AUSTRALIA. Perth Airport has partnered with the Community Arts Network (CAN) in a powerful First Nations truth-telling exhibition.
The Terminal 4 exhibition marks NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week, which runs from 3 to 10 July, and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The multimedia Nglauk Waangkiny (Us Talking) exhibition, which will run throughout July, honours the lives and legacies of ten respected Aboriginal Elders. It includes large-scale photos, quotes and podcasts links, giving travellers the opportunity to look, listen and learn about Perth’s Aboriginal history and culture.
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.
The exhibition includes an artistic representation of Boorloo (Perth) by Noongar/Saibai artist Tyrown Waiganga and a range of performances and other activities.
The Western Australian airport company said it is committed to engaging with the local Aboriginal community to recognise the strong connections with the airport estate.
Perth Airport Chief Commercial Officer Kate Holsgrove pointed out that 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. “We are proud to recognise this rich cultural heritage,” she said.
“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 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: Get Up. Stand Up. Show Up.
“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,” Holsgrove added.
Over the past 12 years, Perth Airport has also provided scholarships to the value of A$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,” Holsgrove added.
Note: The Moodie Davitt Report has a regular publication titled Airport Consumer Experience, produced in association with Airport Dimensions, dedicated to airport guest services and experiences.
To subscribe free of charge please email Kristyn@MoodieDavittReport.com headed ‘Airport Customer Experience’. All stories are permanently archived on the Airport Consumer Experience page on this website.
