We are looking forward to welcoming Travis Lovett to Canberra to deliver our 2026 David Hunter Memorial Lecture (DHML) on the theme: ‘Truth and the Nation We All Share’, on Thursday 22 October.
Also read on for a range of other interesting events around First Nations culture and experience in October.
DHML 2026: Truth and the Nation We All Share
WHEN: Thursday 22 October 2026 – 5.15 for 6.00 pm start – refreshments from 5.15 pm in the hall, lecture to commence at 6.00pm in the Church.
WHERE: Canberra Baptist Church, 11 Currie Crescent, Kingston, ACT (** note different venue this year **) and broadcast nationally on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/y_Dms-Cl-2s.
SPEAKER: Travis Lovett, Executive Director of the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Truth Telling and Dialogue.
Travis Lovett is a proud Kerrupmara Gunditjmara, Boandik man and Traditional Owner who served as Deputy Chair and Commissioner of the Yoorrook Justice Commission, Australia’s first formal truth-telling inquiry. A lifelong advocate for justice and cultural preservation, Lovett has held senior leadership roles in the Victorian Public Service, including Executive Director and Acting Deputy Secretary, Department of Premier and Cabinet. His leadership has been pivotal in advancing Treaty and truth-telling, reforming Koori Courts and protecting cultural heritage across Victoria.
Lovett’s commitment to truth was powerfully embodied in his 905-kilometre National Walk for Truth, a symbolic and deeply personal journey from Victorian Parliament in Naarm to Parliament House in Canberra on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country. This landmark walk called on the Federal Government to commit to a national truth-telling process, developed in genuine partnership with First Nations Peoples. Upon reaching Canberra, Lovett carried a message from many Nations, hands and hearts to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the doors of Parliament. His work with the Yoorrook Justice Commission helped deliver a landmark report with over 100 recommendations for systemic reform, leading to a historic apology from the Victorian Government.
For more information, see: https://antaract.org.au/dhml-2026-truth-and-the-nation-we-all-share/
ANTaR ACT Organising Group
The next meeting of the ANTaR ACT organising group will be at 6pm on Monday 12 October, 6pm, in person at the Friends Meeting House, corner of Bent and Condamine Streets, Turner. If you would like to join us and be involved in our ongoing advocacy and actions, please contact us info@antaract.org.au.
Events Coming Up
Jessica Mauboy: The Story of Me
Saturday 3 October, 7.30pm, Canberra Theatre
Join Jessica Mauboy for a deeply personal and unforgettable evening in The Story of Me: A Musical Journey Through My Career. Through music and candid storytelling, Jessica reflects on her extraordinary evolution from a young Darwin girl to one of Australia’s most celebrated artists. For the first time, she opens up about the defining moments of her career, the highs, the setbacks, and the resilience it took to keep moving forward. For one night only, this intimate performance offers a rare glimpse into Jessica Mauboy as an artist, entrepreneur, and proud Indigenous woman.
For more information and bookings: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/jessica-mauboy-2026/.
The Russell Taylor Oration 2026 – Guest Speaker: Julie-Ann Guivarra
Thursday 8 October, 12noon – 1.30pm, national livestream
Drawing on a distinguished career spanning diplomacy, international relations, public policy and Indigenous affairs, National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) CEO Julie-Ann Guivarra brings a unique perspective shaped by experience across communities, government and the international stage. Her address will be followed by a live Q&A.
For more information and registration: https://aiatsis.gov.au/whats-new/events/russell-taylor-oration-2026.
Yerrabi Yurwang & The World’s Biggest Sit In
Monday 12 October, 9.15am-11am, Yarramundi Cultural Centre, 245 Lady Denman Drive, Acton
Join Yerrabi Yurwang Child & Family Aboriginal Corporation as they take part in The World’s Biggest Sit In! The World’s Biggest Sit In is an accessible 30-minute seated workout designed to build cardio fitness, strength and balance, while encouraging people to think differently about how they move.
Yerrabi will be joining people across Australia as part of the world record attempt for the largest seated workout ever held. After the Sit In, stick around for a relaxed morning tea and time with community.
For more information and registration: https://events.humanitix.com/the-worlds-biggest-sit-in.
David Gulpilil Double Feature: Satellite Boy and The Last Wave
Friday 16 October, 6pm and 8pm, Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton
Celebrate David Gulpilil in two stories shaped by land and spirit. Bookings available for either movie alone or a double feature pass to see both movies.
- Satellite Boy (2012): Pete (Cameron Wallaby), a young Aboriginal boy, lives with his grandfather Jagamarra (David Gulpilil) in an abandoned drive-in cinema situated in the stunning Kimberley region of Western Australia. When developers threaten their home, Pete embarks on a journey across the outback with his friend Kalmain. He is determined to find a way to save the place that anchors his family’s enduring connection to Country.
