YURLU I COUNTRY
UK PREMIERE
Saturday 21 March | Picture House | Doors 1:00 PM | Session 1:30 PM | End 3:25 PM
Director: Yaara Bou Melhem | 2025 | Australia | 79 mins | 12A | Documentary | Some Banjima with subtitles
UK Premiere
Q&A with Yaara Bou Melhem (director)
Banjima Elder Maitland Parker calls his Yurlu (homelands) 'Poison Country' – a haunting, toxic truth etched into his body. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Western Australia, the film lays bare the devastating impact of the Wittenoom blue asbestos mine, where millions of tonnes of asbestos waste have been left exposed to poison both land and people. As Maitland battles mesothelioma, his resolve to fight for his homeland and future generations only strengthens. Through striking cinematography and deeply personal storytelling, this film stands as a testament to the resilience of Banjima and their unbreakable bond with Country.
Director: Yaara Bou Melhem | 2025 | Australia | 79 mins | 12A | Documentary | Some Banjima with subtitles
UK Premiere
Q&A with Yaara Bou Melhem (director)
Banjima Elder Maitland Parker calls his Yurlu (homelands) 'Poison Country' – a haunting, toxic truth etched into his body. Set against the breathtaking landscapes of Western Australia, the film lays bare the devastating impact of the Wittenoom blue asbestos mine, where millions of tonnes of asbestos waste have been left exposed to poison both land and people. As Maitland battles mesothelioma, his resolve to fight for his homeland and future generations only strengthens. Through striking cinematography and deeply personal storytelling, this film stands as a testament to the resilience of Banjima and their unbreakable bond with Country.
Winner of 7 awards
Best Documentary, Capricorn Film Festival
Best Documentary, Capricorn Film Festival
