LAND BILONG ISLANDERS
A narrated advocacy documentary about the struggle of the indigenous people of Murray Island (Torres Straits) for land rights. It has been very recently completed by the Melbourne based team which produced Red Matildas and Painting the Town, and is premiered at this year's Festival.
While celebrating facets of indigenous culture in the Torres Straits the film details aspects of the important legal battle currently facing the Murray Islanders in their common law dispute with both Queensland and Federal governments. As well as its crucial local import, legal precedents set in this case will have radical implications for land rights across Australia.
An eye for the powerfully ironic image and John Whitteron's luscious cinematography enhance the telling of this important story.
- (JH)