Before Alice: What was, what is, what could be

Gain insights from Dr. Marion Kickett, a Barladong Noongar elder, about life growing up in York fifty years ago and how it has changed over the decades. What is still here today.  What has come and gone or going? What could be here in the future. How do we care for country.  Where and when do we start?

Marion will also explain the six Barladong/Noongar seasons and their significance to Aboriginal people and their connection to the land. 

Join us for a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of York. Tickets are $10 per person.  You are very welcome to purchase refreshments at Botanicalia cafe within the gallery and bring them to the event.  Alternatively purchase lunch and linger in Alice's parlour to continue the discussion native and non-native flowers and the environment.

Dr Marion Kickett - Biography

Dr Marion Kickett is a Barladong Noongar woman on her father's side adn Wongutha Yamitj on her mother's side. She was born in York and has a stong sense of belonging to her country.  Marion has a Nursing and Health Sciences background and completed a PhD at the University of Western Australia in 2012.

Moving back to her hometown of York in Janary 2022  Marion now works within and for her community. She was strongly involved with the 2022 York Festival and was the Associate and Culteral Advisor for the Barladong Noongar Programmes.  

A York Festival Anthology, edited by Marion and her sister Tracey Kickett, 'My Country My Life My Words' which records voices from Barladong and beyond was launched at the York Writer's festival in March 2023.  She is also a keen gardener and loves flowers.