Honorary Senior Fellow (May 2021)
Uncle Kevin Starkey was named Honorary Senior Fellow in September 2021 in recognition of his devotion to the mentorship of emerging First Nations artists through the establishment of Darkwood Studios and the substantial impact that his generosity in this field has had on the cultural landscape of the region.
Born on Gubbi Gubbi country, Uncle Kevin’s story is one of diversity and generosity. With over two decades of knowledge in First Nations music practice and industry, his contribution is now centred around Darkwood Studios, the most significant emerging Record Label and First Nations Cultural Services and Consultancy in the region.
Through Darkwood’s community work, Uncle Kevin mentors and builds capacity with emerging First Nations artists in partnership with USC, Local and State government arts organisations, and national music industry.
He also works closely with the USC music team, to create a meaningful culturally representative set of courses in First Nations music, knowledge, consultation and practice. This will effectively make USC’s Bachelor of Music the only degree in Australia with a First Nations Music Minor.
In recognition of his significant contribution to the fields of First Nations’ music, Indigenous language preservation, environmental education, and cultural representation, Uncle Kevin Starkey is a worthy recipient of the honorary award of Senior Fellow of the University of the Sunshine Coast.