Launching just in time for International Women’s Day on Monday March 8, Brisbane-based Waanyi artist Judy Watson’s new book, women of brisbane, showcases stories of women, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, who have shaped Brisbane’s history. The book, much like Judy’s art practice, draws on collective memory to reveal the human histories of individuals. The inspiring stories were shared with Judy by historians and the broader Brisbane community when she was developing and installing one of Brisbane’s newest public artworks along the Lores Bonney Riverwalk, titled bandarra-gan chidna: strong woman track / track of strong women, which features the names of noteworthy Brisbane women imprinted onto the walkway.

The book features the names and stories of women whose tales of adversity and change are both captivating and inspiring. Stories included in women of brisbane include that of Gwai-a Catchpenny (c.1810–c.1894), who busked and danced in order to feed her family during the early years of the colony, and Oodgeroo Noonuccal (1920–1993), who served in the Australian Women’s Army Service before she became a published author and a political activist. Along with the narratives of these influential women, Judy’s book will also explore the ecological histories of Brisbane, focusing on the area around Kingsford Smith Drive. Designed by Michael Phillips, women of brisbane will be available at the Museum of Brisbane Shop in three editions – the commercial edition ($33), the Artist’s Edition ($185) and the Artist’s Poster Edition ($88).