In the summer of 1969, a young Aboriginal boy named Willie lives in the idyllic coastal town of Broome, Western Australia. He enjoys life with his mother and dreams of a future with his childhood sweetheart, Rosie. However, his religious mother sends him off to a Catholic boarding school in Perth, aiming to secure a better future for him. Unhappy and feeling out of place, Willie grows increasingly discontented with the strict and oppressive environment of the school, leading him to escape and embark on a journey back home to Broome.

On his way, Willie meets an assortment of eccentric and colorful characters, including the carefree Uncle Tadpole, a runaway hippie couple, and Father Benedictus, the headmaster from whom he fled. This journey becomes a voyage of discovery, as Willie navigates through various mishaps and adventures, ultimately finding a deeper connection to his Aboriginal heritage and culture. Throughout his travels, the importance of belonging, freedom, and self-discovery intertwine, guiding Willie towards an understanding of who he truly is and where he belongs.