Pemulwuy: The Warrior Who Rose in Defence of His People.

As British colonisation expanded across Eora Country in the late 18th century, so too did the violence, displacement, and destruction inflicted on Aboriginal communities. In response to these growing attacks on his people’s rights and way of life, Pemulwuy, a respected Bidjigal man of the Eora Nation, took a stand.

In May 1792, he led his first recorded raid at Prospect, launching what would become a decade-long resistance campaign against the colonial presence around Sydney. These weren’t random attacks—they were acts of calculated resistance, defending land, culture, and kin from an invading force.

Pemulwuy’s deep cultural authority as a Carradhy (a spiritual man and healer) empowered him to lead, and his knowledge of the land made him a formidable opponent. Between 1792 and his death in 1802, he led numerous raids on farms and outposts, targeting those who had taken or desecrated Aboriginal land. Colonial records noted his boldness—he survived multiple gunshot wounds and jailings, only to return time and again to the fight.

His refusal to be broken by bullets, chains or bounty turned him into a legend. To the settlers, he was feared. To his people, he was a hero. Tragically, in 1802, Pemulwuy was shot and killed. His head was taken and sent to England—never returned, despite calls from his descendants and Aboriginal leaders.

Today, Pemulwuy is remembered not just as a warrior, but as a symbol of resistance, pride, and unyielding connection to Country. His legacy reminds us that sovereignty was never ceded—and that the fight for justice began long before modern Australia was born.