Geoffrey Shafer qualified as an electrical engineer and worked for the Department of Civil Aviation for a short period from 1968 to 1970. In June 1970 he was sent on a trip to Balgo Hills and Gibb River to install non-directional beacons for commercial aircraft.

This trip involved camping out and sleeping under the stars. Their camp was located near the Gibb River Station, and they were only there for approximately ten days. On the last day, an Aborigine walked into their camp and presented Mr Shafer with the painting. He was unsure why it was given to him, possibly because of the respect he showed the Aborigines during his short stay. Shortly after this, Mr Shafer left the DCA, moving to Perth and then Port Hedland, where he bought...