Starry, starry night: Indigenous stargazing on Rottnest Island

As the sun sets on Thomson Bay, cast your eyes to the heavens for an evening of indigenous stargazing and dreamtime storytelling on Rottnest Island tomorrow tonight. 'Djindoon Djenung at Wadjemup' or 'look to the stars', is the theme of a new series of free evening events, starting May 14 and continuing into July.

Image credit: RIA

Award-winning Nyoongar Guide, Walter McGuire from Go Cultural Tours, shares his knowledge of Aboriginal astronomy and dreamtime stories of the moon and the stars from an indigenous perspective. The evening starts at 5.15pm with a Welcome to Country and song to the 'kylie' (singing boomerangs), followed by a sand or water ceremony on the shores of Thomson Bay before the storytelling and stargazing begins. A smoking ceremony, said to help bring healing and connection to country, is a fitting close to the evening. Djindoon Djenung will take place on this eveing on June 11 and again on July 2. The event coincide with Reconciliation Week and will feature a Wagyl Rainbow Serpent dance. The events are part of a growing program of cultural activations on the island, encouraging greater focus on Wadjemup's indigenous heritage. The events are free to attend, however participants should book tickets in advance as capacity is limited and will need to book their own ferry fare. Daytrippers are encouraged to make the most of a day on the island by booking an early ferry with Rottnest Fast Ferries, Sea Link or Rottnest Express. The events are supported by a late return ferry from Rottnest Island to Fremantle at 7.15pm on Rottnest Express. Please check the latest Covid-19 advice before you leave.

See more indigenous cultural events to explore in WA