Playwright, poet, and political activist Jim Everett is descended from the Ben Lomond people, a clan of the Cape Portland nations in North-east Tasmania. His name Pura-lia Meenamatta meaning 'paperbark' from the Ben Lomond area, is taken from his main ancestory, the Plangermairreenner people.
Everett left primary school at age 14 to begin work. His working life included thirteen years at sea and over thirty years of formal involvement in the Aboriginal struggle. He has had a long history in the public service in Aboriginal Affairs, as well as lecturing in Aboriginal heritage, culture and history, producing radio and television progams, and has also been a Writer-in-Residence at Risdon Cove in Tasmania and has travelled extensively in Australia visiting many remote Aboriginal communities.
Jim began writing poetry at an early age. He wrote his first play, 'Survivors' in 1984 after seeing Jack Davis' play The Dreamers. His written works now include plays, political papers and short stories and he has been published in many major anthologies. Jim's other work includes, television documentaries, educational videos and theatre productions. He has lived on Cape Barren Island writing and operating his consultancy business.
