Experiences of Cherbourg (Barambah)

Drawing on my personal recollections, the memories of residents, some historical artefacts, and scholarly works, this chapter introduces Cherbourg (previously known as Barambah). It tells a story of survival against powerful odds, as an artist and educator born into the dormitory systems of Cherbourg Aboriginal Settlement. I was the oldest girl of 12 children; my parents were appointed house parents of the Cherbourg Boys Dormitory for over 25 years. Over the years, mum and dad looked after hundreds of boys, all from families that were conscripted to work at Cherbourg and elsewhere. Despite attempts to oppress them, it is now apparent that the fundamental values of Aboriginal culture were still being maintained in their art, stories, songs, languages, and oral histories. Aboriginal lives certainly changed as a result of the new European influences, and although they were continually reminded about the dislocation from traditional Country, the reality was that everyone on Cherbourg did their utmost to make do. For example, an adapted kinship system and language was developed by different groups when forced to reside together. While restricted beliefs and practices disappeared underground for years, they later resurfaced in publications or as art.