Anonymous 1212

Colonisation in Victoria began in 1834, when the Henty brothers established a permanent European settlement on Gunditjmara country, in what is now known as Portland. Yoorrook heard evidence of the violent theft of land, water and resources that followed. Historian and professor Richard Broome described the spread of settlers as likely the “swiftest expansion within the British empire of any occupation of land.” By the 1840s, squatters had established 700 stations and brought over millions of sheep. Professor Henry Reynolds described this “squatting rush” as unlike anything else in the “history of European colonisation.” There are 49 known massacres in Victoria (this map shows the recorded massacres in Australia), but as Professor Marcia Langton explained “these records are the tip of the iceberg … it is unlikely most of the killings were recorded.” Yoorrook heard estimates that 60,000 people may have lived in Victoria pre-European contact. By the early 1850s, it was less than 2,000. The ongoing impact of these massacres and the dispossession of First Nations land and waters was explored throughout the hearings.

Definitley not comprehensive at all. Any learning I’ve had has been through cultural awareness training, after school. The education system in Australia is appalling when it comes to learning about the true and long history of this country. It is shameful.

Embedding First Nations history and more cultural awareness inn both primary and secondary school.

Take initiative to learn more, and LISTEN. Vote for MPs who are supportive of treaty and truth telling. Pay the rent.

Take initiative to learn more, and LISTEN. Vote for MPs who are supportive of treaty and truth telling. Pay the rent.