The first room you enter is "Warrane"– The name given to Sydney Cove by the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. The Gadigal were the custodians of much of the southern shore of what we now call Sydney Harbour; and to them the northern edge of The Rocks was Tar-ra, while the western shore of Warrane was Tallawoladah.

Set in the window on the western side of this exhibition space is a bark Nowey Canoe. The Nowey Canoe, was an essential tool for the harbour dwelling Peoples. This unassuming piece of bark was more than just a means of transport —it was a symbol of survival, and connection.

The Gadigal people, like other Eora clans, lived intimately with their environment, understanding its gifts and challenges. The Nowey is a perfect example of that relationship.

Picture a cool morning by the shores of Sydney Harbour. Smoke rises from small fires where Gadigal women prepare their fishing tools. Bark has been stripped from the large Red Gum tree carefully, with gratitude and respect.

Elders share stories of their ancestors’ first journeys in Nowey canoes—, ventured out to fish for mullet, bream or snapper or met other clans during ceremonies.