Lecture Notes: Moree and the 1965 Freedom Rides

Introduction

• Moree, New South Wales: Known as the artesian spa capital of Australia, famous for its hot springs.
• Historical Context (1950s-60s): Marked by significant segregation and racism, especially against Aboriginal communities.
  • Aboriginal people faced restrictions in public spaces, retail, and even walking freely in town.
  • Cultural practices, such as speaking their language, were forbidden.

Life for Aboriginal People in Moree

• Uncle Wayne Nean's Reflection:
  • Lived under oppressive conditions, likened to being in a 'bubble'.
  • Resided on a mission outside town with restricted movement.
  • Required permission from a manager to leave the mission.

Racism and Segregation

• Public Facilities:
  • Aboriginal children were banned from swimming at the Moree Baths due to a color ban.
  • Limited recreational activities, often resorting to playing games along the riverbank.

Civil Rights Movement and the Freedom Rides

• 1965 Context:

  • American Civil Rights movement gaining momentum.
  • Australia lagging in addressing its own racial issues.

• Charlie Perkins and the Freedom Rides:

  • Group of university students led by Arrernte man Charlie Perkins.
  • Perkins was one of two Aboriginal students at Sydney University.
  • Their mission was to expose and challenge racial discrimination.

The Moree Pool Incident

• Arrival in Moree:

  • Picked up Aboriginal children, including Uncle Wayne, to take them to the pool.
  • Faced resistance and abuse from non-Aboriginal locals.

• Outcome:

  • Six months after the Freedom Rides, Moree Council removed the exclusion rule from the pool.
  • Symbolized a new era of freedom and possibility for Aboriginal people.

Personal Impact

• Uncle Wayne's Journey:
  • Profoundly impacted by Charlie Perkins and the Freedom Rides.
  • Motivated to pursue higher education in Darwin.
  • Inspired to improve living conditions and opportunities for Aboriginal communities.

Conclusion

• Legacy of the Freedom Rides:
  • Inspired Aboriginal individuals to dream and strive for better lives.
  • Opened doors for future generations to pursue opportunities previously denied.
  • Charlie Perkins remains a significant figure of inspiration for those who experienced the Freedom Rides firsthand.