I can't seem to find information [due to crap/slow computer] on why the freedom rides had a significance for the aborginals and why.

Bahh please helppp?

According to the NSW Dept of Aboriginal Affairs (http://www.daa.nsw.gov.au/daanews/3/Freedomride.html), it "...helped awaken mainstream Australia of the 1960s to the level of discrimination and injustice endured by Aboriginal people..."

And for more, with references, see here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_rides).