In mid-1847, James Mark and his family moved to Goodar station, about 45 km north-west of modern-day Goondiwindi. Soon after, the Bigambul murdered James’ son and mutilated his body.  James Mark put a gang of stockman together and they roamed the area attacking local Aboriginal people.  In June 1848, Mark’s gang attacked Aboriginal people on Umbercollie and murdered one woman. More murders followed.