FIFTY-SIX people gathered at Dungog’s historic James Theatre on Saturday 31 May, for a special screening of the award-winning documentary “The Voice – A Journey to be Heard”.
Presented by Reconciliation Dungog, the event featured the film’s co-director and Cairns Indigenous leader, Semara Jose, who was the evening’s honoured guest.
Semara’s presence brought a personal dimension to the film’s themes of Indigenous empowerment, self-determination, and the ongoing fight for land rights in Australia.
The Voice – A Journey to be Heard chronicles the determined efforts of the Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good (DIYDG) group, led by Semara.
Their goal was to travel over 3000 kilometres from Cairns to the Gurindji Freedom Day Festival in Kalkaringi, Northern Territory.
The festival commemorates the landmark 1966 Wave Hill Walk-Off, a key moment in the struggle for Aboriginal land rights led by Vincent Lingiari.
As the film follows the DIYDG convoy’s epic journey ahead of the 2024 Voice Referendum, Semara shares the importance of cultural connection and the role of young leaders in shaping their communities’ futures.
The documentary also explores how Indigenous youth can maintain their cultural identity while navigating Western systems of success.
Following the screening, Semara engaged with the audience in a heartfelt discussion.
She spoke of the emotional challenges the group faced on returning to Cairns after the referendum’s ‘Yes’ case was defeated.
Yet, she emphasised the unbreakable camaraderie of the DIYDG group and their shared commitment to ensuring young Indigenous voices are heard.
“The inescapable and hopeful conclusion,” said Semara, “is that young people must have a say in the systems that affect them.”
Fran Crane, a member of Reconciliation Dungog, thanked Semara for her presence, her work with young people, and the film.
“We people in Dungog are right behind you,” Fran said.
“We are here for you and we support you.”
Despite being “saddened” by the referendum result, Reconciliation Dungog convenor Jenny Akers said the film was a reminder to stay positive.
“Hope is always a choice. We can choose hope,” she said.
The film, which won the Intrepid Audience Award at the Melbourne International Film Festival, was directed by first-time documentarian Krunal Padhiar, who brings a background in social work and global volunteerism to his storytelling.
The Voice – A Journey to be Heard is set for online release by the end of the year.
By Shannon BENTON
