Local Author
Gwenda Baker tells the story of three brothers, Waŋgurri clan leaders.
Set at the beginning of the 20th century, the period marks a time of intense challenges and change for Yolŋu. It was a time of turmoil as their land was gradually occupied by white people. The interactions of the leaders with the incomers tells a complex story of negotiations, consultations and change from within the structures and systems of the Yolŋu world. Once were warriors, also peacemakers. The Yolŋu world has its own peacemaking systems and peacemakers. Making peace, keeping the peace, defending the peace. All are necessary functions in a working society. The Waŋgurri leaders led their people to peace within their own world into the new world. None of this was easy. Peacemakers and warriors, Makarrwala, Bataŋga and Binydjarrrpuma are still revered today. These are some of their stories.