Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A LAST STAND
The Kalkadoon (also known as Kalkatungu) people of the Mt Isa region in western Queensland were known for
their fierce resistance to colonial expansion. As pastoralism and mining concerns pushed into their country in the
1860s, some of the Kalkadoon initially worked for the settlers as labourers and guides. However, competition for
land and resources eventually led to conflict, and the Kalkadoon waged guerrilla-style warfare against settlers and
their stock. They soon gained a reputation as ferocious warriors who seemingly melted away into the bush. In
1883 they killed five Native Police and a prominent pastoralist - an incident that turned the tide of the conflict
against them.
In September 1884, some 600 Kalkadoon retreated to a defensive site known as Battle Mountain, where they
fought one last battle against the Native Police and armed settlers. Despite heroic resistance, which included a
charge against cavalry positions, the Kalkadoon warriors were mercilessly slain, their spears and clubs no match
for guns. In all, an estimated 900 Kalkadoon were killed between 1878 and 1884.
