Bippera is a song that offers a deeper understanding of what connection to Country means to Indigenous Australians. It invites all Australians to recognise the sacredness of the land we live on and to develop a respectful relationship with Country.

The word 'bippera' refers to clapsticks in the Tjapukai language, one of the oldest musical instruments unique to Australia. More than just rhythm tools, clapsticks carry cultural meaning and evoke a deep sense of belonging. For many, the sound of bippera is grounding; it connects us to the land and each other. While some may view them as simple or primitive, clapsticks are ancient instruments whose sound echoes across more than 60,000 years of continuous culture, linking generations and calling all children of the land back to sacred connection through sound.

We encourage singers to engage with your local Indigenous community to find out the local word for ‘clapsticks’ and add this to the song to localise your version.

And if you dont have any bippers, you can always clap!