This National Reconciliation week, reflect on the ‘hidden history’ of the 1843 massacre of the Gurnaikurnai people at Warrigal Creek.
About this event
Advice: This page does not contain images of people who have died. The themes in this page may cause distress.
Truth-telling about the wrongs of the past is necessary for reconciliation.
In July 1843, up to 150 Gunaikurnai people were killed near the banks of what is now known as Warrigal Creek. This mass murder was committed by early colonists Angus McMillan and the Highland Brigade.
There exists little to no official documentation of the Warrigal Creek Massacre. Frustrated with the ‘hidden history’ of the massacre, the makers of this 50-minute documentary sought oral histories and combed through archival works to capture and relay the truth of Australia’s violent past.
This documentary captures a story from Victoria, however there were similar stories as the waves of colonisation swept across the country. While we are not personally responsible we continue to live different experiences from these events; some of privilege, some of disadvantage, some unknowing. This is an opportunity to look back, acknowledge events and move forward together as Australians, united though the country on which we all live and a better understanding of our nation’s history.
Following the screening, VMIAC will facilitate a discussion about the film and its importance in understanding the effects of colonisation and inter-generational trauma and resilience for First Nations peoples.
Food and drink refreshments will be offered (meat, vegetarian and gluten free options available). It is free to attend this event, but bookings are essential.
Date and time
Fri., 27 May 2022
5:00 pm – 8:30 pm AEST
Location
Siteworks Workroom 2
33 Saxon Street
Brunswick, VIC 3056
Our history group (Morwell U3A) are having trouble trying to track this documentary down. Can only find the trailer. Could you help us please?