Hundreds march to mark 60th anniversary of the historic Wave Hill Walk-Off
On the 60th anniversary of the Wave Hill Walk-Off, more than 1,000 people have marched from Kalkarindji to the banks of the Victoria River to retrace the steps taken by hundreds of stockmen, workers and their families in a pivotal moment for Aboriginal land rights.
To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the historic Wave Hill Walk-Off, over 1,000 people gathered from Kalkarindji to Victoria River for the Gurindji Freedom Day Festival. The 1966 strike, led by Vincent Lingiari, shed light on the poor living conditions and low wages of Aboriginal pastoral workers, igniting the land rights movement.
While significant progress has been made, Gurindji traditional owner Roslyn Frith emphasizes that Vincent Lingiari's vision for economic prosperity for his people remains unfulfilled. The march, inspired by Brian Manning Junior, who urged young Gurindji leaders to carry on their elders' legacy, also saw the presence of Kerry Gibbs, a 14-year-old who aided the unionists in delivering supplies during the 1966 walk-off.
The Royal Australian Mint has printed 50-cent coins featuring Aboriginal families walking off the station, a design approved by Gurindji elders to symbolize unity and the preservation of their culture. Despite the strides made since the walk-off, Gurindji traditional owner Rob Roy acknowledges ongoing struggles with housing, education, and health, emphasizing the need to build upon the progress achieved, ensuring a healthier future for their community.
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