In pictures: The opening of Whales | Tohorā
Aboriginal and Maori Elders, community and staff came together to bless the exhibition and celebrate these majestic creatures.
![Whales | Tohorā launch day](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Some_image.width-1600.9a2157a.jpg)
© Australian Museum
The Whales | Tohorā exhibition opening on Friday 19 October 2018 saw an extraordinary coming together of cultures.
The moving event began with a smoking ceremony guided by Wiradjuri Elder Uncle Jimmy Smith and Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO Nathan Moran. Maori Elder Kura Moeahu then greeted dignitaries with the traditional hongi – the pressing of noses and foreheads – in which it is believed that the breath of life is exchanged. Guests moved into the exhibition and saw a performance by AM Pacific Collections officer Logan Metcalfe, and later a performance by Aboriginal dance group Koomurri.
![Whales | Tohorā launch day](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Some_image.width-1600.fb32641.jpg)
© Australian Museum
![Whales | Tohorā launch day](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Some_image.width-1600.ffb0b4d.jpg)
© Australian Museum
![Whales | Tohorā launch day](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Some_image.width-1600.24f3304.jpg)
© Australian Museum
![Whales | Tohorā launch day](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Some_image.width-1600.eacad5d.jpg)
© Australian Museum
![Whales | Tohorā launch day](https://media.australian.museum/media/dd/images/Some_image.width-1600.0114fba.jpg)
© Australian Museum