Darren Moffitt
“Defence is very tribal in nature, there is rivalry and competition between units, formations, and services…but at the end of…
“Defence is very tribal in nature, there is rivalry and competition between units, formations, and services…but at the end of…
“My experience in the Army Reserve taught me that service knows no boundaries of age or background. It’s about the…
“Stand tall and stand strong.” – Fasheena Young Fasheena Young Wonnarua People (Hunter Valley, NSW) and Papua New GuineaCorporalHuman Resources…
Ethan Moffitt Bidjigal Gweagal of Wollongong of the Eora NationSapperRoyal Australian EngineersAustralian Army…
David Boyd Warrant Officer Class 2Royal Australian Army Ordnance CorpsAustralian Army…
“Worry about your character, not your reputation. Your character is who you are, your reputation is who people think you…
Photograph by Belinda Mason OAM 2024, inkjet on brushed aluminium 60cm x 40cm
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Lance Corporal…
“Life is about facing your challenges and overcoming your fears.” – George Akee George Akee Akee aka Aki Family clan…
“I believe it’s okay to help and assist, through the ADF, for those who are oppressed and need help in…
“Never be afraid of pushing the boundary, nothing changes if nothing changes.” – Alanah Dever Alanah Dever Worimi and WiradjuriCorporalMedicRoyal…
Cody Harris WiradjuriCorporalAustralian Army Photograph by Belinda Mason OAM 2024, inkjet on brushed aluminium 60cm x 40cm…
“Set your goals, make it happen. Only you can make your success happen. Be proud of your achievements.” – Talithia…
“Embrace your heritage, honour your ancestors, and serve your country with pride as an Aboriginal person, for your roots are…
“Service never ends, and Faith is integral to maintaining that Service.” – Paul Payne Paul Payne WiradjurPrivate1st Battalion, Royal Australian…
“The way I am today is because of the Army. I learnt to respect myself, and by respecting yourself, you…
“He who laughs at himself never runs out of things to laugh at – Epictetus, 130 AD.” – Tim Holt…
“I’m a proud Aboriginal man who is passionate to serve and strive for excellence to better myself.” – Emerson Locke…
“Some things happen for a reason, the same as they don’t happen for a reason – and sometimes things need…
“Looking back now, the Army has certainly equipped me to survive in the real world. Serving in the Army fostered…
“Those six years I spent in the Army were the best part of my life. They made me what I…
“What I want other Aboriginal people to understand about loss and grief is that healing must start with the individual…
“I have always been told I was very lucky. I replied, the more I worked the luckier I became.” –…
“Take life seriously, have a crack and don’t be scared to do so! But do not take everything in life…
“Time and tide wait for nobody – It’s a way of thinking to act or do what needs doing now…
“To ignore evil is to be an accomplice of it.” – Trevor Mark Mays Trevor Mark Mays Nation: KulinMob: Yorta…
“When times are tough, and I start to feel depressed, instead of getting more depressed I remember that there is…
“My heritage, my culture and where I am from means the most to me and for me to be able…
“You – must be the change that you want to see in the world.” – Rick Clark OAM Rick Clark…
“Be brilliant at the basics.” – Michael Edwards Michael Edwards MamuWarrant Officer Class OneRegimental Sergeant MajorRoyal Australian Corps of TransportAustralian…
“You understand why you are alive once you learn what you are prepared to die for.” – Kallan Edwards Kallan…
“We all have it in us to do better and be better for ourselves, our family and community.” – Alison…
“I don’t glorify war. I went over there and did the job I had to do. I was just one…
“The hardest thing for me at my age was to grow up without any parents. A lot of my brothers…
“Now more than ever to give appropriate recognition to First Nations veterans, the hardships of the past, and also the…
“Look within for strength, to act with intention for a better tomorrow, to learn from life’s lessons, to face adversity…
