There are a smaller number of indigenous people who inhabit the huge areas which have been put aside exclusively as territory for the aboriginal people in Arnhem Land and other areas. Although there is state protection where needed, the old traditions of the aboriginal culture of necessity are dying out with fewer and fewer of pure aboriginal ancestry to uphold them. Many try to help their customs survive but they are unable to relate to them in a new and confusing context between their old culture and the western style now entrenched as the social culture for the Australian people. The indigenous people have a choice-to blend with the mainstream of our culture and benefit by the many material advances or to return to tribal customs and communities in lands put aside for them where they are free to live close to nature and according to their ancient rituals and beliefs.

Most Australians however are inclined to believe in the principle of integration in the community both of the indigenous people and the immigrants and do not favour any attitude of separation which is fostered by any vocal minority within any ethnic group or community. Most of us feel that it is important that we stand as one people, a blend of all individuals who must develop with pride, our special land where we are blessed with personal freedom which is seen as a value to be maintained and cherished.

I know and love this land, this wide, brown land where flood and fire and famine occur in nature's calendar of events. It may seem a harsh land in some ways, but perhaps one best summarizes its qualities when assessing one's affections -

I love the clear blue skies, the clean sparkling oceans, the starry skies, the warmth and the heat haze, the sunshine, the interesting plants and flowers, the peace and security with no civil wars and strife, the vastness and sense of space, the hope born of increasing enterprise and care, the ancient landscapes and powerful forces of nature at work, the easy going attitudes of the people and the generous spirit felt through the land, but also through the expression of society. We are a fortunate country, both in our natural wealth and in the vibrancy of our creative spirit where the democratic values are upheld by our people and our governments. We are generous in giving aid and help to others less fortunate.

But we are the driest continent on earth. We have transformed and beautified many landscapes by human effort and our cultivation of forests, parks, farmlands.

What more wondrous future if we had more rain?