Coonardoo weaves a complex tapestry of life on Wytaliba, a secluded cattle station in the stark landscape of North West Australia. The story spans several decades, capturing the dynamic relationships between the Aboriginal community and their white employers. Central to this narrative is the poignant and silent love between Coonardoo, an Aboriginal woman, and Hugh Watt, the son of the station's owner.

A World Divided

Set against the harsh backdrop of the Australian outback, the novel begins with Coonardoo, a young and graceful Aboriginal girl, learning the ways of a housemaid under the guidance of the formidable widow, Bessie Watt. Coonardoo sits under the bushes, singing an ancient song about kangaroos, suggesting a life deeply intertwined with nature. From childhood, Coonardoo and Hugh share a bond as they play and ride together, seemingly as equals. Yet, upon Hugh's return from his education, the social divide becomes starkly apparent: he is the white master, and she the black servant.

Unspoken Bonds

Coonardoo's loyalty to Hugh remains unwavering, despite her marriage to Warieda, a notable tribesman, with whom she has children. While for Coonardoo, her love for Hugh is intrinsic, for Hugh, such love crosses societal boundaries he dares not breach. After Bessie Watt's passing, Hugh finds himself engulfed in desolation. In accordance with tribal customs, Warieda sends Coonardoo to comfort Hugh, and it is during this encounter that the two lovers come together, an act that Hugh later regrets, while Coonardoo embraces as natural.

Secrets and Repercussions

The union results in the birth of Winni, Hugh's son. Though Hugh is married to Mollie, he keeps this truth hidden, even as he harbors a hidden pride for the boy. The tribe, unaware of the connection between intimacy and conception, accepts Winni as a natural miracle. Over time, Hugh's marriage to Mollie deteriorates, and she eventually discerns the truth about Winni's parentage. Mollie demands Coonardoo's dismissal, but when Hugh refuses, she leaves him, taking their daughters.

A Broken and Unfulfilled Connection

Following Warieda's death, it seems as though fate has aligned to finally bring Hugh and Coonardoo together. Hugh invites her into his home as a servant, providing her with comfort, yet he refrains from deepening their relationship further. Coonardoo, bewildered by this perceived rejection, struggles to understand Hugh’s internal conflict and societal constraints.

The Climax of Tragedy

Hugh's internalized beliefs against racial mixing are exacerbated by the mocking of Sam Geary, a neighboring farmer with a dismissive attitude toward Aboriginal women. The story reaches a tragic height when, in Hugh’s absence, Geary attempts to seduce Coonardoo. Overcome by loneliness and desire, Coonardoo relents. Upon returning, Hugh learns of the encounter and reacts with furious violence, a moment of intense drama that sees him banishing her after a brutal confrontation. In his wrath, he accidentally drags her across a fire, leaving her gravely burned.

Loss and Realization

Devastated and bewildered by her exile, Coonardoo vanishes. Hugh’s pride prevents him from seeking her out. Years later, he learns of her decline, seeing her reduced to soliciting at ports. This revelation forces him to confront the devastation he has wrought in both their lives. The once-thriving Wytaliba falls into disrepair without Coonardoo's presence, her spirit having been its cornerstone. Eventually, Hugh is compelled to sell the station to Geary and embark on a new journey.

The Circle of Life

The story concludes where it began, with Coonardoo beneath the bushes singing her song. She returns to a desolate Wytaliba to die, the melody fading with her final breath. This poignant end encapsulates the cycle of life and the enduring connection to the land, despite the heartache and tragedy that has unfolded.