Australian Story on ABC and ABC iview profiles Witiyana Marika – When Witiyana Marika first came to the public’s attention in 1991, he was the dreadlocked dancer and clapstick master of the hugely successful rock band Yothu Yindi.
Thirty-five years later, he is fulfilling his destiny as a leader of the Rirratjingu clan in the Northern Territory’s Arnhem Land, following in the steps of his father, Roy Marika.
“He’s an archbishop. He’s a High Court judge. He’s a professor. He’s a counsellor. He’s like a Lord Mayor”,
– says Will Stubbs from the Yirrkala Arts Centre.
Even before he was born, Witiyana was learning the songs and lore of the Yolgnu people of Arnhem Land, with his parents singing to him when he was in the womb.
As a teenage dancer and musician, he was spotted by his uncle Mandawuy Yunipingu, who suggested they form a band together.
Yothu Yindi was catapulted to fame when their song Treaty became a worldwide hit. But the jetset rock ‘n roll lifestyle took a toll.
“I was drinking too much sometimes. It was bad to my body. It was just killing, like killing or ruining my talent”,
– Witiyana tells Australian Story.
“I was really sad.”
Witiyana was called home by his dying father and has emerged as a leader of his people. It’s a critical time for the community which has just won a landmark court case against the local mine that’s likely to result in substantial compensation.
“Over the next few years there’s some fairly complex issues we need to get through. He’s got a massive, important role to play”,
– says Rhian Oliver, chair of the Rirratjingu Corporation.
Morning Star is a rare insight into the rich life of a Yolgnu leader with Australian Story gaining rare access to film the funeral of Witiyana’s brother, a traditional ceremony that stretched over two weeks.
“I would like to bring the clans together”,
– says Witiyana.
“Witiyana is really a peacemaker”,
– says Yalmay Yunipingu, wife of Mandawuy.
“He can do anything. That’s the kind of leadership that he carries now.”
Producer: Ben Cheshire.
Australian Story on ABC and ABC iview – Monday 16 March, 2026 at 8.00pm
Media Release – ABC
TV Central ABC content HERE
Australian Story on ABC and ABC iview profiles Witiyana Marika
