Commemorative event for Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner

The Bass Coast Reconciliation Network invites the community to join them in commemorating the lives of Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner, two Tasmanian Aboriginal men who were publicly hanged in Melbourne in 1842. 

The men were convicted for the murder of two whale-hunters in the Western Port area and on January 20, 1842, became the first people hanged in Melbourne. 

At the time they were labelled ‘blood thirsty outlaws’ but are now recognised as freedom fighters resisting colonial occupation and injustices.

The pair were captured at or near Harmers Haven in Cape Paterson, which is why we are committed to remember them at an annual ceremony in the region.

"Join us at 9.45am for a 10am start at Wonthaggi’s Wishart Reserve on Friday January 20 to honour the two men and acknowledge the injustice dealt to them and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during colonisation," said Mary Mutsaers, Bass Coast/South Gippsland Reconciliation Group.

“The Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group initiated the commemoration of Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner some years ago to recognise our history and bring people together, moving forward with greater understanding of our shared humanity, and committing to working collaboratively for equality and social justice.”

There will be a smoking ceremony followed by guest speakers and a gathering together to remember.  Everyone is welcome to attend. 

To learn more about Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner and their significant role in our history, visit www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-melbourne/melbourne-profile/aboriginal-culture/Pages/tunnerminnerwait-and-maulboyheener.aspx

To learn more about the BCRN, visit: www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/reconciliation