Backyard Truth-Telling Series returns this month

The City of Fremantle and Centre for Stories are inviting the community to attend the 2026 Backyard Truth-Telling Series, returning to Walyalup/Fremantle this month.

Audience registration is now open for the three events, held across three Saturdays in May in three unique backyards.

Attendees will hear from emerging and established Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian storytellers who will share their lived experiences. Their stories will speak to the tough truths of our often untold past and celebrate the resilience and self-determination of our First Nation communities.

Twelve storytellers were selected from dozens of applicants. They have been mentored at workshops facilitated by Centre for Stories with Ron Bradfield Jnr, a Bardi and Jawi saltwater artist and storyteller. Ron has supported them to share their stories in ways that feel safe and empowering.

The first event of the series will begin with a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country by Dr Richard Walley.

Free registration. Bookings essential. Strictly limited seating. Waitlist available.

Each event runs from 4.30pm to 7.30pm and will feature Auslan interpretation.

These are alcohol-free events. Fire, feed and yarn will follow the stories. Light refreshments are provided. BYO picnics are welcome.

It is a safe and inclusive community event. Racism will not be tolerated.

Due to the sensitive nature of topics discussed, on-site support and access to further services will be available.

Venues
Samson House on Ellen Street, Fremantle was built in 1888 for Michael Samson, whose father was among the first Swan River colonists and whose son Sir Frederick Samson is recognised as Fremantle’s longest-serving Mayor. It is now managed by the National Trust of Australia (WA) which is partnering with the City to deliver this important community event.

The Walyalup Aboriginal Cultural Centre is in one of the old pilot cottages on Captains Lane, Arthur Head overlooking Manjaree/Bathers Beach. It’s been showcasing local Aboriginal art, culture and history through exhibitions, workshops, film screenings, music and tours for more than a decade.

Randwick Stables is one of the original horse racing stables that were (along with market gardens) characteristic of the Hamilton Hill area in the early 1900s. It is still an active community stable, with horses, goats, sheep and pigs in residence.

Centre for Stories Project Manager for First Stories, Luisa Mitchell, said audience members can expect to be moved and inspired by the participants.

“Over three weeks, Centre for Stories has been supporting a group of First Nations and non-Indigenous friends to craft personal stories of Walyalup/Fremantle, and how they are each reckoning with the legacies of colonial history.

“I am so excited for these brave community members to have an opportunity to share their unique stories in intimate outdoor settings around Walyalup, and for the wider community to embrace deep listening as an essential step toward reconciliation.

“Join us for rich local stories, music and conversation that will move, heal and inspire you,” Ms Mitchell said.

Fremantle Mayor Ben Lawver said it’s a chance to strengthen the community through shared understanding.

“Backyard Truth-Telling is an opportunity to connect, learn, and listen deeply.”

The City’s first Backyard Truth-Telling Series was held in 2024.

The Backyard Truth-Telling Series is part of the City of Fremantle’s dedicated Truth-Telling Program and is delivered in partnership with Centre for Stories’ First Stories Program.