Film Screening: Homeland Story

Next date: Friday, 20 June 2025 | 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM

Homeland Story is an intimate portrait of Donydji, a small Indigenous community in North East Arnhem Land in the far north of Australia. Homelands are situated on the land of the people who live there. They are of central importance to their identity and culture. The film charts the Donydji community's transition from nomadic life to the digital age, from the 1960s to the present day.

One family is featured, across three generations, from the traditional Elder, Dhulutarama, who still knew how to make stone tools, to his grand-daughter, Joanne Yindiri Guyula, who teaches at the Donydji school. It is a moving portrait of the family's struggle to preserve their culture and remain on their Homeland despite the severe obstacles they face.

The film is illustrated with photos and videos taken over the decades by noted anthropologist Neville White, whose own story was told in Don Watson's 2022 book, The Passion of Private White.

Homeland Story is a moving portrait of a resilient and determined community facing the challenges of maintaining their Donydji Homeland and preserving their vibrant culture.

The screening will take place from 2-4pm in Meeting Room 2 of the Gordon Old School Building, accessible from Gordon Library.

Year: 2019

Classification: M

Runtime: 84 min

Produced In: Australia

Directed By: Glenda Hambly