Makassar to Arnhem Land-a film in the making
You may not have heard of Documentary Australia. Its basically an auspicing body that provides approved documentary film projects with access to Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status, allowing independent filmmakers to access philanthropic funding and enabling donors to tax effectively support the issues they care about. It’s a Not for Profit, and generally supports films that advocate for social change. The reason that we know about it here at SWS, is that one of our editors is the creator of a film currently being funded on the platform. Its not about boats…but it is amazing, so TAKE A LOOK!
Thanks to Petrina Dorrington the producer on “Like My Brother”, SWS has been alerted to another documentary in production that IS about wooden boats. It sounds really interesting.
Wangany Mala
In Makassar, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, a young Muslim woman buys supplies for a traditional pinisi sailing boat that is nearing completion. Meanwhile in Yirrkala, northeast Arnhem Land, Arian and Timmy make arrangements for a visit to their Bawaka homelands. Alternating between communities in present-day Australia and Indonesia, the film shows that the First Nations connections with the so-called Makassans are still alive, despite the actions of Australian authorities.
Featuring rarely seen photographs, artwork, and also footage from the National Film and Sound Archive, the film amplifies the knowledge of Edith Mamarika on Groote Eylandt, along with other Knowledge Holders on both sides of the relationship – some of whom have now passed away. This contemplative documentary is set to a multilayered soundtrack by experimental Melbourne composer Fia Fiell.
If you are interested in learning more and perhaps even helping with the funding then click HERE