Special didgeridoos for Darwin Triple Crown podium winners

The 2023 Indigenous Round Didgeridoo Trophies have been revealed ahead of today’s opening race of the betr Darwin Triple Crown.

First awarded in 2022, place-getters at this weekend’s Repco Supercars Championship event will receive the special trophies for top podium placings in all three races held at Hidden Valley this weekend.

In collaboration with renowned artist William Hewitt from the Larrakia community, the top three finishers in the Supercars races will be awarded the stunning didgeridoos adorned with Indigenous artwork.

Crafted by Hewitt, the didgeridoos showcase a rich tapestry of Indigenous culture and symbols, incorporating the ancient stories and totems of the Larrakia people. Each didgeridoo represents a different spirit totem, adding a deep and meaningful context to the artwork:

The crocodile, or Danggalaba, is inscribed on each of the first place trophies, symbolizing the sacred Boss Totem and protector of the Larrakia people. The crocodile embodies strength and vigilance. It silently watches over the waterways ensuring the harmony and well-being of its children, and its presence serves as a warning to those who disrespect its children and their rules.

Race runners-up this weekend will receive a didgeridoo featuring the barramundi, or dembe’bi-la. The barramundi is a symbol of the waters and a master hunter. Its ability to change sex highlights its unique powers, and it is both revered and feared as a deadly spirit and a source of bush tucker.

Displayed on the third place trophies is the catfish, which is revered in many Indigenous communities represents both saltwater and freshwater spirits. With its intelligence and strength, the catfish rules its territory and hunts with its distinctive whiskers.

Supercars Australia is proud to embrace Indigenous culture and showcase the incredible artwork of William Hewitt and the Larrakia community through these unique didgeridoo trophies. These trophies serve as a tangible representation of the connection between motorsport and the rich tapestry of Australian Indigenous heritage.

The first didgeridoo trophies of the betr Darwin Triple Crown will be awarded this afternoon following the first Supercars race of the weekend, Race 13 of the current championship, which begins at 3:25 p.m. ACST.

Coverage of the betr Darwin Triple Crown can be found on Seven and Foxtel, with live streaming available on 7plus and Kayo.