Some lives, like that of Banjo Clarke, are so special they touch countless others without trying. Banjo was born in the early 1920s in the Framlingham Forest near Warrnambool, Victoria, and by the time he passed away he was known and loved by thousands for his wisdom and kindness.
A direct descendant of Truganini, Banjo carried a swag during the Depression, fought with Jimmy Sharman's famous boxing troupe, built roads during World War II, and had 67 great-grandchildren. Despite the great hardships and racism he faced in his life, Banjo was renowned for espousing love and forgiveness, sustained by his deep connection to his land, his ancient culture and its spiritual beliefs. He embodied the spirit of reconciliation in its most generous and forgiving form, long before it was given a name, long before it became fashionable.
Includes a Foreword by former prime minister Malcolm Fraser, who knew Banjo, and tributes by Archie Roach, Martin Flanagan and Judith Durham, among others - a sample of the wide range of lives he touched. Countless people from all over the world came to seek him out, and his door was always open to the homeless and the troubled.