Noongar stories shared in Rockingham during National Reconciliation Week

THE stories of Noongar people with a connection to Rockingham will be shared at the Rockingham Central Library until June 1.

The photographic and audio exhibition coincides National Reconciliation Week and features 10 locals.

It captures the stories of Theresa Walley, Charlie Kickett, Doris Getta, Lindsay Calyun, Doreen Nelson, Trevor Walley, Benita Indich, Cheryl Martin, Annetta Ugle and Joe Collard.

Audio material accompanies photographic portraits and is available through the library catalogues as an online resource for the whole community.

Transcripts of each story will be produced and a compilation CD has been created using excerpts from each of the stories shared.

“The stories shared in the exhibition are personal and in some places are about profoundly painful experiences that have shaped lives,” Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said.

They also speak of courage, resilience, joy, pride and the enjoyment of simple pleasures.

“Through these stories we also get to hear about the deep, ongoing connection that Noongar people have to this region, and cultural knowledge that links people living here today with a long line of ancestors.”

The City engaged oral historian Jemma King and project coordinator Ivy Penny to work with local Noongar community members to record their stories for the exhibition.

Photography for the project was contributed by Trevor Walley and Hannah Salt, with musical material supplied by Justin Martin.

“The City’s Aboriginal Advisory Group played a central role in making this project happen and the City thanks all of the members for contributing their ideas, their knowledge and their valuable time, to make sure it was successful,” Mr Sammels said.

The exhibition is open from 9am to 7pm on Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm on Friday and 9am to 12pm on Saturday.