Note on the cover image
The cover photograph shows the members of a 1901 expedition through central Australia led by Frank Gillen (seated, left) and Baldwin Spencer (seated, right). To the rear stands mounted constable Harry Chance. Beside these white men are two Arrernte men, Erlikilyika (to the left) and Purunda (to the right). We have used this image to represent the unacknowledged participation of Indigenous people in the activities of academics in the University’s history. The uncredited work of Erlikilyika as interpreter of both language and culture informed many of the conclusions of the white ethnographers and the anthropologists who followed. The expedition would have been impossible without the knowledge of these Indigenous men, and the scholarship it produced exists only because of them.
Today at the University of Melbourne we pay respect to Elders past, present and future, and acknowledge the importance of Indigenous knowledge in the Academy. As a community of researchers, teachers, professional staff and students, we are privileged to work and learn every day with Indigenous colleagues and partners.
Note on language
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this book contains images and names of people who have died. Readers are also advised that they may be disturbed by the content of this book, which includes distressing images and descriptions, and derogatory terms used in their historical context, including for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Note on terminology
The following terms are used interchangeably throughout the book: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, First Nations, First Peoples, Indigenous Australians (inclusive of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), Aboriginal peoples and Indigenous peoples (commonly used for First Nations peoples internationally). We also use the term non-Indigenous to refer to those who do not identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander or First Nations people.
When referencing Traditional Owner groups in Victoria, we have followed the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council determinations of the Registered Aboriginal Party in place as at November 2023. For Traditional Owner groups in other states, we have consulted with Elders and community leaders to ensure that we are using the most accurate names. The name of the Indigenous leader Trukanini is one that has changed in recent years from ‘Truganini’ or other variations. We have adopted the current preferred spelling.