Latest news with #Noongar
West Australian
a day ago
- Entertainment
- West Australian
Authors inspire senior students with stories of identity, culture and creativity at reading challenge panel
Senior students at Geraldton Senior High School were treated to an inspiring Q&A-style author panel on Thursday as part of the 2025 Premier's Reading Challenge, which has extended its reach to Year 11 and 12 students for the first time. The event featured renowned Geraldton-born author Holden Sheppard, award-winning graphic novelist Aska and Jayden Boundry — a Noongar language teacher and cultural consultant, didgeridoo player, traditional dancer and storyteller with Ngalak Nidja. Each shared their own unique creative journeys. Sheppard spoke candidly to the students about his struggles with high school and identity, and how writing became a powerful outlet. Aska delved into the art of combining words and visuals to tell stories, and spoke of her time as a quantum physicist and how that shaped her into the author she is today. Boundry reflected on the importance of culture and oral storytelling in his work. The Premier's Reading Challenge, which had previously been open only to students from kindergarten to Year 10, was expanded this year to include Year 11 and 12 students across WA and encourages students to develop a love of books, reading and improve language and literacy skills. The panel of exceptional authors and storytellers had a profound effect on Geraldton senior students as they became more engaged as the discussion continued. The main messaged discussed was that reading and writing are not only a 'nerdy' pastime, but also a powerful tool that can be used for expression, education and culture — something meaningful and personal.
Canberra Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Canberra Times
The changes we need to make to the war memorial's governing council
Finally, if the outcome of the Voice referendum has inhibited proper commemoration of the Australian Wars at the memorial, we offer the Defending Country theme. "Defending Country" applies to all who have fought for Australia or parts of it, just as much to First Australians (Arrernte, Noongar, Wiradjuri and others), defending their Country on Country (and often dying on Country), as to uniformed Australians fighting our overseas wars. An emphasis on Defending Country does not divide Australians, but treats them equally, black and white, those not in uniform and those in uniform. Defending Country is a theme that should appeal to a bold, ambitious government.
ABC News
3 days ago
- General
- ABC News
Noongar artist Denzel Coyne on how learning to carve wood helped him heal
Denzel Coyne shows his young daughter how to throw a kylie, or boomerang, he made from jarrah wood. A descendent of a Stolen Generation survivor, the Noongar man with connections to Menang and Goreng Country started learning to make traditional Indigenous artefacts for the first time as an adult. Once he had begun, there was no looking back. On Menang Country in Albany, Western Australia, Coyne spends his days carving, sanding and polishing everything from shields to spears. "It helps me escape my past traumas, it helps me heal." It's a sense of healing, through reclaiming culture, he wants to offer other descendants of Stolen Generation survivors, as well as people who have experienced similar struggles. For Coyne, those struggles began with deeply painful early years. "At a very young age, I lost my mother, tragically. Someone murdered her when I was seven years old," he said. "I struggled without having my mother there to nurture and show me love. "From there, my dad basically raised the four of us by himself; me and my siblings. "Dad was part of a Stolen Generation and unintendedly, a lot of the Stolen Generations traumatic events and life's challenges and stuff like that was sort of passed down in a lot of ways." His dad later went to prison, Coyne said, and he was moved to a house where he was abused. As an adult, he struggled with drug and alcohol addiction, doing several stints in jail. But when he became a father, his outlook began to change. "I think I needed a daughter to change my direction in life, really help me look at life in a whole new light." He was still in the grips of addiction, when Denzel said he was given an ultimatum. "Go to rehab, or I wouldn't be able to take my daughter home," he said. "That day was one of the hardest days of my life. I knew what I had to do." It was during the rehab program that an Aboriginal instructor began teaching Coyne, and the rest of the men's group, how to carve artefacts. "He wanted us to do some tactile learning, something that we can take away from that program, and to help uplift us when we're in a sad time," Coyne said. "Maybe if we didn't have that, I might not have stuck around, I just feel it was so important." On the other side of rehab, Coyne has started his own business, Born Wirn, and is carving out commissions for traditional artefacts. "It means tree spirit," he said. "I bring out the beauty and the grain of the wood and the grain represents the years of the wood, his spirit." Coyne is continuing to refine his skills, borrowing artefacts to study, and calling friends to share what knowledge they can. He strongly believes he is being guided by his ancestors as he learns. Coyne has also encouraged his partner, Noongar woman Penelope Williams, to take up the women's side of the business. For the most part, she was teaching herself. "He couldn't show me because it was woman side of things, but I think he trusted that I would be able to do it, so I got out there and then I started making them," Williams said. "I was in juvenile detention and that's where I learnt woodwork and wood burning, that has really helped me starting this. "When I first made my first one, I was so proud, I couldn't believe that I did it. "And the connection that I feel to my culture while making them, it's hard to describe, but I know making this stuff has helped heal my spirit." The process has prompted the couple to teach their hard-earned skills, holding workshops and talks with school groups and even at a hospital. "I think we could help lots of people, you know, just heal," Williams said. "We're giving them knowledge and culture that was taken." For Coyne, the work keeps him concentrated and connected. "I feel connected, spiritually, mentally," he said. "The whole process, it just gives me so much."
