RUMINATIONS ON COUNTRY
BOORNA WAANGINY SYMPOSIUM
Image: Jess Wyld
Inspired by Noongar perspectives and Western science, and developed in association with scientists, botanists and school children, Boorna Waanginy: The Trees Speak explores the inter-connectedness of all life, the fragile beauty of South West Australia’s landscape and the threats it now faces.
Join us for an afternoon of storytelling and discussion offering perspectives on Country and uncover and explore the themes of Boorna Waanginy.
SCHEDULE
2pm Elders Speak:
Elders share stories of life, environment and resilience with warmth, wisdom and humanity. Carol Innes hosts a conversation with Noongar Elders reflecting on their own lives and the lives of their ancestors.
3pm Perspectives on Country:
The convergence of Noongar oral history and Western science is slowly moving towards a shared understanding of care for Country. What might our future look like if Western and ancient cultures join forces to preserve and protect our environment? Ruth Little hosts a conversation with Meningah (Minang) Noongar Elder and cultural heritage adviser Elder Lynette Knapp and conservation botanist Professor Stephen Hopper. Lynette Knapp is a Meningah (Minang) Noongar elder with a living memory of her extended family’s knowledge of Country, plants and animals, and growing up in a global biodiversity hotspot near a spectacular coastline on the south west coast. Professor Stephen Hopper is a conservation biologist who leads a research and teaching program on sustainable living with biodiversity at The University of Western Australia’s Albany campus. He has a particular focus on cross-cultural studies with Aboriginal people
4pm Illuminating our World:
Boorna Waanginy, a stunning outdoor spectacular, also delivers a powerful message – a call to action for the protection of our environment. Can artists inspire us towards a better future? Ruth Little discusses this question with Boorna Waanginy creators Richard Walley, Nigel Jamieson, Zoë Atkinson and Sohan Ariel Hayes, along with Educator and Ecologist Mandy Bamford and Perth Festival artistic director Wendy Martin.
STATE THEATRE CENTRE OF WA
10 Feb 2019
Sun 10 Feb 2pm-5pm
Free Event