May 27, 2022
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk unveiled a memorial to First Nations servicemen and women in Brisbane’s Anzac Square on Friday morning.
The bronze memorial was designed by Wakka Wakka artist John Smith Gumbula and Gold Coast-based sculptor Liam Hardy.
It features life-size figures standing on a “Journey Stone”. Navy, Army and Air Force are represented alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander warriors / dancers, depicting a story of embarkation from home via air, land and sea.
The memorial project was funded by Federal, State and local governments as well as philanthropists and private sector organisations, working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Dedicated Memorial Queensland Inc (ATSIDMQI).
The Premier said the service and sacrifice of all Australian military personnel deserved to be honoured with dignity and respect, including the important contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women.
“Right throughout history, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders have served our nation courageously as members of Australia’s armed forces. It’s important their efforts are acknowledged,” the Premier said.
“This memorial will be a permanent reminder of their valour and sacrifice and is an opportunity to commemorate the stories of First Nations servicemen and women.
“It’s another step in our nation’s path to reconciliation and it’s fitting that we’re unveiling this on the first day of this year’s National Reconciliation Week.”
- Related article: Indigenous Monument Planned
from State Library of Queensland on Vimeo
