Northern Territory Major Events Company

Merlin Darwin Triple Crown embraces Aboriginal culture

18 June 2021 –

In a first for the sport, preparations have begun for next year’s Merlin Darwin Triple Crown to become the official Indigenous Round of the Supercars championship.

This year’s event will incorporate several elements of Aboriginal culture that will set a firm foundation for following years.

Most visible will be the inclusion of an Aboriginal artwork by Territory Larrakia artist Trent Lee. He was commissioned to design a piece that resonates with the Hidden Valley track and the surrounding Larrakia land, sea and people. This will be the centrepiece of the Darwin Indigenous

Round and will be available for use by the Supercars teams moving forward. In preparation for next year, all teams will be encouraged to work with Aboriginal artists from their region to design an artwork specifically for them.

Elements of each will be incorporated into the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown Aboriginal artwork, to form a national celebration of Australia’s Aboriginal cultures.

Another addition to this year’s Merlin Darwin Triple Crown was the Smoking Ceremony.

This took place at the official driver and rider signing at Darwin Waterfront on Thursday, 17 June.

betr Darwin Triple Crown Supercars respectfully acknowledges the past, present and emerging Traditional Owners of the beautiful land on which we live, work and gather. We respect the cultural practices and traditions of our hosts, recognise the importance of sustainably caring for our country, and commit to being respectful visitors to traditional lands.