Published on Friday, 18 September 2026 at 9:34:51 AM
Young people aged 12 to 18 years are invited to participate in a free Indigenous youth program at John Tonkin Reserve on Wednesday 7 October from 10am.
Facilitated by Milliyaan Aboriginal Services, Kaya Koorda Kaartdijin Boodja (Welcome friends, learning on Country), is a three-hour, drop-in cultural engagement session designed to encourage connection, pride and understanding through hands-on cultural activities.
Town of East Fremantle Mayor Tony Natale said the event offered a unique opportunity to engage with, and celebrate Aboriginal culture, during the school holidays.
“This is a chance for young people to learn, create and connect through culture in a welcoming and inclusive environment,” he said.
"By sharing stories, traditions and experiences, we can build greater understanding and respect, while strengthening connections across our community."
Mayor Natale said the Town was proud to support youth events through its community events program.
“I encourage anyone looking for something fun and free to do these school holidays to join us at John Tonkin Reserve.
“Young people can drop-in anytime over the three hours, and engage with the activities at their own pace.”
About Kaya Koorda Kaartdijin Boodja
The event will include five interactive activity stations:
- Kaya and Country welcome space - an entry point for participants to learn about Noongar Country, place and connection.
- Nyoongar art and symbols station - introduction to Nyoongar symbols and their meanings. Attendees can engage in creative art-making using small canvases or boards while focusing on personal storytelling, identity and movement.
- Hands-on cultural activity station - participants can decorate tapping sticks or message sticks.
- Yarn and chill space - Milliyaan Aboriginal Services will facilitate casual yarning where attendees can listen or participate.
- Rhythm and language pop-up sessions - short 10-to-15 minute sessions using tapping stick rhythms and call-and-response to introduce young people to music and rhythm as an important part of Noongar cultural expression.
Additional information
This FREE community event is part of the Town of East Fremantle 2026/27 community events program, which delivers inclusive opportunities that celebrate culture, learning and community connection.
See the full calendar of events for this financial year.
Registrations are not required. Attendees are encouraged to drop-in between 10am and 1pm.
The Town of East Fremantle is committed to pursuing sincere reconciliation with our Town's first people, including through events.
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