Russel Davey

I’m a Bardi man; Chairperson of Ardyaloon community. We’re 220km north of Broome, on the Dampier Peninsula. Gateway to the Buccaneer Archipalego. This is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I’ve lived here all my life. Pretty much everyone in the community is my family - we’re all related one way or the other! I’m a saltwater man. I love fishing, camping, and being on country.

My role as Chairperson is a pretty full-on 24/7 job: dealing with community issues, managing local tourism, including tours + visits to the Hatchery (a local aquarium for reef fish, and sealife). My vision is to see my people running the community. The road from Broome has just been sealed up, which will hopefully create more employment - we’ll have a lot more people visiting!

Growing up I loved drawing. Every time there was an art class I was involved in that. I carve turtle shells, boab nuts, and ceremony shields. I also do wood burning. I sell through word of mouth - people come into the community and ask around - and they find me!