OUTBACK LOCALS UPSET Australia Big Righthand Turn Day 22 WESTERN AUSTRALIA
the local police pulled over in their patrol van
I'm in trouble
-Traveldriven
Bidyadanga
Otherwise known as La Grange, in the Kimberley region, is the largest Aboriginal community in Western Australia. A population of about 750 residents. One hundred and eighty kilometres (110 mi) south of Broome and 1,590 kilometres (990 mi) from Perth. The traditional owners of the land are the Karajarri people.
Entry to Bidyadanga is restricted. Permit may be required.
I was offered an opportunity to accompany a two man maintenance work group to a local government building in Bidyadanga for a day on a weekend. Sure, ok.
On arrival I wandered about part of the townscape. Always mindful taking photographs showing local's is a sensitive issue in restricted communities. I was careful only to photograph streetscapes and signs with a small camera.
Questioned by Local Police of Western Australia
However, shortly before all maintenance work was completed the local police pulled over in their patrol van and one of the two officer's leaned out of a window and inquired if anyone of us knew of someone photographing the community. The camera bag was slung over my back. We all said no. A white lie on my behalf. No doubt referring to my earlier walkabout.
I had not photographed any people at all. Nor pointed the camera at people. Just streets and signs.
A misunderstanding avoided. With hindsight I shouldn't have walked around as much drawing attention. Point taken.
Fatal stabbings have occurred in this sometimes troubled small community in a tropical environment where life should be carefree. There is little opportunity for youth. Violence amongst locals getting out of hand. Perhaps the result of isolation and boredom with little purpose for some.
Traveldriven
ENTER CLICK/TAP
TRAVEL DOWN UNDER BIDYADANGA
BIDYADANGA COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY SERVICES SIGN
BIDYADANGA STREETSCAPE
HIGH FENCES & BARBED WIRE
TIDY TOWNS 2014?
NO FUN!
PAINTED HANDS
CAGED FUEL BOWSER
CAGED STREET LIGHTS
CAMPFIRE ASHES IN TOWN
LOCAL HOUSING
NO GO AREA, WHY?
BIDYADANGA PUBLIC BUILDING
BIDYADANGA CHURCH SERVICES
SUPERMARKET NOTICE BOARD
STORE OFFICIALY OPENED 1984
ANOTHER SUPERMARKET NOTICE BOARD
RANGER VEHICLE
BIDYADANGA GENERAL STORE
