"This documentary aims to demonstrate that Aboriginal communities can succeed in business based on cultural values." — Bruce Pascoe
"Yumburra" — a documentary directed by Grace McKenzie — follows author Bruce Pascoe as he establishes a farm on the Wallagaraugh River in New South Wales, Australia. The film premieres at the Sydney Film Festival on June 6 and 7.
The documentary documents Pascoe's efforts to cultivate native grains using methods described in his book Dark Emu.
Pascoe's 2014 book argued that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people practiced agriculture, challenging the colonial narrative that they were solely hunter-gatherers. The book generated controversy, with criticisms directed at Pascoe's claims and his Indigenous ancestry.
McKenzie filmed Pascoe over seven years, visiting approximately 30 times. The documentary shows the development of Black Duck Foods, a First Nations-run business producing organic foods using traditional techniques. Pascoe has since transferred ownership of the farm to the local Aboriginal community.
Pascoe stated that the film is part of a broader truth-telling process for Australia.