Description

Title: My Way
Author/Publisher: W.H. Rourke (No Publisher)
Publication Year: 1980
Format: Hardcover with Dust Jacket

p. 167-168: : Author’s visit to Roebourne school; observation that “full-blood” children did not attend school; wish of elder “Tumbler” that all Aboriginal children attend school; problem of hygiene and lack of water; problem of relations between half-caste and full blood children; prejudice against enrolment of Aboriginal children in state schools; in Port Hedland all Aboriginal children attended convent school; p. [174] : good relations between black and white pupils at Marble Bar; p. 188: camp schools held in coastal locations for isolated white and Aboriginal children; p. 204 : Confrontation with W.A. Minister of Education Harry Strickland over education of Aboriginal children; visit to Roebourne; Decision that Aboriginal children could attend the state school despite objections from white parents ; p. [210] : Establishment of segregated Aboriginal school at Roebourne; Author advises mixed-race convent school in Broome; p. [224] : Establishment of school at cattle station GoGo Station; Establishment of schools at Kimberley Research Station, Glenroy Station; p. [239]-248: Missions and education at Forrest River; Sunday Island, Lombadina, Beagle Bay, La Grange; p. [250] Mixed race camp school at Point Peron demonstrated harmonious race relations.xi, 304 p. : ill., col. maps, ports. ; 23 cm

Synopsis

Published in 1980, W.H. Rourke's 'My Way' is a significant first edition work of non-fiction history, delving into the intricacies of education within Western Australia during a pivotal period.

This volume offers a compelling account of the challenges and observations surrounding the schooling of Aboriginal children in the region, providing invaluable insights into the social and educational landscape of the time.

• Roebourne School Observations: Rourke meticulously documents his visit to Roebourne school, noting the attendance patterns of 'full-blood' children and the poignant wish of local elder 'Tumbler' for all Aboriginal children to access education.
• Systemic Challenges in Education: The author explores various obstacles faced, including issues of hygiene, water scarcity, and the complex social dynamics between 'half-caste' and 'full-blood' children, all impacting school attendance.
• Prejudice and Policy: Insights are offered into the prejudice encountered regarding the enrolment of Aboriginal children in state schools, juxtaposed with the progressive attendance rates observed in Port Hedland.

As a first edition, 'My Way' by W.H. Rourke stands as an important primary source document. Its detailed examination of Aboriginal education in Western Australia makes it a valuable acquisition for collectors, historians, and researchers focused on Australian social history and Indigenous studies.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Very Good condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

Specifications