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Why Perth has more to offer than just Ashes cricket this winter
'Kaya, nidja Wadjak Boodja' - Welcome to Whadjuk Country. It is a greeting you can expect to hear from the traditional owners of Western Australia when exploring the capital city of Perth and its surrounding areas. Its prevalence in many of Perth's tours, advertisements and institutions reveals a growing desire to respect the culture and traditions of the aboriginal population as part of a greater push to invest, build and reinvigorate the city in new and exciting ways. This is easily epitomised by the Perth Stadium but known as the Optus Stadium for sponsorship reasons. Officially opened in 2018 the stadium sits on the banks of the Swan River, a towering mass of brushed metal designed to emulate the landscape of Western Australia. It's an impressive sight and one that will dazzle English cricket fans when they flock in droves to Perth this November for the Ashes. Spectators will be able to partake in the stadium's Rooftop Climb experience and watch the cricket high in the sky or they can head to the nearby Matagarup Bridge for a more challenging climb and a fun zip line across the river. Perth is a bountiful city full of sights to explore, places to visit, and things to discover. Visitors wanting to branch out from the city's sporting roots will find plenty to satisfy them and below we've outlined some of best offerings Western Australia has in store. King's Park and Botanic Gardens. Situated in the heart of the city and overlooking the mass of skyscrapers, Kings Park ( is one of the world's largest inner-city green spaces. It has incredible views of the Swan River and several walking trails through its botanic gardens. For a more illuminating trip combine with In-Culture Tours ( and learn about the origins of the Whadjuk Noongar, the aboriginal owners of the land Perth sits on and how they used the plants from the gardens in their everyday life. Tour owner and guide, Steven Jacobs, aims to give visitors a quick yet detailed insight into the culture of his Whadjuk ancestors and you will learn about the six seasons of the Noongar calendar, each based on an aspect of the natural world from blooming plants to the hibernation of animals, as well as aboriginal dreamtime and the Waugal – the rainbow serpent who is an embodiment of life and water. Explore the city. In the city, Elizabeth Quay is a central hub with pop up projects, such as aboriginal art installations and music events on display throughout the summer. Close by in Barrack Square is the famous Bell Tower where visitors can take a tour of the distinct building, learn about the English history of its 12 bells from St Martin-in-the-Fields Church and discover how the tower's design was conceived following an architectural competition. Perhaps combine sightseeing with foot tasting and head out on a Foodloose Tour ( an original Perth tour that takes visitors on a journey through the vibrant Northbridge, uncovering hidden gems, culinary must-dos and the latest food and drink hotspots. Visit Freemantle. An absolute must do for any trip to Perth. The City of Freemantle is a 20-minute drive or train journey away from the city centre. Labelled 'Freo' by the locals, Fremantle is a hive of independent businesses from second hand bookstores to markets and various eclectic food and drink establishments. It is a living shine to the European history of the area with museums, tours and a prison that each hold key details and stories about the birth and development of the region. Head out with experienced guides on a tour with Two Feet and a Heartbeat ( to learn about the significance of the limestone buildings and the difference between Convict and Federation era architecture. Stop off for a hot drink on the Cappuccino Strip, named as such for the plethora of coffee shops that populate South Terrace, and call in at the prison for one of the four tours that explain the history and significance of the building from how it was built to the countless escape attempts from famous inmates. As far as shopping goes, the century-old Fremantle markets ( are open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and feature top-notch food stalls, local souvenir and textile shops as well as fresh produce for those who like to sample local delicacies. As a port city, boat trips are also available from Fremantle to the nearby Rottnest Island and there are two museums, the Shipwreck Museum and the WA Maritime Museum, which detail the dangers of exploration and discovery at sea. Go to Rottnest Island As previously mentioned, ferry trips to Rottnest Island ( can be taken from Fremantle or the Perth city centre and cost $85 (£40.50) a return. Sat 18km off shore, it is a half hour boat ride away and is the sun, sea and surf holiday destination for Australians. Resembling a seriously up-market Haven Park, Rottnest is undergoing a $42m redevelopment to create a 109-room, 5-star hotel which hopes to reflect the cultural history of the island. Named The Lodge Wadjemup to honour the aboriginal people's name for the island the hotel has lake view rooms, and a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant called Sunsets which hopes to amaze visitors with its style and class. Other accommodation includes eco discovery tents, cabins and beach-side chalets while Segway Tours WA ( offer a fun, humorous, enjoyable, and knowledgeable way to explore the island. There are plenty of spots to swim, snorkel and enjoy water sports and as the home to Australia's quokka population Rottnest is a protected nature reserve. Head to the beach Cottesloe Beach is accessible by car or train and stretches along the west coast just 20 minutes from the city centre. