We are thrilled to unveil the official conference artwork, crafted by local Aboriginal artist Aurora Abraham, which will be prominently featured throughout our event. This artwork, rich with cultural significance, connects our gathering to the heritage of Nyoongar Boodja and the traditions of Whadjuk Nyoongar Country. Each delegate will receive a special conference pin featuring this artwork, continuing a meaningful tradition started at our 2023 conference in Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand.

Aurora explains, “The dancer represents the oldest continuing form of leisure time physical activity. The formation of circles represents Nyoongar Boodja (Nyoongar land), with the circle of 14 dots representing each of the 14 Trible Clans of the Nyoongar Nation. The middle row of 6 dots represents the 6 Native Title groups, including all the 14 Tribal Clans. The 1 dot in the middle is for all Nyoongar Boodja. The lines behind the dancer represent the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River), that flows through Whadjuk Nyoongar Boodja.”

We look forward to welcoming conference delegates on Wednesday 20th November for Welcome to Country ceremony at 9 am at the Perth Cultural Centre. Join us beforehand for a short cultural walk along the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River). The walk is hosted by the Department of Transport and Heart Foundation, and along the way you will hear from Karen Jacobs a Traditional Owner of Whadjuk Boodja and representative of the Matagarup Elders Group which has provided valuable cultural input to inform the design and development of the nearby, and soon-to-be-opened, Causeway Pedestrian and Cyclist Bridges.

Meet at Point Fraser, from 7:15 am – 8:30 am. Registration is essential; reserve your spot here.