New exhibition at Perth Airport celebrates First Nation elders

As part of its NAIDOC Week celebrations, Perth Airport has partnered with the Community Arts Network (CAN) on an exciting First Nations truth telling exhibition in Terminal 4.

The land on which the airport operates forms part of the traditional network of communication routes, meeting places and camping sites of the Noongar people, and the gateway says that it is proud to recognise this rich cultural heritage.

“The multimedia truth telling exhibition – Nglauk Waangkiny – honours the lives and legacies of 10 respected Aboriginal Elders and will be available to view in Terminal 4 over the next month,” said Perth Airport’s chief commercial officer, Kate Holsgrove.

“In what will be a first for Perth Airport, large scale photos, quotes and podcast links will be displayed in the departure lounge, giving travellers the opportunity to look, listen and learn about Perth’s Aboriginal history and culture.

“Through this exhibit we are pleased to be able to provide an opportunity for passengers to engage with and experience these fascinating and important stories.

CAN’s CEO, Wendy Martin, said it was exciting to see the outcome of the Elders truth-telling project being showcased during NAIDOC week, particularly as all of the Elders exemplify this year’s theme of ‘Get Up. Stand Up. Show Up’.

The exhibition includes an impressive artistic representation of Boorloo (Perth) by Noongar/Saibai artist Tyrown Waiganga.

The Ngaluk Waagnkiny Elders featured are Uncle Ben Taylor, Aunty Muriel Bowie, Aunty Margaret Culbong, Uncle Farley Garlett, Aunty Theresa Walley, Uncle Noel Nannup, Aunty Irene and Uncle Albert McNamara and Aunty Doolann Leisha and Uncle Walter Eatts.

Perth Airport notes that it is committed to engaging with the local Aboriginal community to recognise the strong connections with the airport estate.

“We have a Partnership Agreement with the Traditional Owners of the land as well as with the broader Noongar community, which provides the foundation for us to discuss airport planning and issues of cultural significance,” adds Holsgrove.

For the past 12 years, Perth Airport has also provided scholarships to the value of $15,000 to support Indigenous students during their tertiary studies at Edith Cowan University (ECU).

“Our partnership with ECU is very productive and we are proud that it has supported 14 students over its history,” enthused Holsgrove.

This year, our scholarship recipient Fabian Yarran will undertake a Bachelor of Law.