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, but not overly crowded, the white sand beach offers sun and sea favoured by holiday goers while British tourists will appreciate Amberjacks - a fish and chip shop right on the promenade. Water activities are in abundance including surfing, windsurfing and bodyboarding. For the sports minded Sea View Golf Club is a little walk down the sea front heading towards Fremantle. See the Swan Valley vineyards and distilleries Another must do. Spend a day or two north of Perth in the Swan Valley ( Over 150 attractions including vineyards and distilleries are open to visit and experience. Old Young's Gin Distillery ( which specialises in award winning gins and vodkas, is an authentic family run business for over 10 years. Owner James Young offers tastings and lunch as well as a brief insight into the history of the region. Just don't ask him his opinion on cricket unless you have a whole afternoon free to chat. No trip to the Swan Valley is complete without a stop off at the impressive Mandoon Estate. Established in 2008 by the Erceg family who purchased the historical 'Roe Family property' in Caversham, the estate focuses on a range of premium wines. It has three dining venues in the Wild Swan, Homestead Brewery and The Lawn and even provides accommodation for lengthier stays in the Swan Valley. Nestled right on the Swan River, the Mandoon Estate can be reached by boat, car or bus and supplies unique and local beers from in its brewery alongside the large variety of homegrown wines. For those looking to enjoy Australia's distinctive wildlife, the Swan Valley is also home to the Caversham Wildlife Park ( Home to over 2000 animals and 200 species, the Wildlife Park hosts animal presentations every day so visitors can get a feel for the Australian wildlife. Special tickets are available to hold koala's, meet wombats and feed kangaroos and a child-friendly farm show explores how local farmers survive and thrive in Western Australia. Check out the WACA redevelopment Cricket fans heading to Perth will want to visit the WACA. It is a ground full of history and tradition most often viewed in the early hours of the morning on television from across the world. The place of Adam Gilchrist's record-breaking test century in 2006 has undergone a major redevelopment since the Perth Stadium was constructed. Two swimming pools, a public gym and a sports museum are in the process of being added for the benefit of the local community while the facilities for athletes are being upgraded to meet ICC standards. Traditionalists fear not though as the ground retains its character and continues to host cricket matches from the Sheffield Shield to Women's Big Bash games. Crown Towers For visitors who prioritise proximity to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers is the height of luxury with three expansive lagoon pools, fine dining restaurants and up-market shopping. Built in 2016 in compliment to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers has unparalleled views of the city skyline and the exclusive Crystal Club experience provides personalised service. Located on the 15th floor it offers an open terrace, sparkling champagne, concierge services, complimentary breakfasts and evening canapes. Book here. Hougoumont Hotel Heading to Fremantle? The quaint and quirky Hougoumont Hotel is a stone's throw away from the Cappuccino Strip and has small boutique rooms built using shipping containers. It is themed to suit the nearby surroundings of the port and offers Cabin and State rooms decked out with luxuries such as Nespresso coffee machines and toiletries fom Apelles Apothecary. For a slightly more historically themed place to stay look to Airbnb to hire out former prison warder cottages. Book here. DoubleTree by Hilton If a place in the city centre is desired, the DoubleTree by Hilton is perfectly situated on the Swan River just off Barrack Square. Its quayside location provides easy access to boats that head to the Perth Stadium or Swan Valley and a 10-minute walk will bring you into downtown Perth where you can visit the shopping malls and historic buildings like the Old Court and Royal Perth Mint. Book here. Pink Taquito - Yagan Square Stories ( is a five-storey precinct in Yagan Square populated by nine bars, three restaurants, pop-up and rooftop bars and Perth's biggest beer garden. There truly is something for everyone from live music to colourful cocktails. The latest chapter at the prolific Stories establishment is Pink Taquito. A small but fun bar that provides an electric atmosphere with delightful tacos and tequila-favoured cocktails. Authentic Mexican food delivered with a modern and cheeky twist Pink Taquito will delight with its street-style food and bright creations. The Reveley - Elizabeth Quay This three-floor precinct established in 2016 offers different vibes and cuisines depending on where you dine. The ground floor favours family friendly bistro pub food while the first-floor