The Bass Strait Maritime Centre (BSMC) is proud to announce the launch of Our First Mariners – Sea Country People, a landmark exhibition dedicated to the maritime histories of Tasmania’s Aboriginal community. This permanent exhibition, a first in the Museum’s 51-year history, highlights the profound connection between Tasmania’s First Nations people and the surrounding waterways, offering visitors an immersive look
into their rich seafaring traditions.
Our First Mariners is not only a celebration of Tasmanian Aboriginal culture, but also serves as an educational platform where visitors can deepen their understanding of the palawa and pakana peoples’ enduring relationship with Tasmania’s marine environment. Central to the exhibition is a remarkable paperbark ningher (canoe) handcrafted by Uncle Rex Greeno, a master canoe maker and respected Tasmanian Aboriginal Elder. This beautiful piece embodies generations of boat-building knowledge, showcasing the innovation and expertise of Tasmania’s earliest maritime communities.
Accompanying the canoe, are two traditional shell necklaces by the esteemed Aunty Lola Greeno, a Tasmanian cultural practitioner known for preserving Aboriginal artistry through traditional techniques. Her work is an homage to the island’s centuries-old craft heritage and deep cultural significance.
Visitors are also invited to explore a personal narrative of Aboriginal maritime life through a short film featuring Dave mangenner Gough, an Aboriginal Elder who recounts his family’s connection with the Mersey River and Bass Strait. His moving account offers a unique perspective on how Sea Country continues to shape the lives and culture of Devonport’s First Nations community.
The exhibition’s bespoke design is complemented by handcrafted furniture from renowned Tasmanian timber artisan Toby Muir-Wilson, and interpretive displays created by award-winning designer Emma Duncan, ensuring a tactile and visually engaging experience for all.
Joanna Gair, Museum Coordinator at BSMC, spearheaded this project since taking on her role in 2022. “It’s an honour to present Our First Mariners to the community,” Gair shared.
“This exhibition is a tribute to the deep and enduring bond between the Tasmanian Aboriginal community and the maritime environment. We are proud to exhibit these pieces, they form an essential part of our shared history and identity.”
This significant exhibition was made possible through the generous support of the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Maritime Museum in Sydney, Devonport City Council, and TasPorts. Their contributions have brought this vital chapter of Tasmania’s history to life, ensuring it is preserved for future generations.
The official public launch of Our First Mariners – Sea Country People will take place on Thursday, September 12th, 2024, and will be open for public viewing on Friday 13th September.
Opening Hours: BSMC is open 7 days a week, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Address: 6 Gloucester Avenue, Devonport
