Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware that this exhibition contains the names, voices and images of people who have passed away.
Ngurruwarra/Derndernyin* is a powerful collaborative exhibition created by ten Kaiadilt, Lardil and Gangalidda artists, honouring the stone fish traps of the Wellesley Islands. At its centre is a monumental 20‑metre‑long painting that celebrates culture, story and identity across the seas, lands and skies of the Traditional Owner communities of the region.
For thousands of years, saltwater peoples of the Wellesley Islands have carefully managed their waters, sustaining healthy seas while being sustained by them. The Ngurruwarra/Derndernyin are born from generations of ocean observation, shared knowledge, and continuous construction and care of stone fish traps, grounded in deep respect for Country and Culture.
Each artist painted multiple sections of the canvas, working together to ensure the story flows seamlessly across the interconnected surface. The exhibition is accompanied by a three‑screen audiovisual artwork by Martin Potter, which expands on these themes and a 9-metre-long pencil drawing titled Dulka Warngiida, being displayed for the first time. A selection of objects from the Australian Museum Wellesley Islands collection, chosen in consultation with Community and directly connected to fishing practices and stone fish traps, will also be on display.
*Ngurruwarra (stone fish traps) - Kaiadilt language
Derndernyin (stone fish traps) - Lardil language
Visit Ngurruwarra/Derndernyin in the First Nations Gallery.
Event Details:
Dates: From 3rd June 2026
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Australian Museum