Warra Warra Wai

Join authors Darren Rix and Craig Cormick for an illustrated discussion on Warra Warra Wai. The book explores the experiences of those who watched the Endeavour from the shore — how they understood the arrival of the strangers, and the often brutal and lasting impact these encounters had on their people and lands. 

Warra Warra Wai, comes from the words called out to Cook’s crew as they attempted to land in Botany Bay in Sydney. It has long been interpreted as “Go away” but is perhaps more accurately translated as “You are all dead spirits”.

Rix, a Gunditjmara-GunaiKurnai man, and Cormick travelled along the east coast, visiting places renamed by Cook, and listening to stories passed down through generations. With permission, these stories have been woven together with European accounts and placed in their deeper context. The places Cook renamed already had names, and the places he ‘discovered’ already had stories and histories, stretching back before time.

Suitable for ages 15 and up.  

Free event. Bookings essential.