Don Christophersen talks about hearing stories about World War 2 as a child growing up in Darwin, and that finding bullets, dog tags, and other war debris sparked his interest to find out more. Don shares some of the stories he has come across in his research into Darwin and the Northern Territory during World War 2, including how the Australian defence presence in the Territory brought much improved access to health care for indigenous people through the medical personnel and resources that accompanied the forces for the duration of the War. Don also talks about his mother Jane Christophersen and her experiences of being evacuated to South Australia as a young woman for the duration of the War and her post-war life back in Darwin. Don also speaks about his uncle’s World War 2 experience and pride working with other aboriginal men to help a group of white soldiers build and maintain a remote radar station at Cape Don, and remarks on the strong and respectful relationships that were forged between the soldiers and the aboriginal men at Cape Don.

• Watch Don’s interview at the Darwin Yarn Up;
• Return to the Darwin Yarn Up page.