Discover the Controversial Acts of an Aboriginal Elder Who Defies the Law—and Why Police Can't Stop Him!

In a world where the rule of law is often seen as the bedrock of society, there are those who challenge its universality and applicability, particularly when it comes to indigenous rights and environmental activism. One such individual is Jim Everett-Puralia Meenamatta, an 81-year-old Aboriginal elder, who has become a figure of controversy and admiration for his staunch refusal to recognize the jurisdiction of Australian law over himself and his actions.


Jim Everett-Puralia Meenamatta's story is not just about a series of rogue acts; it's a narrative deeply rooted in the history and ongoing struggle of Aboriginal Tasmanians. His recent defiance of a court order to appear before a magistrate over charges related to anti-logging protests has sparked a conversation about sovereignty, environmental stewardship, and the clash between colonial and indigenous laws.


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Aboriginal elder Jim Everett-Puralia Meenamatta defied legal authorities by failing to appear in court for anti-logging protest charges in Tasmania. Credit: Facebook / Bob Brown Foundation


Everett, a respected elder and a Pakana Plangermairreenner man, has been a vocal advocate for the protection of Aboriginal lands from logging and other forms of environmental degradation. His actions, supported by the Bob Brown Foundation—an environmental action group led by former federal Greens leader Bob Brown—highlight a broader movement that seeks to preserve the natural heritage and cultural significance of Tasmania's forests.


The elder's refusal to appear in what he calls a 'colonial court' is a statement that resonates with many indigenous Australians. He asserts that the British, and consequently Australian, laws were imposed on Aboriginal Tasmanians without consent, and therefore, he does not recognize their legitimacy over his sovereign rights to protect his country.

This stance has led to a second arrest warrant being issued for Everett, but enforcing it poses a challenge. The elder resides on the remote, Aboriginal-owned Bass Strait island of Cape Barren, a vast area where locating and apprehending him is no simple task. Moreover, his commitment to his cause is unwavering, as he has expressed a willingness to face the consequences of his actions, whether they be fines or jail time.

Everett's actions and the support he receives from figures like Bob Brown and Nala Mansell, the campaign manager of the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, underscore a broader debate about the intersection of indigenous rights and environmental activism. Mansell has called for the trespass charge against Everett to be dropped, arguing for flexibility in the application of laws that govern Aboriginal people and their cultural responsibilities.


The elder's life work, which includes poetry, plays, political and academic papers, and short stories, is a testament to his deep connection to his heritage and the land. He speaks of the generational trauma experienced by Aboriginal communities due to the destruction of their country, a sentiment that fuels his determination to protect it.

As our members, many of whom have witnessed significant social and legal changes over the decades, reflect on this issue, it's important to consider the complexities of governance, law, and cultural heritage. Jim Everett-Puralia Meenamatta's story is not just about defiance; it's about the enduring quest for recognition and respect for Aboriginal laws and ways of life.
Key Takeaways
  • An Aboriginal elder, Jim Everett-Puralia Meenamatta, defied legal authorities by not showing up in court for charges related to anti-logging protests in Tasmania.
  • A new arrest warrant has been issued for Everett, who maintains that Australian law does not hold jurisdiction over him as an Aboriginal person protecting his country.
  • Everett claims that formal agreements for Aboriginal citizens to follow Australian laws have never been made, emphasising his sovereignty over such laws.
  • Despite potential consequences, including jail time, Everett intends to continue protesting against logging activities and argues for the recognition of Aboriginal laws and sovereignty.
We invite you to share your thoughts on this matter. Have you encountered similar stories of indigenous activism in your community? How do you think such conflicts between traditional laws and modern legal systems should be resolved? Your insights are valuable, and we look forward to a robust discussion in the comments below.
 
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He is more then entitled to believe in his traditional laws. But if he does not want to obey these so called colonial laws then do not expect any government help or hand outs ie:- money, assistance, any benefits at all . Aboriginals can not have it both ways.
Exactly. Students get higher Centrelink payments. it is called Abstudy allowance. There is a few other Centrelink benefits that Indigenous people benefit from financially too.
 
No wonder this culture is the fastest growing culture in Australia. With all the extra anti discrimination rules, special privileges etc
why would you not want to identify as aboriginal or Torres Strait islander.
Too bad if you are actually a first nations person trying to live your best life. Especially when circumstances are against you.
 
