“Waangka danjoo nyininy”

A new Yarning Circle to launch on Pibulmun Noongar Country

A new space for gathering, storytelling and cultural exchange will be officially launched this April at Manjimup Heritage Park, marking an important step in recognising and celebrating Aboriginal culture on Pibulmun Noongar Country.

Our Yarning Circle – Waangka danjoo nyininy (Talking Sitting Together) has been developed over several years through genuine collaboration between Southern Forest Arts and members of the local Aboriginal community. The project responds to a long-identified need for a dedicated place where culture can be shared, knowledge passed on, and community connections strengthened.

Covering the circle is a hand-carved tile mosaic of approximately 2500 pieces, based on a design by Noongar artist Cassandra Bynder, and created with artist Teresa Richards alongside 200+ students from six schools across the region. The project has engaged young people in cultural learning through the broader Boodja Ni program, incorporating songwriting, puppetry and visual storytelling as part of the circle’s creation.

Songs to be performed at the launch have been co-created with students and Noongar artist Kobi Morrison, while puppets featured in the celebration were developed through school, community and Aboriginal-led workshops with artist Karen Hethey. Together, these elements reflect a shared process of making, learning and storytelling across generations.

The launch event will begin at the Sandra Donovan Soundshell with a smoking ceremony, Welcome to Country, music and storytelling, before the community is guided to the yarning circle for its official opening. Led by Elders, the unveiling will include the lighting of the fire pit, symbolising the circle as a place for ongoing gathering, reflection and exchange.

The yarning circle is grounded in cultural knowledge, respect and leadership. The Shire of Manjimup has been a key partner in supporting the development of this important cultural asset.

Aunty Sue Kelly, a respected Noongar Elder, reflected on the cultural significance of the space:

“For thousands of years Noongar people have been sitting down in a circle to share stories, to share kaatidjin (knowledge), and to participate equally in making decisions in a safe place without fear of retribution.

We hope Waangka Danjoo Nyininy is a sought after place for the whole community of Manjimup from time to time, to sit and talk, and to reflect on the rich Noongar culture which is presented in the creation story depicted by the ceramic tiles showcasing the art of koolungars (children) from many schools in the area.”

Artist Teresa Richards, who worked closely with students to realise the mosaic, shared:

“I didn’t get it right from the start, I underestimated the scale,  but I stayed with it, and that’s where the growth’s been. It pushed me further than I expected, physically and mentally, but it’s also brought a real joy in the making.

It’s made me stronger, more honest in my practice, and more connected to why this work matters, committing to something bigger than yourself, and the power of working together.”

Shire of Manjimup President Donelle Buegge highlighted the broader community impact:

“This project is a strong example of community leadership making a real difference. The yarning circle in Manjimup Heritage Park provides a welcoming, culturally respectful space for people to share stories, learn from one another, and strengthen connections across generations.

It will play an important role in recognising and celebrating Aboriginal culture in our region, while encouraging reflection and a deeper appreciation of local heritage. Projects like this help build a more inclusive and connected community for everyone.”

Beyond the launch, the yarning circle will serve as a lasting community asset, a place for sharing kaaditjin (knowledge), celebration, learning and remembrance, while also increasing visibility and understanding of Aboriginal culture within the wider community.

The community is warmly invited to attend this special event and be part of a shared moment of connection, culture and future-making.

EVENT DETAILS

What: Launch of Our Yarning Circle – Waangka danjoo nyininy
When: 11am, Wednesday 22 April
Where: Manjimup Heritage Park, Pibulmun Noongar boodja
Cost: Free
Who: Everyone welcome

RSVP: https://events.humanitix.com/our-yarning-circle-community-celebration