Join us for a special screening of in the heart of Boorloo-Perth, as part of the Once Known Film Series. Following the screening will be a conversation with Pop Ben Taylor Cuiermara AM (Noongar Yued) and Michelle White (Yamatji), Executive Producer, Community Arts Network.
Ngaluk Waangkiny – meaning “us talking” in Noongar language – is a ground breaking documentary sharing stories, knowledge and lived experiences through the voices of Aboriginal people, creating opportunities for dialogue, understanding and cultural connection. It follows the journey of a courageous group of Aboriginal Elders living on Whadjuk Noongar boodja as they fight for respect, recognition and acknowledgement from the City of Perth. Once banned from the city streets, these Elders now have a seat at the Council table and are making decisions that are quite literally changing the face of Boorloo – Perth.
Co-written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Poppy van Oorde-Grainger and acclaimed Noongar artist Ian Wilkes, this short film is rich with archival vision, personal histories and moments of profound change.
Following the screening, Executive Producer Michelle White and Pop Ben Taylor will reflect on the film’s themes and discuss the importance of storytelling, truth-telling and intergenerational knowledge sharing.
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, the artworks came home to Noongar Boodja, providing the opportunity for sharing truth, healing, and reconciliation. The Once Known film series aims to keep these conversations going, providing a platform for advocacy, celebration and truth-telling by sharing First Nations stories and voices with future generations.
Â鶹ֱ²¥ the Speakers
Michelle White – Executive Producer, Community Arts Network (CAN) – is a proud Yamatji storyteller, journalist and arts leader with more than 30 years’ experience across television, radio, print and digital media. An award-winning former ABC journalist, she currently works with Community Arts Network, where she develops projects that amplify First Nations stories, cultural knowledge and community-led truth-telling initiatives.
Ben Taylor Cuiermara AM – is a respected Noongar Yued Elder, activist, social justice advocate, and cultural leader and knowledge holder. A Member of the Order of Australia, he has spent decades championing Aboriginal rights, reconciliation and community wellbeing. Uncle Ben featured prominently in the Ngaluk Waangkiny project, sharing stories of resilience, leadership and cultural continuity.
Event Details
Tuesday 21 July 2026
12pm – 2pm (viewing & talk from 12:30pm)
Free event, open to the public.
Location: Once Known at Old Perth Boys’ School; Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace, Perth
Light refreshments provided.
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 at event registration.
Venue Information
Everyone is welcome. Plan your visit to Curtin 139 St Georges Terrace.
Header image: (left to right) Aunty Muriel Bowie, Aunty Margaret Culbong, Aunty Doolann Leisha Eatts, Uncle Albert McNamara, Uncle Noel Nannup, Uncle Ben Taylor Cuiermara, Aunty Irene McNamara, Aunty Theresa Walley, Uncle Farley Garlett, Uncle Walter Eatts // Image created using stills taken by Hugh Sando (courtesy of ABC Perth).
