In this informative and moving picture book, Rosie Smiler tell the story of how her grandfather – Australian hero Vincent Lingiari – courageously led the Gurundji people in a walk-off from the Wave Hill Cattle Station in 1966. The years-long strike that followed grew into a First Nations land right movement. This historic walk-off is now celebrated by the Gurundji people with a Freedom Day festival.
This empowering book is both a reflection on an important part of Australia’s history, and a call to action. While the book ends on a hopeful note, it is also made clear that there is still much that needs to change. The narrative is both engaging and informative, the story told in an intimate first-person voice that is accessible for young readers of all ages.
The illustrations reflect both the heartbreak and hope of the story being told, with deep browns, reds, and oranges illuminating the beauty of the Australian landscape.
This book is designed to initiate conversation around First Nations history, land rights, courage, what it means to truly be a hero, and the adoption of the Uluru Statement.
Rosie Smiler is a Gurindji woman and the granddaughter of the great Gurindji leader Vincent Lingiari. Thomas Mayor is a Torres Strait Islander man born on Larrakia Country in Darwin. Samantha Campbell is an illustrator and graphic designer who is descended from the Dagoman people from Katherine.