- The Last Wave (1977): Sydney solicitor David Burton (Richard Chamberlain) is unexpectedly assigned to defend a group of Aboriginal men accused of murder. As he investigates the case, a series of disturbing dreams, unexplained weather events and encounters with Aboriginal cultural traditions begin to unsettle his understanding of reality. Drawn into a world of prophecy and hidden knowledge, Burton discovers a mysterious connection between himself and forces he cannot explain.
For more information and bookings: https://www.nfsa.gov.au/whats-on/double-feature-satellite-boy-the-last-wave-4719.
Kultural Dreaming Capital Runway
Saturday 17 October, 6-11pm, National Museum of Australia
For one unforgettable evening, the iconic National Museum of Australia will be transformed into a spectacular celebration of First Nations culture, fashion and creative excellence. First Nations Capital Runway will present an exceptional selection of collections from local and national First Nations designers — artists and visionaries whose work carries stories of Country, identity, strength, healing and connection. Guests will be welcomed with drinks and canapés on arrival, followed by an inspiring evening of runway fashion, cultural performances, contemporary dance and live music.
For more information and bookings (cost applies): https://events.humanitix.com/kultural_dreaming_capital_runway
Canberra Writers Festival
The Canberra Writers Festival celebrates books, ideas and storytelling, bringing writers and thinkers together with audiences from Canberra and beyond. The 2026 Festival will be held from 15 to 18 October. Below are some of the events featuring First Nations writers and storytellers.
For more information about the festival: https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/
The Legend of Reg Saunders
Saturday 17 October, 11.45am, National Archives of Australia
Hear about the remarkable life of Captain Reg Saunders, Australia’s first Indigenous commissioned officer, from his nephew James Saunders and eldest daughter Aunty Glenda Humes. In 1940, a 19-year-old Reg Saunders walked into an enlistment office in Victoria. It was the beginning of an extraordinary journey that took Reg across three continents and two wars – WW2 and Korea. They will join Craig Cormick in a conversation that not only spans Reg’s military career but also speaks of his family and people – the Gunditjmara of Western Victoria – and the power of his legacy.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/the-legend-of-reg-saunders/
Deadly Science, Deadly Storytelling
Saturday 17 October, 1.30pm, Icon Water Festival Lawn
First Nations children’s authors play a vital role in creating books that reflect and celebrate Indigenous cultures, families and communities. This literature serves to nurture First Nations children’s cultural identities and pride and shares this with wider audiences as well. Join Corey Tutt and Marly Wells in conversation with fellow First Nations author Lisa Fuller as they explore the importance of sharing the resilience and enduring strength of First Nations cultures through fabulous stories and histories that simply deserve to be told and celebrated with readers everywhere! In partnership with AIATSIS. Recommended ages: 12+.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/deadly-science-deadly-storytelling/
Earth, Nature, Country
Saturday 17 October, 2.30pm, Smith Alternative
Poetry speaks to us like no other written form. This is an afternoon of words – a chance to hear local poets ripple and flow alongside artists from interstate. Expect hymns to the elements, discordant notes of rhythms askew, laments for all we’ve lost and fierce expression of love for nature. Local First Nations poets Jennifer Kemarre Martiniello and Paul Collis join Lizz Murphy and Andrew Geoffrey Kwabena Moss and, from interstate, Johanna Bell and Yirga Gelaw Woldeyes, with host Martin Dolan. In partnership with That Poetry Thing at Smith’s Alternative.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/earth-nature-country/
Indigenous Futurisms
Sunday 18 October, 1.30pm, Liangis Theatre, National Portrait Gallery
First Nations speculative fiction takes us to other realms and distant planets while tackling home truths. This panel will talk celebrating diverse worldviews, surviving and thriving beyond apocalypse, reframing timelines (and time) and much more. An event for those that revel in the art of world building across science fiction, fantasy and mystery. Join First Nations panellists John Morrissey, Jacob K Gallagher and Lisa Fuller as they fly us to amazing places and ask big questions about the future. In partnership with AIATSIS.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/indigenous-futurisms/
Writing the Bush, Writing the Ocean
Sunday 18 October, 1.30pm, Function Room, National Archives of Australia
Nature can reveal character. It can be the life force behind tender and unflinching writing about relationships with each other and ourselves. Join First Nations author Lulu Houdini with Inga Simpson and Ilka Tampke as they surround us with words of nature and help us see our world and place within it. Let’s find the through lines, rivers that remember and the bush that hums with life to restore both land and ourselves.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/writing-the-bush-writing-the-ocean/
