Conversations The Bark Petitions — how Yolngu tradition changed democracy
Feb 18, 2025
Clare Wright, a Professor of History at La Trobe University and author of "Naku Daruk: The Bark Petitions," dives into a little-known yet pivotal moment in Australian democracy. She shares her experiences living in the Yolngu community and uncovers the significance of the Bark Petitions, where Yolngu people asserted their custodianship over their land through art and language. Clare highlights the transformative effects these petitions had on Indigenous rights, revealing a profound cultural and political awakening that reshaped the narrative of democracy in Australia.
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Book Title Origins
- Clare Wright's book title, Naku Daruk, came from a conversation with Galarruy Yunupingu.
- Naku means bark (the petitions' material) and Daruk means message/outcome (their purpose).
Move to Yirrkala
- Clare Wright's family moved to Yirrkala due to her husband's work as a furniture maker.
- He was invited to explore making furniture from the local Gadeka tree.
The Story Finds Her
- Clare Wright knew of the Bark Petitions but learned their true significance after being adopted into the community.
- Galarrwuy Yunupingu, recognizing her as a storyteller, shared the Yolngu perspective.