Cirrus@Austlit

'This is an intriguing book about a largely under-researched area of indigenous Australia. It is also a book likely to spark controversy. Sharp sets out to redress the limited historical and general knowledge about the Aboriginal groups who were traditional residents in the areas around the tip of Cape York Peninsula in northern Queensland. In doing so, she aims to educate readers out of the general ignorance and disregard for the perspectives of indigenous people in historical accounts of early culture contact and in the personal dynamics of intercultural relationships.(Introduction)

'Mudrooroo Narogin was presented the 1992 Stanner Award at the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies on 15 July for this book. The award was given for

a significant work of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies, making a major contribution to the promotion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and identity, being an important contribution to greater awareness and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and identity.'  (Introduction)

'Both these books are about the Federal Council for the Advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, better known as FCAATSI. McGinness was the National President for most of the life of the organisation (1958-77). Bandler held many positions, including Acting General Secretary and Director of the 'Vote Yes' Committee in the 1967 Referendum.'  (Introduction)

'Following a field trip in 1966 to a number of Central Australian Aboriginal communities collecting and studying children's art as a member of a party led by the late W D Nicol, Noel Wallace embarked on a 12-year field study of Pitjantjatjara religion and culture. Every year Noel and his wife Phyl travelled from Melbourne to Central Australia to spend four months in Pitjantjatjara communities. These field trips were partly self-funded and partly funded by the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.'  (Introduction)