The Story of Kooyar
25 - 28 September
Experience the Derbarl Yerrigan after dark as light, water and sound bring ancient stories to life.
Follow the song of the Kooyar (frog) to Elizabeth Quay this September, where the Derbarl Yerrigan transforms into a stage for ancient stories of nature, renewal and connection to Country.
From 25–28 September, experience Elizabeth Quay after dark with The Story of Kooyar – an immersive light and water show that follows the journey of Kooyar through the Noongar six seasons. Guided by his sacred song, Kooyar helps restore and heal Boordja (Country), sharing a story of the connection between people, place and nature.
Projected onto a water screen emerging from the Swan River, the free experience - delivered in partnership with Tourism WA - unfolds as a looping spectacle of light, water and sound. Watch as black cockatoos awaken the wet seasons with the beat of their wings, vibrant new growth bursts from the earth, flames flicker across sun-scorched landscapes and birdsong fills the air.
Visitors are invited to take a seat along the waterfront, beneath the night sky, and journey with Kooyar through a 20 minute looping show.
Beyond the immersive water show, visitors will encounter roving Karak (red-tailed black cockatoo) puppets as they weave through the space, delighting audiences with playful interactions. Blending contemporary puppetry with public art, the captivating performances bring visual storytelling to life for both the young and young at heart.
Live performances from Indigenous dance group Corroboree For Life will also feature throughout the evening, sharing First Nations culture and storytelling through dance, music and traditional costume. Performed by young mob, the performances provide an opportunity to connect with ancient stories and cultural traditions.
The Story of Kooyar is brought to life by cultural advisor and storyteller Rose Walley and distinguished Whadjuk Noongar artist Biara Martin, who is renowned for her artistic style that blends traditional Aboriginal dreaming narratives with contemporary landscapes to create engaging visual works.
Event Details
Event details
When
25 - 28 September, 7pm - 10pm
Location
Elizabeth Quay inlet
Cost
The Story of Kooyar is a free, all-ages event
Getting there
Elizabeth Quay is easily accessible by public transport, with trains, buses and the Transperth ferry all stopping within or adjacent to the precinct.
Weather information
The Story of Kooyar is an all-weather event, with changing conditions adding a unique element to the experience.
If rain is forecast, bring a rain jacket and embrace the elements - the water projections take on a different character depending on the weather, making each viewing special.
Accessibility
There will be a dedicated accessible area near the Elizabeth Quay Carousel.
Auslan interpretation
An Auslan interpreter will be available on Sunday 27 September, from 7pm - 9pm.
Sensory considerations
The experience features bright light projections, flashing lights and immersive audiovisual elements.
Visitors with sensory sensitivities should be aware that the show contains sequences of bright and flashing lights.
Auslan interpretation
About the artist
Biara Martin
Biara Martin is a Whadjuk Noongar artist from Perth, renowned for her artistic style that blends traditional Aboriginal dreaming narratives with contemporary landscapes.
Her work draws profound inspiration from the native flora and fauna of Western Australia's unique environment, as well as the rich dreamtime stories and cultural knowledge passed down through generations of her ancestors.
Biara's art serves as a powerful bridge between her heritage and modern artistic expression. Her paintings celebrate the natural beauty of the Australian landscape and animals while honoring the spiritual and cultural significance embedded within it.
Through her work, she preserves and shares Noongar stories and traditions with both local and broader audiences. Her contributions to the arts have been recognised within the community, with her work being featured during significant cultural events such as NAIDOC week.
Biara's artistic practice demonstrates the vital role contemporary Aboriginal artists play in maintaining cultural continuity.
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