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Exactly. Students get higher Centrelink payments. it is called Abstudy allowance. There is a few other Centrelink benefits that Indigenous people benefit from financially too.
Please keep in mind that there are also first nations people who pay their own way through university, keep themselves employed and contribute to the community they live in, rather than the one they choose. I bet nobody has collated statistics on this group. It's too easy to point the finger at people you think have unfair advantages, than to get up and get on with your own life. And NO,I'M NOT A FIRST NATIONS PERSON.
 
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No wonder this culture is the fastest growing culture in Australia. With all the extra anti discrimination rules, special privileges etc
why would you not want to identify as aboriginal or Torres Strait islander.
The increase in indigenous people just before the referendum by approx 250,000 says it all. They thought if the referendum passed there would be lots of financial benefits. There should be a DNA test to prove aboriginality like New Zealand has for their Maori people.
 
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The increase in indigenous people just before the referendum by approx 250,000 says it all. They thought if the referendum passed there would be lots of financial benefits. There should be a DNA test to prove aboriginality like New Zealand has for their Maori people.
Yes, that would be the ‘white’ culture….100% more ‘white’ people defrauding the taxpayers, including unemployment welfare, disability welfare, pension welfare, tax evasion etc. I only saw this story to be about an important environmental issue actually, but now that many have brought their issues to the table….I see the problem clearly…gnarly fingers fighting over the pot …again! A lot of different ‘cultures’ in Australia…now…many of whom seem to feel entitled in one way or another…as it suits their purpose. Too funny lol
 
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Yes, that would be the ‘white’ culture….100% more ‘white’ people defrauding the taxpayers, including unemployment welfare, disability welfare, pension welfare, tax evasion etc. I only saw this story to be about an important environmental issue actually, but now that many have brought their issues to the table….I see the problem clearly…gnarly fingers fighting over the pot …again! A lot of different ‘cultures’ in Australia…now…many of whom seem to feel entitled in one way or another…as it suits their purpose. Too funny lol
Too funny or altogether too sad. Australia would be in a much better financial situation if we cut out all the middle-men and red tape. Maybe then we wouldn't also be so dependent on volunteers.
 
Are there two versions of “Equality”? Or does the definition change to suit the circumstances? There are so many inconsistencies that I don’t believe can ever be resolved. ☹️
 
His crime is trespassing so let’s lock him up. He is 82 years old, obviously trespassing is a major crime if he needs to be locked up. Never mind the offenders guilty of serious crimes such as murder, rape, domestic violence, the list goes on, who are let off with a slap on the wrist time and again, don’t let’s lock any of them up, just let them go free to commit more of these heinous crimes. Seriously!
 
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His crime is trespassing so let’s lock him up. He is 82 years old, obviously trespassing is a major crime if he needs to be locked up. Never mind the offenders guilty of serious crimes such as murder, rape, domestic violence, the list goes on, who are let off with a slap on the wrist time and again, don’t let’s lock any of them up, just let them go free to commit more of these heinous crimes. Seriously!
I hope you include the bastards responsible for Robodebt in those that only get a slap on the wrist (demoted, and only if they're still public servants). The poor bugger in question lives on an island where the authorities can't be bothered (or don't have the authority) to look for him. But he'll, let's waste a shit tonnes of taxpayers $$ making an issue of trivial. It's surely simpler and cheaper than stopping the government sanctioned illegal logging.
 
Take away any money he gets from the government, since he doesn,t respect our laws, & do the same for everyone else, i,m sick & tired of my tax money being abused by certain people
 
Take away any money he gets from the government, since he doesn,t respect our laws, & do the same for everyone else, i,m sick & tired of my tax money being abused by certain people
Well Blackbird…good to know you are one of the few, still working and paying taxes! LOL

Just a FYI though:-

Jim Everett left school at 14 years to start work. His working life includes 15 years at sea as a fisherman and merchant seaman, 3 years Australian Regular Army, a steeplejack, rigger, and many other skilled jobs. Jim has had over 50 years formal involvement in the Aboriginal Struggle. With a long history in government Aboriginal Affairs, and community organisations, he has travelled Australia, and overseas, visiting remote Aboriginal communities.

Jim began writing poetry at an early age. He wrote his first play, We Are Survivors, in 1984, produced, directed, and acted in it. His written works include plays, short stories, and political papers. Jim has produced and been associate producer in many documentary films and a major feature film, and is published in many anthologies.

Contributed more than many - we probably owe him if the truth be told!

“Bye Bye Blackbird”.
 

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