Obituary: Billy Marshall-Stoneking – these were the good times

William Marshall hauled a new name from his family past to become Bill Marshall- Stoneking, and ultimately Billy, to create the rhythm by which he is called.
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Image: as stark as you can get it, Billy Marshall-Stoneking’s words to the world.

Billy Marshall-Stoneking, who died last weekend at the age of 68, was a charismatic and controversial figure. He was an American fascinated by tribal cultures who came to Australia as a young school teacher, moved to Papunya and absorbed himself in that edge between Indigenous and invasive Australia in traditional country over the next four years. 

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David Tiley was the Editor of Screenhub from 2005 until he became Content Lead for Film in 2021 with a special interest in policy. He is a writer in screen media with a long career in educational programs, documentary, and government funding, with a side order in script editing. He values curiosity, humour and objectivity in support of Australian visions and the art of storytelling.