Peter is a proud Ngarrindjeri and Wayilwan man.  Peter spent much of his childhood and youth learning from his grandfather while growing up on Ngemba-Baakandji Country. Peter also spent time on Wayilwan Country as a young child and moved back to Warren from Bourke as a youth worker. He has strong family connections in Bourke and on Baakandji Country (Mildura).

It is his Wayilwan connections to Country and the Beemunnel Reserve Aboriginal Place, however, which drew him back to Warren.  He feels at home on Wayilwan Country, especially at the Beemunnel. Peter is a father of six children.                           

Peter has been granted permission by local Elders to deliver a Welcome to Country in Wayilwan language as required at community events. A fee is charged for such a service due to the extensive work involved in language revival. It is a long process requiring passion and commitment. 

Peter has completed Certificate III in Aboriginal languages for Community Use – Wayilwan language through TAFENSW. Peter’s ability to engage with youth and share his ancestors’ language is one of Peter’s dreaming’s (talents).

Peter has been painting since he was a child, inspired and taught by his grandmother. His work is in high demand with regular commissioning. Peter’s work sells as soon as it is painted. Peter uses acrylics. He is inspired by Country and stories which show the nuances of life and death, hope and restoration, community, river and reconciliation. He hopes that his art can inspire younger generations to use art to tell their stories.

The choreography Peter develops is inspired by Wayilwan Country, Wayilwan ancestors and today’s Wayilwan Elders. What is remaining of the knowledge of Wayilwan ancestors Peter harnesses in dance. As knowledge is revived he uses this for inspiration. Wayilwan totems, carve trees, animals, plants and stories of the Dreaming and of contemporary Australia are shared by Peter through dance. His choreography focuses on traditional styles. Peter’s dreaming for creative works in art is translated into dance. Peter has a deep understanding of the aquacultural practices of the Wayilwan ancestors and this inspires him to share such knowledge through dance.

Additional knowledge shared with Peter by Aunty Beth Wright enables collaborative knowledge building which strengthens connections to Country.