A free 20-minute animated water show rooted in Whadjuk Noongar tradition will play continuously at Elizabeth Quay Inlet this weekend. Delivered in partnership with the Western Australian Government through Tourism WA, The Story of Kooyar uses a towering water screen projected onto the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River) to bring illustrated animation, atmospheric effects and an original soundscape to the Perth waterfront.
A frog, a song, and the changing seasons
At the heart of the show is Kooyar, a small frog whose sacred song calls the life-giving rains. Guided by the Noongar six seasons, the narrative follows Kooyar across Noongar Boodja as black cockatoos signal seasonal change, waterways begin to flow, and wildflowers bloom. As a result, this reveals the deep connections between people, animals and Country.
The story belongs to Whadjuk Noongar storyteller and cultural consultant Rose Walley. She carries it from her late mother, respected Whadjuk Elder Theresa Walley. “A little frog plays an important role in the seasons. It has the biggest responsibility, yet it’s the smallest of the animals,” Ms Walley said. “We hope everyone can believe that no matter how small you may seem, you still have a voice.”
Art, puppetry and dance alongside the water screen
Ms Walley’s niece, acclaimed Whadjuk Noongar artist Biara Martin, created the illustrations projected across the water. Moreover, these drawings have been animated to ripple and soar across the river’s surface. Ms Martin highlighted a moment close to her heart. “One of my favourite moments is when the bindi bindi (butterflies) come out — hundreds of butterflies flying around with the sound of wings fluttering.”
Beyond the water screen, roving Karak (red-tailed black cockatoo) puppets will move through the crowd, while live performances by Indigenous dance group Corroboree For Life will share First Nations culture through dance and music throughout each evening.
Experience details
The Story of Kooyar runs this weekend, 25–28 September 2026, from 7–10 pm at Elizabeth Quay Inlet with free entry. The show will continue in wet weather — visitors are encouraged to dress for the conditions. An accessible viewing space will be available, and Auslan interpretation will be provided on Sunday 27 September from 7–9 pm.
Organisers recommend arriving by bus, train or ferry, all of which serve Elizabeth Quay directly. Children must be accompanied at all times.
“We need to value our culture and acknowledge that we are on ancient Country,” Ms Walley said. “Everything is important — the trees, the rivers, the people and the animals. It’s all connected, all entwined.”
