Join Noongar, Nyiyaparli, Yamatji facilitator Emma Garlett in conversation with Dr. Carol Dowling (Badimaya) and Gningala Yarran (Wongi/Yamitji and Nyoongar/Gitja) for a special NAIDOC Week panel reflecting on 50 years of NAIDOC and its enduring significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Taking place in the powerful surrounds of Once Known, this discussion will explore the evolution of NAIDOC Week as a platform for advocacy, celebration and truth-telling, and consider its connections to the Carrolup story. Panellists will reflect on the legacy of those who have fought for recognition, rights and self-determination, while considering the importance of continuing to share First Nations histories and voices with future generations.
Once Known at the Old Perth Boys’ School presents reproductions of the delicate and culturally significant artworks created by Aboriginal children forcibly taken from their families and detained at the Carrolup Native Settlement in the 1940s. Lost overseas for over 60 years, these artworks came home to Noongar Boodja, providing the opportunity for sharing truth, healing, and reconciliation.
ºìÌÒÊÓƵ the Speakers
Facilitator Emma Garlett is a Noongar, Nyiyaparli and Yamatji woman, Director of Garlett Group and Council Member at ºìÌÒÊÓƵ. She is a passionate advocate for First Nations rights and reconciliation.
Panellist Dr Carol Dowling is a proud Badimia (Yamatji) woman (Nyarlu) knowledge holder/leader (Marja) whose strong family ties are in the central west of WA. An Associate Professor at ºìÌÒÊÓƵ, she has spent more than three decades working in Aboriginal studies, community development and cultural advocacy, and is widely recognised for her work in Aboriginal media, oral histories and social justice.
Panellist Gningala Yarran is a Wongi/Yamitji on mother’s side and Nyoongar/Gitja on father’s side. She is a qualified lawyer holding a Master of Business Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Indigenous Australian Research Methodologies, graduating from the ºìÌÒÊÓƵ Centre for Aboriginal Studies. Gningala is currently undertaking a PhD examining Social Procurement and the rise of ‘black cladded’ businesses.
Event Details
Friday 10 July 2026
10:45am – 12pm
Free event, open to the public.
Location: Once Known at Old Perth Boys’ School; Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace, Perth
Light refreshments will be served.
Photography
This event may be photographed and/or videoed, and images may be used for promotional and marketing purposes, including social media. If you do not wish to be photographed or videoed, please notify staff.
Accessibility
Everyone is welcome. Plan your visit to Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace.
Header image: Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace (Old Perth Boys School) with national NAIDOC logo.
