Bindjareb Noongar people hear long-awaited apology, 191 years after Pinjarra massacre

A state governor has apologised for his predecessor's role in a massacre almost 200 years ago, saying that acknowledging the truth is the right thing to do.

James Stirling led 25 men in 1834 who fired at Bindjareb Noongar people continuously for an hour. HANDOUT/ WA Government House

Almost two centuries after the Pinjarra massacre, descendants of the Bindjareb Noongar people have received a long-awaited apology from the Governor of Western Australia.

On Bindjareb Noongar Country, Governor Chris Dawson formally apologised for the actions of the colony’s first governor, James Stirling, who led a violent attack against Noongar men, women and children in 1834.

Traditional Owner Karrie-Anne Kearing said the apology was deeply meaningful for the community and the families who have carried the story for generations.

“Saying sorry is never easy - but it’s growth, and any growth has some discomfort and pain.

"It shows how long it’s taken for someone in your position to recognise the truth of what happened here and the impact it’s had on all Aboriginal people.”

She said the moment also honoured those who fought to have the truth acknowledged.

“This is all about the victims, but I also need to acknowledge those who championed this cause - like Pop Oscar Little, my father Theo Kearing, and my Aunty Leslie Morrison.

"Their work was not in vain.”

During the ceremony, the community observed a minute’s silence, marked by the sound of clapping sticks - symbolising the moment the gunfire ceased on October 28, 1834.

“Every year on this date, we gather here to remember the massacre in 1834. And this year, I am very honoured to welcome the Governor,” Ms Kearing said.

Governor Dawson told the gathering he came “on foot, unarmed, to walk softly” on the sacred site.

“I come here with my heart and my conscience to say sorry for the dreadful wrongs perpetrated by the first Governor of Western Australia against the Bindjareb Noongar people.”

He described the apology as an act of truth-telling and a step toward healing and trust.

Western Australia Governor Chris Dawson with Bindjareb Noongar Traditional Owner Karrie-Anne Kearing following the Governor’s apology on Bindjareb Country.

To mark the occasion, the Governor presented the community with a sapling from an olive tree planted at Government House in 1835 by Stirling.

In return, Traditional Owners gifted a Jarrah tree to be planted at Government House - a gesture symbolising reconciliation and renewal.

“This is not the end - it’s the start of a new chapter of working together to create a memorial for our people,” Ms Kearing said.