Indigenous culture captures international media

22/5/03
Western Australia's indigenous heritage and culture has attracted attention from Italian Television Network RAI - the equivalent to Australia's SBS Network.
The one-hour documentary will look at indigenous spirituality and connection with the land and animals, story telling, arts, music, bush tucker and traditional medicine.
The Department of Indigenous Affairs will be interviewed on its Family History unit and the agency's role in helping reconnect members of the stolen generation with their family. An interview has also been arranged with stolen generation member Alan Kickett.
The crew will meet with Nyoongar Elder Ken Colbung at Kings Park today to discuss bush tucker and medicine available in the famous Park.
Indigenous Affairs Minister Alan Carpenter said it was tremendous to see that one of the world's oldest and richest cultures had captured international interest.
"The documentary and the international coverage it will receive will help strengthen the awareness of the diversity of indigenous Australia as it is today," Mr Carpenter said.
"Indigenous people have faced many changes since European settlement, but many have also maintained their traditional lifestyle."
Filming locations have included Mount Magnet, Meekatharra, Cue, Geraldton and Yanchep in Western Australia.
The crew has also filmed in New South Wales, Queensland and the Northern Territory.
Director Angelo Fontana said the documentary would screen on Italian Television later this year.
Minister's office: 9213 6800