Wales has certainly made its mark on Australia. From Australia’s first female prime minister (Julia Gillard born in Barry) to department store giants (David Jones born in Carmarthenshire) and pop stars (Kylie Minogue’s mother was born in Maesteg), and that’s just the start.

Australian towns are named after their Welsh counterparts (Cardiff, Swansea, Neath and Aberdare), and even a whole state (New South Wales was named by Captain James Cook, the British explorer, when he first landed in Australia in 1770 as the eastern coastline, with its cliffs and headlands, reminded him of the Welsh landscapes. Sometimes, Australia doesn’t seem so far from ‘the green, green grass of home’. 

Mever is the connection stronger than on March 1st, when Australia’s Welsh community celebrates Wales’ national day, Saint David’s Day, or Dydd Dewi Sant, with events happening up and down the country. We meet some of Australia’s Welsh community groups. 

Choral singing has become a vibrant and cherished tradition that thrives in Welsh communities, and its one that Welsh migrants brought to Australia with them. No surprise then that Australia has its fair share of Welsh choirs.

Sydney Welsh Choir, NSW

Sydney Welsh Choir, since its establishment in 1978, has been a vocal ambassador of Welsh culture in New South Wales. Comprising around 30 members from diverse backgrounds, the choir’s repertoire spans traditional Welsh tunes and global performances. Recently, they had the privilege of hosting Welsh singer John Ieuan Jones. Catch them rehearsing at West Ryde Community Centre Hall, and for more information, visit www.sydneywelshchoir.com.

Cantorion Sydney, NSW

Boasting 45 male members, Cantorion Sydney showcases a wide-ranging repertoire from Welsh traditionals to opera choruses. Their performances extend beyond concerts to weddings, dinners, and charity events. Rehearsing at the Welsh Church of Sydney, they collaborate with various ensembles, fostering a rich musical experience. Learn more at www.cantorionsydneychoir.com.

Australian Welsh Male Choir, VIC

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Australian Welsh Male Choir, with 50 members, honors the legacy of Welsh male choirs. They’ve toured globally, including the Royal Albert Hall, marking historical milestones. Join them on Sunday, February 25th, at St Mary’s Basilica Geelong, or on Friday, March 1st, for their 50th Anniversary Concert at Frankston Arts Centre. More details at www.awmc.org.au.

Victoria Welsh Choir (Vic Welsh), VIC

In its 45th year, Vic Welsh, a traditional Welsh men’s choir, enchants audiences with 15 concerts annually. Collaborations with renowned artists and their commitment to Welsh language contribute to their rich legacy. Catch them at the St David’s Day Concert on Sunday, 25th February, at Monash University. Learn more at www.vicwelshmenschoir.com.au.

Melbourne Welsh Male Choir, VIC

Established in 1984, the Melbourne Welsh Male Choir blends Welsh choral traditions with an Australian twist. With Mitchell Meyer as their new music director, the choir is set to captivate audiences on Sunday, March 3rd, at MLC James Tatoulis Auditorium in Kew. Details at www.melbournewelshchoir.com.au.

Mornington Peninsula Welsh Ladies Choir, VIC

Formed in 2018, this choir revives the Welsh ladies’ choir tradition, embodying the cultural essence of Wales. Join them in celebrating Welsh choral heritage on the Mornington Peninsula. Explore more at www.mpwlc.com.

Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir, VIC

A diverse group of 26 members, the Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir meets weekly, promoting Welsh culture through song. They embrace varied musical genres, including Welsh, English, Latin, Spanish, Maori, and Italian. Stay updated on their events at www.welshladieschoir.com.au.

Blackstone-Ipswich Cambrian Choir Inc, QLD

Originating in 1886, this Queensland-based choir has evolved into an organisation with five ensembles. They contribute to Ipswich’s cultural scene, recently participating in the 140th anniversary of the Blackstone United Welsh Church. Learn more at www.cambrianchoir.org.au.

Welsh Society of Western Australia, WA

Celebrating more than fifty years, the Welsh Society of Western Australia fosters Welsh culture in Perth. Beyond St David’s Day festivities, they organise a variety of events throughout the year, maintaining a diverse and inclusive membership. Explore more at www.wawelshsociety.org.au.

Pictures: Sydney Welsh Choir who rehearse at West Ryde. Credit: Thanks to Sydney Welsh Choir

ST DAVID’S DAY EVENTS

FEB 25:

Victoria Welsh Choir St David’s Day Concert, Monash University VIC 

St David’s Day with The Australian Male Welsh Choir, Saint Mary of the Angels Basilica, Geelong VIC

MAR 1:

Australian Welsh Male Choir St David’s Day 50th Anniversary Concert, Frankston Arts Centre VIC

St David’s Day Flag Raising Melbourne Welsh Church VIC

St David’s Day Flag Lowering, Australian Standing Stones, Glen Innes NSW

MAR 2:

Gymanfa Ganu 2024, St Paul’s Cathedral, Melbourne VIC

Cymru Gold Coast Wales St David’s Day meetup at Alleygators, Currumbin QLD

MAR 3:

Melbourne Welsh Male Choir St David’s Day Celebration, MLC  James Tatoulis Auditorium, Kew VIC

WHO WAS SAINT DAVID?

St David, the patron saint of Wales, was a Welsh bishop born in the 6th century.

Known for founding monasteries and churches, St David became renowned as a teacher and preacher.

Legend has it that during the Synod of Brefi, the ground beneath him rose, creating a small hill, while a white dove settled on his shoulder.

St David’s Cathedral, located in Pembrokeshire, stands on the site of the monastery he founded.

St David’s symbol is the leek, and his emblem is a white dove.

St David’s Day, celebrated on March 1st, involves various traditions, including wearing leeks or daffodils, attending parades, and enjoying traditional Welsh cuisine.