Bush Mechanics

This off-beat series follows the exploits of the Bush Mechanics, a group of engaging Aboriginal characters, as they travel through central Australia. In each episode, the Bush Mechanics from the remote Warlpiri community of Yuendumu are presented with a new set of challenges - catching a car thief, getting a nephew out of jail, racing to an outback rock concert and travelling thousands of miles to gather pearl shells for a rainmaking ceremony. As they travel through the desert in their clapped-out vehicles, they solve multiple car problems with wacky and inventive bush repair techniques. Featured characters include Jack Jakamarra, an Aboriginal elder who introduces the episodes with recollections of his first strange encounters with white people and their ways, and Jupurrula, the magic mechanic who appears out of nowhere to help the Bush Mechanics when they get into real car trouble. A blend of documentary and drama with anecdotes of life in the bush, each of the four episodes illuminates a particular aspect of Warlpiri life from gathering bush tucker and living in a humpy to football and rock and roll. Combining adventure, magic realism and a distinctive brand of indigenous humour, the series provides a unique insight into both contemporary and traditional Aboriginal culture. (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)