I was listening to Together Alone for the umpteenth time when this line drew my attention: 'I like black and I like red and I like that orange circle' which made my curious as to whether he had any Aboriginal ancestry. After a bit of internet searching I understand he was a well-known supporter of Aboriginal musicians and land rights, so I thought that this would be a suitable topic for discussion if anyone has more info. (PS I now know that the circle on the flag is yellow not orange, but I'm sure that this is what the lyric refers to).
I'm not too sure when Paul began supporting Aboriginal musicians and their land rights campaign. But I'm sure it was a long time ago!
I believe his dad lived in the bush in the Northern Territory where the population of Aborigines is greater - perhaps his enthusiasm for such valid causes originated from there?
I actually went to an Aboriginal Landrights show in Melbourne way back on the 26th February, 1989. You guessed it, Neil, Paul, Mark Seymour and Jeremy Smith from Hunters and Collectors played an acoustic gig. It certainly was a day to remember for obvious reasons and I'm sad to say that it turned out to be the closest I ever got to Paul. Don't get me wrong, I'm so glad I got this close but I always wanted to meet and talk with him. Here's one very old picture I took that day, sorry about the quality!
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Posts: 779 | Location: Melbourne | Registered: 28 March 2005
