Land of the Lightning Brothers, The
1987, 27 Minutes
In the sandstone country southwest of Katherine in the Northern Territory lies a spectacular concentration of Aboriginal rock art - paintings and engravings that are preserved in the cliffs. It is dominated by the figures of the Lightning Brothers - Yagjadbula and Jabaringi - ancestral beings from the Dreamtime, and it also depicts birds, animals, humans and symbols.
For the Wardaman people, who are the traditional custodians of this land, the Lightning Brothers are an important part of their living culture. The Wardaman perform traditional songs and ceremonies associated with special Dreamtime places where their art is found.
However, like many rock art sites, their Dreamtime places are extremely vulnerable. This fascinating and educational program, featuring the music of Australian group Gondwanaland, looks at the way these valuable sites are being preserved.
A Film Australia Production for the Australian Heritage Commission, the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and the Northern Territory Government.
© 2011 National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.
(198690200)
Writer/Director: David Roberts
Featured People: Bob Maza (Narrator)
Year: 1987
Running Time: 27 Minutes
Classification: G
Curriculum Links: Aboriginal Mythology, Australian History, Visual Arts, SOSE/HSIE, Cultural Studies, Indigenous Studies, Studies of Religion, English
SEE ALSO
Australian Biography: Bill Harney
| SKU | 198690200 |
| Brand | Film Australia |
