Cummeragunja Walk Off
The Cummeragunja Walk Off which began in February 1939 has been described as the first ever mass strike of Aboriginal people in Australia.
1939 Cummeragunja Walk Off
The Cummeragunja Walk Off was a protest by Aboriginal people at Cummeragunja Station.
On 4 February 1939 about 200 Yorta Yorta people walked off Cummeragunja Station in southern NSW. They were protesting against the poor living conditions and management of the station. They crossed the Murray River into northern Victoria and established a strike camp on the river bank at Barmah.
The strike camp lasted for nine months and eventually the mission manager was transferred. Some Yorta Yorta people returned to the station but many preferred to remain in Victoria.
The Cummeragunja Walk Off has been described as the first ever mass strike of Aboriginal people in Australia. It brought about changes to the Aborigines Protection Act of NSW.
Related records
Note on content of some records
Researchers should be aware that the records may contain images or documentation relating to Aboriginal people who are deceased. Researchers are warned that there may be words and descriptions which may be considered sensitive and/or offensive in today’s contexts.
NRS 905 Chief Secretary Records relating to Aboriginal Affairs (1938-49) File number A1000 [12/7584.1]
This file includes the original petition submitted by station residents requesting that the Station Manager be removed (pp97-99).
NRS-3829 School files [14/7444] Cummeragunja Aboriginal School, 1940-79
These documents relate to a meeting that was held towards the end of the Walk Off, in October 1939, between a Cummeragunja community group and the Minister regarding the education of the children.
This page was first published to mark the 80th anniversary of the Cummeragunja Walk Off which began in February 1939 and ended nine months later in October/November.
Guides to the records
Aboriginal resources: an overview of records
A brief overview of the State archives that document the NSW government's interaction with Aboriginal people from 1788 until today
Aboriginal resources: a guide to NSW State archives
A listing and description of records in our collection which relate to Aboriginal people
19th Century Aboriginal population records
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are respectfully advised that our collection may contain images or names of deceased people in photographs or text. We acknowledge that language in the records referring to Aboriginal people may be confronting and in some instances would be considered offensive if used today.
Published on
First Nations
Browse all
Festival
Dharug Day Out
We’re joining forces with Muru Mittigar Cultural Centre to bring you a day of fun activities for the whole family to enjoy, featuring live music, cultural performances and a range of food and artisan stalls
356 Annangrove Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155
Sunday 12 July 11am–2pm
Workshop
Ceramics Workshop with Kevin ‘Sooty’ Welsh
This hands-on ceramic workshop with Wailwan artist Kevin ‘Sooty’ Welsh explores the cultural significance and living legacy of scar trees in Australia
Wednesday 8 July 10.30am–12pm
9 & 10 July
Workshop
Jade Goodwin Illustration Workshop
Join Jade Goodwin this NAIDOC Week for a special illustration workshop for kids and families
Queens Square, Macquarie Street Sydney NSW 2000
Thursday 9 July 11am–12pm
Workshop
Weaving on Country with Malima
Malima, a family business from the La Perouse Aboriginal Community, share traditional Aboriginal weaving techniques. In this immersive workshop, learn about cultural knowledge and practices that connect weaving to Country
Wentworth Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030
Thursday 16 July 11am–12.30pm