, where traditional crafts meets musical celebrations against the backdrop of our remarkable South Pacific island.

The Traditional Plaiting of Island hats

Learning to plait traditionally occurs within family settings, with knowledge passed from elders to younger generations through demonstration rather than formal instruction. Learning in this way ensures that subtle techniques are fully absorbed from the precise tension required for different fibres, the handling of transitions between plaiting and sewing together the hat, and the finishing methods that ensure durability.

Traditionally plaited hats represent far more than practical accessories on Norfolk Island; they embody cultural identity, social connections, and historical continuity. As one of the most visible expressions of local craftsmanship, the wearing of these hats have become powerful symbols our Norfolk heritage.

Many Norfolk hats within island families are treasured and preserved as family heirlooms rather than worn regularly, becoming repositories of family history - especially if they had been made by a family member who has passed and whom you wish to honour and remember by taking care of the hat and bringing it out to wear on special Norfolk events and commemorations. 

A Norfolk hat represents not only individual craftsmanship but participation in a living tradition that spans generations.

AUDIO>> Listen to Norfolk Islander Greg Magri as he shares his knowledge and insight into the materials, techniques and cultural significance of Norfolk Island's plaiting tradition.

And now, an audio snapshot of another rich component of our sound heritage collection > our love of music through the eras and community music events that brought locals together. This next collection of recordings was captures one of our community cabarets that celebrated the Beatles' extensive song catalogue. These events, were typically held in the historic Rawson Hall, represented a distinctive fusion of global popular culture and local community expression that continues to resonate in island memory.

The cabarets emerged organically from Norfolk Island's strong musical tradition, with local musicians gathering to recreate the complex harmonies and innovative instrumentation that characterized the Beatles' work.

These musical events were distinguished by their inclusive nature and voluntary participation. Unlike commercial performances, the Beatles cabarets operated on principles of community contribution, with islanders sharing musical talents regardless of professional training.

Behind-the-scenes roles were equally valued, with volunteers from the community contributing to the event organisation, refreshments and venue preparation. The communal nature of the experience - gathering in Rawson Hall with family & friends  - created emotional connections to the music that differed significantly from individual listening.

>>> AUDIO: A themed Beatles cabaret as held in Rawson Hall.
Ft. Garth Menzies, Kathy Lecren, Lorraine Hayde (Truk), Rob Ropati, Jen Buffett, Tom Darcy, 17 Oct 1988

Travelling to Norfolk Island offers so many holiday experiences combining natural beauty, fascinating history, and living cultural traditions. For visitors interested in experiencing the traditional crafts and musical heritage please reach out to the team at Baunti Tours who can help you to plan and engage with our  living cultural traditions. With thoughtful planning, you will be able to move beyond surface-level tourism to develop meaningful connections with our  island's distinctive heritage.

We look forward to welcoming you here!

Thanks so much for joining me this week!