Stiff Gins, 2000

Stiff Gins are musical duo Nardi Simpson and Kaleena Briggs. Known for positive acoustic melodies in Aboriginal language they began as a trio, including Emma Donovan, after meeting at Eora College, Redfern, in 1999. The word ‘gin’ was originally a Dharug word for woman/wife, but became a derogatory word for an Aboriginal woman. Their moniker ‘Stiff Gins’ reclaimed this offensive reference to Aboriginal women, a banner to guide their music in the direction of strength and pride.