Matt Hewson
The annual Local Word Writers Festival will host a special event this August.
My BackYard – A story about the Wadawurrung People is one of five panel discussions taking place at Geelong Regional Library & Heritage Centre on Sunday, August 25.
It will feature the art and poetry of the late Ron Milligan in a newly published booklet produced in consultation with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.
The paintings and words are Mr Milligan’s reflections of the history of European settlement and colonisation in the Geelong area, a topic he had a passion for learning about and sharing with others throughout his life.
The panel, led by Gunditjmara man and creative Tom Molyneux, will feature Gunditjmara, Wotjobaluk, Ngarrindjeri and Muandik woman Kylie Clarke, Mr Milligan’s daughter Kerry Spina and Geelong One Fire president and co-producer of the booklet Vicky Grosser.
Ms Grosser said Mr Milligan’s thirst for the truth had a big impact on many people.
“Early in his life he was really interested in where he was, and he would ask his family what happened to the Aboriginal people around here,” she said.
“He got answers that didn’t satisfy him, and he went on to keep inquiring. He built relationships with Aboriginal people here on Wadawurrung Country, he read and learned a lot.
“He was, I believe… really shocked by the huge impact (of Europeans) very quickly on the Wadawurrung people; how many died, or had to flee the Country, and the very small number who survived.”
Ms Grosser said Mr Milligan’s quest for truth was not about punishment, but about respecting the Wadawurrung people.
“We can have a life that’s really different in the future, that’s collaborative and committed and kind and is based on learning from the community, but we’re not there yet,” she said.
