One of the great Australian writers, Don Watson has done much to hold a mirror up to the nation. His latest title, The Passion of Private White, tells the true story of an anthropologist and Vietnam veteran, Neville White who has devoted fifty years to the Yolngu clans of the Donydji homeland in north-east Arnhem Land; at once mapping and recording their culture, law, lands and languages and helping them build a successful community - one precariously poised between their traditions and European ideology and institutions. Don speaks with Laura Tingle about his storied career and his new book, which brings unique insight into the deep past and the troubled present.
Supported by ARA.
This event is Auslan interpreted.
Don Watson (Australian)
Don Watson's many books include the award-winning Recollections of a Bleeding Heart, Death Sentence, American Journeys and The Bush. He is also the author of essays, screenplays and speeches, and he is a regular contributor to The Monthly. Many of his shorter works are collected in Watsonia (2021). His latest book is The Passion of Private White.
Laura Tingle (Australian)
Laura Tingle has reported on Australian politics for more than 40 years. She joined the ABC in 2018 as chief political correspondent for 7.30, after a long career in print, notably for The Australian Financial Review. She has written four Quarterly Essays, a book about the recession of the early 1990s and won two Walkley Awards. Laura is President of the National Press Club of Australia
