Various 1
Who is the narrator of Deadly, Unna?
The story is narrated by Gary “Blacky” Black.
Where is the novel set?
In a small coastal town (the Port) in South Australia.
What is Blacky’s nickname and why?
“Blacky,” because his surname is Black.
Who is Dumby Red?
Indigenous Australian and Blacky’s teammate on the footy team.
What divides the Port and the Point?
The Port is the Anglo-Saxon area, and the Point is where the Indigenous community lives.
What major event is upcoming?
The local football grand final.
Why does Blacky feel guilty about racist graffiti?
He didn’t write it, but he didn’t remove it—he feels complicit.
How do Blacky’s attitudes change after befriending Dumby?
He begins to recognise racial divisions and questions his town’s beliefs.
What was the Thumper Tackle?
A dangerous tackle during the grand final game that injured a player.
What does the front bar vs back bar symbolise?
It symbolises racial segregation.
Why is the grand final compared to the SA Tidy Towns competition?
It shows how much the town values footy—they treat it like the major yearly event.
How does Phillip Gwynne use language to reflect setting?
He uses Australian colloquialisms to evoke rural voices.
What prompts Blacky to visit the Point?
His friendship with Dumby.
How does racial tension appear in the novel?
Through overheard racist comments from adults in the community e.g. Pub.
What role does family play in Blacky’s life?
His family supports footy and reflects mainstream Port values.
What year was the book adopted into a film?
2002
What two awards did the novel win?
The Children’s Book of the Year (Older Readers) and the Victorian Premier’s Prize (both in 1999).
What broad theme does the novel address?
It explores racism, relationships and rural Australia.
Why is footy so important in the Port?
It’s a central part of community identity and pride.
How does Blacky feel at the Dumby's funeral?
He feels conspicuous at first, but then accepted—he’s no longer an outsider.
What does the grand final awards night symbolise?
It's a realisation that confronts Blacky to take a stand against racism in the community.
What time period is the novel set?
1970s
Who is Mr Robertson?
Blacky’s football coach.
What is one of the special qualities that Blacky's Mum has?
What year was the book published?
1998