Yarri and Jacky Jacky

This powerful story, retold by Mark Tirris, recounts the heroic rescue of 69 Gundagai townspeople by local Aboriginal men, Yarri and Jacky Jacky. It also talks about how their selfless act brought the Aboriginal and European people closer together. Yarri and Jacky Jacky's rescue feats are still celebrated by the town of Gundagai today, and the statue in the main street is a reminder to all, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous.

Mark Tirris is a proud descendant of the Wiradjuri Peoples of South West NSW and has always been active in his local Aboriginal community in Northern NSW. He successfully completed a Master's degree in Indigenous Studies (Wellbeing) through Southern Cross University. His professional experience includes five years working in several Aboriginal organisations and managing his own Indigenous consultancy business.