Remote communities
Submitted: Friday, May 26, 2006 at 00:29
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Barnesy
A post a few days ago on remote Aboriginal communities generated a lot of discussion.
I was wondering how many people touring Australia would consider stopping in a good, peaceful community during their travels if it was possible to do so?
Barnesy
Reply By: Mike Harding - Friday, May 26, 2006 at 13:30
Friday, May 26, 2006 at 13:30
Of course. Why ever not, I stop in small communities all over the world when I travel overseas but I avoid those where I think there will be trouble. otoh keep in mind that with permits required for whites for so many areas, and communities which don't want white people there at all, it's not an easy thing to do.
I see an irony here which makes me smile - many years ago I had some small involvement in ending an oppressive white government which implemented pass laws against blacks - it appears pass laws against whites are OK :)
Mike Harding
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Reply By: Atomnaki - Friday, May 26, 2006 at 13:32
Friday, May 26, 2006 at 13:32
Can't see why you wouldn't stay in any community if it was peaceful and had something to offer you. Whether it be an Aboriginal community or not.
We have been to a few Aborginal communities on our travels over the years, and always paid for permits to either travel the roads through and/or to enter the communitiy as
well. Don't mind that, however have a small question: Do people from other Aboriginal communities need to get a permit to enter one not of their tribe or do they just have automatic entry? Main reason for the question is that a permit is only granted for one particular area/community at a time as there is not a general permit that allows you into all Aboriginal lands.
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Follow Up By: Member - Jiarna (NT) - Friday, May 26, 2006 at 15:02
Friday, May 26, 2006 at 15:02
No they don't. The permit system is based on race, and contravenes a number of international and Australian laws, but what can you do? Someone earlier mentioned about remote communities being brushed under the carpet. That's true, in part because few businesses want to do business in an area where they can't get access or where access can be denied on a whim. Even government workers such as health staff can get their permits suspended if the community (ie: the head person of the day) takes a dislike to them. And there's no appeal.
Just my 1.8c worth after GST
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Reply By: Member - Beatit (QLD) - Friday, May 26, 2006 at 14:24
Friday, May 26, 2006 at 14:24
I would and have but it is a difficult question without it degenerating into some anti racial debate. I have found that the
places I've passed through I have felt safe, that is in Qld, WA, SA and NT and I have been happy to patronise any of the commercial ventures available (including Ayers
rock, accomodation, local shops and other attractions) so no problem there. I will respect their way of life and will do the right thing etc. The only time I haven't felt safe was when I was looking for a
camp in Iron Range and we happen upon some
young guys hitting the turps and les than friendly but that was more about the grog and their
camp being crowded than there skin colour.
There is a distinct difference in the way certain communities conduct themselves (their business - not
mine) with mixed receptions to strangers. Some communities do marvelous things and others are embarrasing and I really don't understand this at all. And I am trying very hard not to impose a western culture/values on what I see but rather trying to understand the confusing message this sends.
Kind regards
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