The Aboriginal warrior who led a rebellion against European colonisation in North West Australia, 1894

In Jandamarra’s War we learn how in the 1890’s European settlers arrive in the Kimberley, North West Australia, with vast herds of sheep and cattle, determined to make their fortune by feeding a rapidly growing population in the South. But the settlers soon discover they are amongst indigenous tribes, ready to fight the red-faced invaders who are occupying their land.

This is the story of Jandamarra, an Aboriginal warrior, a Bunuba man, who led one of the most effective rebellions in the history of indigenous peoples’ resistance to European colonisation.  Following banishment from Bunuba society for breaking kinship rules, Jandamarra’s attempts to assimilate into settler culture fail – he cannot accept the cruel and barbarous treatment of his people. Over 3 years he gains notoriety as a powerful yet illusive outlaw as he embarks on a guerilla war against vengeful pastoralists who are determined to punish and defeat the local tribes. In retribution for his actions Jandamarra is hunted down and finally killed at Tunnel Creek. His legend earns him both the admiration of his own people, and international notoriety.

Awards & Festivals

• Winner Best Original Music, WA Screen Awards 2013
• Winner Best Documentary under One Hour, AACTA Awards 2012
• Winner Best Docudrama and Best Biography, ATOM Awards 2012
• Winner Silver Award for Dramatised Documentaries, Australian Cinematographers Society Awards, WA 2011