Yarning circle opens on Larrakia Country at RAAF Base Darwin

Joseph Guenzler Published October 13, 2025 at 12.45pm (AWST)

culture

Administrator of the Northern Territory Professor Hugh Heggie attends a smoking ceremony at RAAF Base Darwin’s Gudlugwa Cultural Space. (Image: LAC Ryan Howell)

RAAF Base Darwin has opened its first yarning circle on Larrakia Country, creating a space for people to gather, share stories and connect.

The Gudlugwa Cultural Space builds on the relationship between the base and the Larrakia people, symbolising a continued commitment to reconciliation and inclusion.

The space opened recently with a traditional smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country, attended by the Administrator of the Northern Territory, Professor Hugh Heggie, in his role as Honourable Air Commodore of 13 Squadron, alongside Larrakia people, aviators and guests.

Indigenous Liaison Officer at RAAF Base Darwin, Leading Aircraftman Willhelm Lauenstein, said the new space creates a cultural bridge between Defence and the Larrakia community.

"This space reflects the Larrakia people's traditions of gathering on Country to yarn, teach, listen and connect," he said.

"It acknowledges that the base sits on Larrakia land and provides a respectful space for members to engage with culture in a meaningful way.

"The Gudlugwa Cultural Space provides RAAF Base Darwin [with] a place to host events or ceremonies, where the Larrakia people's representation and presence is essential."

Indigenous Liaison Officer, Leading Aircraftman Willhelm Lauenstein, speaks to Australian Defence Force members and guests at the opening of the RAAF Base Darwin Cultural Space. (Image: LAC Ryan Howell)

The yarning circle is built entirely with materials and plants native to the Northern Territory.

It is surrounded by red bush apple and green plum trees, with river sand to support growth during the wet season.

Seven totem poles represent sunrise, daytime, sunset, sky, land, dry season and wet season.

Senior ADF Officer and Commanding Officer of 13 Squadron, Wing Commander Lauren Guest, said the space will strengthen relationships and shared understanding.

"In a modern Air Force where aviators are encouraged to live off base, that sense of community is challenged," Wing Commander Guest said.

"The Gudlugwa Cultural Space is an invitation to enrich that sense of community we all benefit from, and will help us all grow together.

"This is a vital step in the journey of going from colleagues to community."

*Australian Defence Force members and guests participate in a smoking ceremony during the opening of the RAAF Base Darwin Cultural Space. (Image: Ryan Howell)*

Seating and tables were made from a tree that fell on base during a wet-season storm and a boab tree planted nearby represents 13 Squadron's West Australian base at RAAF Base Curtin.

Leading Aircraftman Lauenstein said the project was a collaborative effort supported by Larrakia Nation, Bundirrik Cultural Services, Wurrba, IBE Contracting, Ventia, SEG, Laing O'Rourke, Halkitis Brothers, AKJ Services and the aviators of RAAF Base Darwin.

The Gudlugwa Cultural Space will serve as an important place for people to connect, reflect and deepen their understanding of Darwin's enduring connection to Country.