Last Friday we celebrated National Reconciliation Week and the launch of CAN's exciting new legacy project Ngaluk Waangkiny (Us Talking) which includes a short film, a series of podcasts and a book.

This multi-media project follows the life journey of 10 respected Elders living in Boorloo (Perth).

Through the generous sharing of their stories, they shine a light on a part of this state's history that has been kept in the shadows.

A huge thank you to our friends at ABC Perth who allowed us to turn their cavernous Studio 61 into a stunning venue for the launch.

The audience was treated to the World Premiere of the short film Ngaluk Waangkiny (Us Talking). The film was co-directed and written by Poppy van Oorde-Grainger and Ian Wilkes. Ngaluk Waangkiny follows the journey of the Elders as they fight for respect and recognition in the City of Perth.

Watch on ABC iView

Phil Walleystack was our MC for the evening. He was also the host of Ni! Means Listen podcast series featuring conversations with each of the Elders, Aunty Irene and Uncle Albert McNamara, Uncle Noel Nannup, Aunty Muriel Bowie, Uncle Ben Taylor, Uncle Farley Garlett, Aunty Theresa Walley, Aunty Doolann Leisha Eatts and Uncle Walter Eatts.

Aunties Theresa and Doolann passed during the making of the project, but they gave permission for their stories to remain a part of the project - to be a part of their legacy.

Listen to the Ni! Means Listen podcast on....

Spotify

Amazon

Apple Music

We also launched Stories of Resistance, a stunning publication featuring observational photographs of each Elder, taken by Noongar photographer Cole Baxter. The photos are accompanied by story vignettes edited by Michelle White.

Read the book

This year's National Reconciliation Week theme is Be Brave, Make Change. It couldn't make me more apt.

CAN is so grateful for all the support that made this project possible.

Thank you to the City of Perth, ABC, the Aesop Foundation, Australia Council for the Arts and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.... and all our artists and Elders.

Their stories. Their words. Their legacy.