restaurant serves contemporary modern Australian dining and fresh ocean fish including the seasonal barramundi with fennel dressing. The final floor is a rooftop bar complete with live DJs, bar service and cocktails. Il Lido Canteen – Cottesloe Columns of wine decorate the interior of this consistently busy Italian restaurant just off Cottesloe beach. Four long wooden tables encourage a friendly and familial atmosphere in Il Lido ( while large chalkboard menus, dim lighting and whitewashed walls provide a distinctly Italian feel to the Western Australian coastline. Standouts from the menu include Shark Bay scallops and the Italian sausage and datterino gigli. Tonic & Ginger (The Old Synagogue) - Fremantle One of four unique hospitality venues situated in a former Jewish synagogue, Tonic & Ginger is a bright and vibrous venue specialising in Asian cuisine. It's sharing menu encourages conversation between delicate but substantial courses. Try the fire cracker cauliflower with bang bang sauce or the all-encompassing $72 Feed Me course option. Perth package holiday deal Six nights accommodation and tickets to all 5 days of the first NRMA Insurance Ashes Test in Perth plus a six day Margaret River and Albany Self drive trip including accommodation and all inclusive car hire with international flights from London Heathrow. From £2470 per person:
ABC News
5 days ago
- General
- ABC News
Parking at Margaret River Pro exposes tension in Australia's biggest native title agreement
A dispute over parking at a major surfing event has exposed tension within the country's largest native title agreement as traditional owners accuse the West Australian government of undermining their authority. Five of the six regional native title bodies for the Noongar people say they are concerned the state government is undermining their agreed role as the foremost representatives in decision-making and consultation. The Yued, Gnaala Karla Booja, Ballardong, Wagyl Kaip Southern Noongar, and Karri Karrak Aboriginal corporations issued a joint statement to the ABC reiterating their role as the "front door" for people and organisations seeking to engage with traditional custodians and operate on country. "Only the Noongar Regional Corporations are required by law to represent all the people in their respective agreement areas — other organisations can only lay claim to representing a small subsection," the statement said. The groups' disquiet stems from the approval of parking near an Aboriginal burial site for the recent Margaret River Pro despite repeated objections from the Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation. Aboriginal Affairs Minister Don Punch recently defended the approval citing consultation and endorsement from the Undalup Association, a not-for-profit organisation formed in 2012 by Wardandi traditional custodians. The regional corporations have limited statutory authority under the state's 1972 Aboriginal Heritage Act and proponents are only legally required to engage with Noongar corporations when an Aboriginal heritage survey is required. Karri Karrak director and Wardandi woman Nicole Casey said the minister's position undermined the representative role of native title bodies set out in the terms of the 2021 South West Native Title Settlement — the biggest settlement in WA's history. "It certainly feels like it undermines the intent and purpose of that very difficult process," she said. In a statement to the ABC the World Surfing League said it received "all required permits through the correct avenues as advised by the state government". A Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage spokesperson said regional corporations played an important role in providing advice on cultural heritage matters. "The WA government encourages meaningful engagement and consultation with regional corporations as a key representative body for traditional owners in the region," the spokesperson said. There has been growing tension about Undalup and Karri Karrak's roles in Aboriginal cultural heritage consultation in the South West. Karri Karrak recently issued two statements rebuking proponents who had sought the endorsement of Undalup instead of its own. The second takes exception to the World Surfing League's approved use of the registered Aboriginal heritage site for parking, again with Undalup's support. Ms Casey said the relationship with Undalup was sensitive. "The Undalup Association is made up of people who are, for the most part, also members of the Karri Karrak Aboriginal Corporation — they are traditional owners of the region," she said. "It's always been our intention to walk respectfully with Undalup and to continue to develop those relationships they've spent many long years building up in the community, but the reality is the corporation was established for a purpose." The ABC has repeatedly contacted Undalup for comment on this matter. Yued Aboriginal Corporation chief executive Rewi Lyall said Noongar corporations' legal obligation to consult and represent the interests of traditional owners made their role vital in all relevant consultations within an agreement area. "Only the relevant native title body for a particular agreement area can ensure that everybody who is entitled to express an opinion about an act or decision affecting Aboriginal cultural heritage has an opportunity to do so," he said.
