Curtin University hosted Yoowarl Koorl: ReconciliAction and Indigenous Futures, an inspiring showcase of Indigenous creativity, resilience, and cultural connection. The event, held on Monday, highlighted collaborative research projects designed to elevate Indigenous voices and advance the shared vision of “reconciliAction” through powerful storytelling and innovative technologies.
Among the standout projects were a 3D animation of former AFL player Dale Kickett and an immersive virtual reality “Welcome to Country” experience with ALFW player Alicia Janz. Together, these works underscored the transformative potential of digital media in preserving and sharing Indigenous culture. Projects like these, featuring former Fremantle Dockers players and Curtin University researchers, offered attendees a deeper understanding of identity, community, and the power of creative expression to bridge cultural divides.
Dean of Indigenous Futures, Associate Professor Mandy Downing, expressed admiration for the impact and creativity on display. “These unique creative projects exemplify Curtin’s dedication to Indigenous engagement, reconciliAction, and innovation,” Downing remarked. “Yoowarl Koorl, meaning ‘come this way’ in Noongar, is part of our ongoing journey of reconciliAction, creating a meaningful space for Indigenous stories, voices, and creativity.” She also noted the project’s continuity with Curtin’s enduring partnership with the Fremantle Football Club, which celebrates an AFL record of maintaining Indigenous representation on the field over the past 30 years.
Each project showcased at Yoowarl Koorl combined cultural content with cutting-edge technology, reflecting a shared commitment to preserving and advancing Indigenous narratives. Among the four key works displayed:
- Podcast Reflection: Former Fremantle player Troy Cook partnered with Curtin journalism lecturer Dr Glynn Greensmith to produce a podcast where Cook discusses his personal journey, the community’s impact, and the importance of Indigenous storytelling.
- Virtual Reality Welcome to Country Experience: A project at Curtin HIVE led by Dr Kerreen Ely Harper, with former AFLW player Alicia Janz, crafted an immersive virtual reality experience, inviting attendees to engage with a “Welcome to Country” in a deeply personal, virtual format.
- 3D Animation of Dale Kickett’s Story: This collaboration, involving Kickett, writer Dr David Whish-Wilson, and animator Jonathan Pillai, brought Kickett’s personal journey to life, combining visual art with Indigenous narrative to connect audiences with the deeper layers of cultural storytelling.
- Song Workshop Led by Professor Kim Scott: Celebrated Indigenous author and John Curtin Distinguished Professor Kim Scott a two-time winner of the Miles Franklin Literary Award, led a song workshop exploring music as a medium for storytelling. Working alongside Dockers legend Jeff Farmer, Professor Scott presented songs in Noongar languages, preserving and amplifying community stories.
Attendees had the chance to immerse themselves in these projects through interactive displays and VR headsets, with a short film by project co-ordinator Dr Michelle Johnston capturing the creation and vision behind each piece.
Through Yoowarl Koorl, Curtin University and the Fremantle Football Club reaffirm their commitment to Indigenous storytelling, cultural integrity, and the journey of reconciliAction—building a future where Indigenous stories are celebrated, shared, and preserved through innovative and collaborative partnerships.
