Unfortunately this event has been cancelled.

However, we’re excited to share a wonderful alternative opportunity to engage with this powerful story and its creators:

TALK: Seeing the Invisible with Maree Clarke
Thursday 9 October, 4:30pm and Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG)
Pay What You Want (bookings essential).
Book here. 

CANCELLED: In Conversation: The Ginninderra Reed Necklace

Join us for an engaging discussion about the Ginninderra Reed Necklace and its cultural significance. This in-person event will explore the history, stories, and ongoing cultural impact of this unique piece, as well as the tradition of making river reed necklaces.

About the Ginninderra Reed Necklace

The Ginninderra Reed Necklace was created by local Aboriginal girls and gifted to Emma Minnie Palmer on her wedding in 1862. Minna, who arrived in the district as a child in the 1840s, grew up on the Palmerville estate at Old Ginninderra, forming friendships with Aboriginal girls. The necklace, consisting of 12 strands of river reed, has been passed down through generations, now in the hands of Minna’s great-great-granddaughter, Catherine Palmer.

Historically, river reed necklaces were given as a symbol of friendship and safe passage through Country. The Ginninderra Reed Necklace is a rare example of cultural exchange between First Nations peoples and colonists in the Canberra region.

Currently on loan to Canberra Museum and Gallery, the necklace is part of the ‘Seeing the Invisible’ exhibition at Canberra Museum and Gallery from 2 August – 23 November 2025.

About Maree Clarke

Maree Clarke, a renowned Yorta Yorta/Wamba Wamba/Mutti Mutti/Boonwurrung artist, has spent over three decades reviving Southeast Australian Aboriginal cultural practices. Her work, which includes possum skin cloaks and river reed adornments, has been exhibited internationally. In 2024, Maree researched the Ginninderra Reed Necklace as a Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University.

Maree Clarke’s Exhibition: “Seeing the Invisible”

Visit Maree Clarke’s exhibition, “Seeing the Invisible”, at Canberra Museum and Gallery from 2 August – 23 November 2025, where she presents supersized reed necklaces as a tribute to the original Ginninderra Reed Necklace.

Secure your tickets here.
Light refreshments, tea, and coffee will be provided.

Don’t miss this chance to meet and hear from:

• Maree Clarke, Artist & Curator
• Catherine Palmer, Descendant of Emma Minnie Palmer

This event is presented in collaboration with Canberra Museum and Gallery.