Jedda
Set in the NT, Jedda, was the first movie to feature Aboriginal people in star roles, Ngarla Kunoth as Jedda and Robert Tudawali as the leading man. It was also the first Australian film to be shot in colour.
The film tells of an Aboriginal teenage girl trying to find her place, who becomes attracted to a handsome stranger, Marbuck, and later kidnapped by him.
The film ends in tragedy when Marbuck, haunted by a death wish from his tribe and pursued by Jedda’s family, leads Jedda to their demise with the final famous scene of Jedda leaping from the rock wall.
The final scene was originally filmed at Katherine Gorge but after the film was destroyed in a plane crash, re-shot the scene in NSW.
Today visitors can marvel at the majestic rock wall known as ‘Jedda’s Leap’ whilst taking a boat cruise or canoeing themselves along the tranquil waters of Katherine Gorge.
Territory highlights
» Take one of the many bushwalks in Nitmiluk National Park and experience the rugged landscapes in the movie. The more adventurous will love the Jatbula Trail.
» Join the local people as they celebrate their culture. Merrepen Arts Festival, Barunga Cultural and Sports Festival, and Walking with Spirits are highlights of the region
» Go on a cultural tour for an insight into Aboriginal culture from the Katherine region
Fast Facts
Released: Febrary 1955
Filmed: Katherine region
Director: Charles Chauvel
Cast
Ngarla Kunoth
Robert Tudawali
Paul Reynell
Betty Suttor
