Located along the waterfront at Elizabeth Quay, the First Contact sculpture by Noongar artist Laurel Nannup tells a story from the early encounters between Noongar people and European ships arriving on the Swan River. The 5-metre-tall aluminium sculpture is shaped like a bird with outstretched wings, representing how the Noongar people believed the distant sailing ships looked like giant birds carrying the spirits of their ancestors. Set beside the water, the artwork is a meaningful cultural stop along the path and an important reminder of the area’s deeper history.

Puffin

October 30, 2024

Cycling

5 metre high cast aluminium artwork by Indigenous artist Laurel Nannup. The work depicts the arrival of European settlers in Perth. When the European boats arrived, the indigenous Noongar people believed that these ships were their earlier ancestors returning from the sea.

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Puffin

October 30, 2024

Hiking

A 5-meter-high artwork made of cast aluminum by the Indigenous artist Laurel Nannup. The work depicts the arrival of European settlers in Perth. When the European boats arrived, the local Noongar people believed these ships were their ancestors returning from the sea.

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Elevation 0 m

Weather

Thursday 12 March

26°C

17°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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Location: Western Australia, Australia

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First Contact Sculpture by Laurel Nannup

1. Perth Water Circuit from Melaleuca Grove

2. Boorloo Bridge – Elizabeth Quay Bridge loop from City of Perth

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