William Barak dead age 79.

Jade Hall, Indigenous reporter "There are a lot of white fellas on pedestals and it's about time we saw a black fella up on one." Colin McKinnon, Director of Mia Mia Gallery, Melbourne

Barak in his mid thirties

William Barak, the indigenous spokesman for Aboriginal rights, died on Wednesday 15th August, in Melbourne. Barak played a major role in advocating for Aboriginal rights and protecting his people's culture. William wanted to continue the indigenous culture and beliefs. He visited government house and fought for indigenous rights and living conditions. He suggested to the Victorian government that they should set up self-governing Aboriginal communities. "Give us this ground and let us manage here ourselves with no one over us" he said. The government disagreed. Those who knew William Barak described him unanimously as wise and dignified, with penetrating eyes and firm principles. To his people, Barak was known as the King of Yarra The Protection Board for Aborigines noted him 'the most intelligent, knowledgeable, remarkable black Australian'. Barak's beliefs and attitudes were influenced by his father. As Farmer John Batman was rowing down the Yarra River (the Birrarung) he noticed acres of lush green land ideally suited for farming. He immediately decided to sign a "treaty". In 1835, at the age of 12 years, Barak witnessed the first and only bid for a "treaty" between Aboriginal and white Australians. Barak and his cousin Simon Wonga, a Ngurunggaeta, worked to establish and protect Coranderrk, a self-sufficient Aboriginal farming community in Healesville. He became a prominent figure in the struggle for Aboriginal rights and justice. Wonga died in 1875, therefore Barak succeeded him as clan leader. While in Coranderrk, Barak recorded Koorie culture through storytelling and art. He invited white settlers and dignitaries to visit the reserve. Skilled in the arts of diplomacy and friendship, over time he gained growing respect and fame within his own culture, in settler society and even abroad. Barak changed what others thought of Aborigines. He left behind positive parts of his culture and beliefs. The many deeds that Barak accomplished, changed the way many white Australians regard the Aborigines now.

Thursday, 16th of August, 1903, Melbourne.