We Are Going

poetry by Noonuccal

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July 16, 2026

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We Are Going is the first published book of poetry by an Australian Aboriginal woman, Oodgeroo Noonuccal (formerly Kath Walker). Published in 1964, it is considered the first of the modern Aboriginal protest writings.1

Noonuccal's poetry is characterized by its directness and accessible style, often employing simple rhyme schemes and allusions. Her work is appreciated for its heartfelt and moving portrayal of the dispossession and plight of Aboriginal people, as well as their future aspirations. The collection reflects the ancient customs practiced on Stradbroke Island, where Noonuccal was raised.1

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Australian literature
Literature from 1970 to 2000
…her first volume of poetry, We Are Going, in 1964. Mudrooroo Narogin (Colin Johnson, whose Aboriginal identity, however, was questioned) published his first novel, Wild Cat Falling, in 1965. Jack Davis wrote several acclaimed plays. Sally Morgan’s autobiography, My Place (1987), is a moving account of her discovery of her…
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…her first volume of poetry, We Are Going, in 1964. Mudrooroo Narogin (Colin Johnson, whose Aboriginal identity, however, was questioned) published his first novel, Wild Cat Falling, in 1965. Jack Davis wrote several acclaimed plays. Sally Morgan’s autobiography, My Place (1987), is a moving account of her discovery of her…
Read More

Oodgeroo Noonuccal
Her first volume of poetry, We Are Going (1964), is the first book by an Aboriginal woman to be published.
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Her first volume of poetry, We Are Going (1964), is the first book by an Aboriginal woman to be published.
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