Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner Commemorative Event
Bass Coast Reconciliation Network – News Release
Community Invited to Commemorate Brave Frontier Resisters in new era of Treaty
The Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group warmly invites the community to gather for the annual commemoration of Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner—two Tasmanian Aboriginal men who were tragically hanged in Melbourne in 1842.
This event is a solemn act of remembrance and truth-telling, acknowledging the deep injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during colonisation. Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner were convicted in relation to the deaths of two whale hunters in the Western Port area and became the first individuals publicly executed in Melbourne. Denied the right to give evidence at their trial, they were branded as “outlaws” at the time. Today, they are rightly recognised as freedom fighters who resisted colonial occupation.
The commemoration will take place at Wishart Reserve, Wonthaggi, on Monday 20 January 2026, from 10:00am to 12:00pm.
The ceremony will include a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, guest speakers, and a collective remembrance. All community members are welcome and light refreshments will be served after the event at the Wonthaggi Town Hall.
This year’s event carries added significance as Victoria has recently passed historic Treaty legislation—a milestone in the journey toward justice and self-determination for First Peoples. The commemoration offers an opportunity to reflect on this progress while acknowledging the enduring impact of colonisation.
Mary Mutsaers, representing the Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group, said:
“From a small beginning, this moving commemoration has grown into an annual event attended by over 100 people. By gathering together, we honour Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner and reaffirm our commitment to truth-telling and justice for all. The passing of Treaty legislation in Victoria is a powerful reminder that reconciliation is not just about remembering the past—it’s about shaping a fairer future.”
Uncle Anthony Egan, Bunurong Elder, reflected:
“Tunnerminnerwait and Maulboyheenner were the first people to be hanged by the Government in the District of Port Phillip in 1842. This injustice was abhorrent. These freedom fighters were protecting their people, culture and their Country. We honour them each year and acknowledge all who suffered. Now, with ancestors in peace, we continue the journey toward justice.”
Kate Adams, from the Bass Coast Reconciliation Network, added:
“Truth-telling is an essential step toward reconciliation. This event provides a culturally safe space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community to come together, listen, learn, and reflect. With Treaty now part of the conversation, these events that unite us all with our shared history are more important than ever.”
The Bass Coast Reconciliation Network includes members from Westernport Water, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Bass Coast Shire Council, Bass Coast Health, Myli – My Community Library, West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority, Bunurong Land Council, Bass Coast South Gippsland Reconciliation Group, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members. Together, these organisations work to acknowledge and honour this significant date in Victoria’s history.
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
For additional information about the Bass Coast Reconciliation Network, please visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/reconciliation.
ENDS
Media enquiries to Manager Communications and Engagement on 1300 720 711 or email communications@westernportwater.com.au