The First Inventors
Sunday 18 October, 11.45am, Activity Room, National Archives of Australia
Join us for an adventure into deep history to discover how Indigenous knowledge shaped the Australian continent. We’ll journey through astronomy, firestick farming, international trade and open-sea navigation. Our expert panel of Lynette Russell, Billy Griffiths, Sean Ulm and Craig Cormick will distill what they’ve learnt by honouring old ways of knowing and working together on cutting-edge collaborative research. In partnership with AIATSIS.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/the-first-inventors/
Book Launch: Before It Was Called Science
Sunday 18 October, 10.00am, Level 4, National Library of Australia
Did you know that the First Scientists invented sustainable ways of carrying food and water, unlike the single-use plastics and packaging we see today? Or that the First Scientists could remove salt from seawater? Bestselling author Corey Tutt is back to share more incredible stories of how Australia’s First Peoples practised science long before it carried that name. Join Corey in conversation with Questacon’s Director Jo White and Mind in Residence Hans Bachelor, for the release of his new book Before It Was Called Science, which follows his groundbreaking children’s book The First Scientists. Recommended ages: 7-12
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/book-launch-before-it-was-called-science/
The Elders
Sunday 18 October, 10.00am, Liangis Theatre, National Portrait Gallery
Dan Bourchier has been on a journey to listen and learn from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders from across Australia. Join Dan Bourchier, Ian Hamm and Dana Morse as they reflect and honour Elders’ stories. This will be a special conversation of truth-telling and celebration of First Nations’ knowledge and leadership.
https://canberrawritersfestival.com.au/program/the-elders/
ACT NAIDOC Family Day
Saturday 24 October, 10.30am-4pm, Boomanulla Oval, 169 Goyder St, Narrabundah
All day entertainment, barista coffee, hot food, amusement rides, free face painting, games and kids activities, reptile display, petting zoo, Blak markets and community services info.
For more information and updates: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DLQaxSzZ2/
Sharing Stories: Anengkerr-penh/From the Dreaming tour
Tuesday 27 October, 11am and 1pm, Gallery of First Australians, National Museum of Australia
Join a tour of the Anengkerr-penh/From the Dreaming exhibition featuring the monumental painting Kerrinyarra by Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri/Peltharr, Anmatyerr man, ceremonial leader and one of Australia’s most significant artists. You’ll also learn about contemporary Anmatyerr efforts to reconnect with and preserve cultural knowledge for future generations.
For bookings (free, bookings essential): https://my.nma.gov.au/overview/52423.
On Country tour: Stirling Park
Saturday 21 November, 10am-12noon, Stirling Park
Through his company Thunderstone, Ngunawal Traditional Custodian Tyronne Bell runs workshops so Canberrans can learn about Ngunawal language and country. The list of upcoming public workshops and tours is available at: www.thunderstone.net.au/book-online.
Stirling Park is a highly valued conservation site in Yarralumla. The area has endangered plant species, an abundance of native animals, many culturally significant Aboriginal sites and special links to early Canberra history.
Highlights: Aboriginal interpretation of the landscape, bush foods, artefacts and their traditional uses and scarred tree.
For more information and bookings: https://www.thunderstone.net.au/service-page/stirling-park-tour-21-nov-10am-12pm
Exhibitions
Wangka Wakaṉutja: The Story of the Papunya Literature Production Centre
To Sunday 11 October, Level 1, Exhibition Gallery, National Library of Australia
Papunya is a remote Aboriginal community in the Western Desert region of the Northern Territory, and the birthplace of the internationally known Western Desert art movement. Between 1979 and 1990, the Papunya Literature Production Centre (PLPC) produced hundreds of Pintupi-Luritja bilingual books guided by the community’s Elders, among them pioneers of the Western Desert Art movement. The illustrated books were produced as literacy tools for local schoolchildren and tell stories of first contact, Dreamings, community life, plants, animals and more. Some are funny and wildly creative. Others are moving, dramatic and extraordinary.
‘Wangka Wakaṉutja’ is Pintupi-Luritja for ‘the story has been told’.
For more information, see: www.library.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/wangka-wakanutja.
Anengkerr-penh/From the Dreaming
Gallery of First Australians, National Museum of Australia
Anengkerr-penh/From the Dreaming explores the work and legacy of Clifford Possum Tjapaltjarri/Peltharr, an Anmatyerr man, ceremonial leader and one of Australia’s most significant artists.
For more information, see: www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/anengkerr-penh-from-the-dreaming.
ANTaR ACT acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which Canberra is situated, the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region. We also acknowledge other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who may visit this area.