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Wadjemup Wirin Bidi: Traditional Healing Balm Workshops

Join a traditional bush medicine workshop these school holidays to celebrate Noongar culture and embark on a journey of growth and reconciliation.

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  • 16 April & 23 April 2025
  • 10 am - 11:30 am
  • Free event

These interactive cultural workshops offer an opportunity to connect with the heritage of Wadjemup while learning how to make your own bush medicine.

Inspired by the Wadjemup Wirin Bidi Exhibition (Spiritual Journey), you’ll discover the story of the Wonnil, the Peppermint Tree native to the south west of Western Australia. Used in smoking ceremonies and as a remedy for ailments, including respiratory issues and skin conditions, the Wonnil holds significant importance in Noongar culture.

The team from Baarna Healing will share cultural insights and learning opportunities through yarning and teaching about the ancient Aboriginal connection to Wadjemup. You'll then learn how to make your own Wonnil healing balm which you can take home with you.  

The workshop sessions will be held during the April school holidays on Wednesday 16 April and Wednesday 23 April, with one session each day at 10 am to 11:30 am in the Wadjemup Museum Sculpture Garden.

The workshops are free, but registration is essential due to limited capacity.

The Wadjemup Wirin Bidi Exhibition (Spiritual Journey) acknowledges the past and looks to the future.

Visit the Wadjemup Museum to explore the series of exhibits that shares the stories of the island’s Aboriginal prisoners, the families who were left behind and the work being delivered through the  Wadjemup Project.

Don’t miss the Wadjemup Wirin Bidi film in the theatrette, featuring four spiritual Noongar stories of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island.

Please note: Entry to Wadjemup Museum is by contribution. Contributions can be made online by scanning the QR code on entry.

Baarna Healing, founded in 2015 by Keesha Forrest Pananka, is dedicated to reconnecting individuals with the strength, beauty, and wisdom of their Baarna (country), through natural bush medicine balms and traditional healing practices.

Rooted in a deep passion for cultural healing and identity, Keesha’s journey of self-discovery – embracing her Yamatji Nyoongar heritage – led to the creation of a space for healing and cultural sharing.

The team at Baarna Healing believe in the power of connection. Their mission is to help individuals heal from land and culture, creating positive impacts that resonate through spirit, self, family, and community.

Baarna Healing offers ethically sourced bush balms and remedies, workshops, and traditional healing sessions, guided by Elders to ensure cultural integrity and alignment with family and community.

Where to find the Wadjemup Wirin Bidi: Traditional Healing Balm Workshops

The workshops will be held in the Wadjemup Museum Sculpture Garden, behind the Wadjemup Museum.

You will find the Wadjemup Museum in the main settlement, behind the Rottnest Bakery and across from Heritage Common, an easy walk from the main jetty in Thomson Bay.

Know before you go

Getting Here
Jump on a ferry, plane or take your own boat.
Getting Around
The best ways to get around Wadjemup / Rottnest Island.
Practical Tips
Expert advice and tips to make your visit a safe one.
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