“If you want to join the military, you’ll find it’s a good experience. It will be great for you, even…
“You’ve got to live your life to the full every day. Live it to the fullest. You’ve only got one…
“Life is a blessing from your parents. Life is a very valuable asset. Life is about honouring every moment you…
“Go with the flow, embrace the unpredictability, and enjoy the journey.” – Peter Jarvis Peter Jarvis WiradjuMajorRoyal Australian Electrical and…
“My fight today is for my family to get recognition for my great-grand-dad, a Yirrganydji Lore man, King Barron, a…
“I never considered military service a ‘job’. To me, it was a calling and a way of honouring my maternal…
“Remember to be better than you were yesterday, and don’t rely upon others and circumstances to dictate your destiny.” –…
“The truth will set us free.” – Pastor Ray Minniecon Pastor Ray Minniecon Kabi-Kabi and Gurang-Gurang nations (South East Queensland)…
“Our journeys through the past, do not define our future.” – Cody Bradshaw Cody Bradshaw Dunghutti (Mid-North Coast, New South…
“I’m just following the footsteps of giants.” – George Johnson George Johnson Wailwan & Torres Strait IslanderPrivateRoyal Australian Army Ordnance…
Tiarna Leschke PrivateRoyal Australian Corps of TransportAustralian Army…
“Don’t let anything hold you back from following your dreams.” – Zoe Fairweather Zoe Fairweather KamilaroiPrivateRoyal Australian Corps of TransportAustralian…
“If someone needs help, offer your assistance. Be kind and generous with your time and offer it freely.” – Doris…
“Being able to serve my country and protect the land where my people have lived on for thousands of years…
“You can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. Never give up on yourself.” – Tracey Hoffmann Tracey…
“Know your roots, know your people and culture and carry that with you everywhere you go. What you do will…
“It was an honour to serve our country and protect the values that we as a nation hold dear. These…
“Joining the Army at 38, I have found it to be the most rewarding job. I am proud to put…
“Coming from a line of black diggers I always wanted to serve my country. Being in the army, I made…
“During the battle, the last person in the world that you think about is yourself. I had ten men under…
“Following in the footsteps of my uncle, a Rat of Tobruk, was always something that I wanted to do…I couldn’t…
“When I joined the Australian Army, I went to defend this nation, but when home, we need to remember that…
“If you’re Black, you’re Black. Don’t be afraid to embrace your Culture. Accept the opportunity as it comes and give…
Geoff Williams Royal Australian RegimentRoyal Australian Infantry CorpsAustralian Army Medals Defence Long Service Medal with one claspAustralian Defence Medal…
“There ain’t no mountain high enough which will stop you from living your dreams. If you set yourself goals, believe…
“It’s an Honour and Privilege to serve my Country and to put others before self.” – Martin Davies Martin Davies…
“Lean into the hill, let the hill do the work.” – Brian Wyborn Brian Wyborn Torres Strait IslanderOfficer CadetRoyal Australian…
“A rising tide lifts all boats. I believe that if you’re moving up, you should help others do the same.”…
“Joining the Army made me understand that regardless of Race, mateship comes first by embracing and upholding one another as…
“It was a job we were sent out to do, you had to do it. No questions asked. Otherwise, your…
Robert Thatcher CorporalAustralian Army Medals Australian Operational Service Medal Greater Middle EastNational Emergency Medal with clasp Bushfires 19-20Australian Defence MedalNorth…
“Serving my country and culture has been the best decision of my life. Being in the army has a lot…
“I do not see colour, creed or religion. I believe we are all part of some tribe. We shift and…
Luke Mohr WiradjuriPrivateInfantryAustralian Army Medals Australian Active Service Medal – Greater Middle EastNorth Atlantic Treaty Organization Medal with Clasp –…
“Never know if you never have a go, ask Jody my wife.” – Barry Gissell Barry Gissell Murrawarri MobTemporary SergeantAustralian…
“In the Army I made many friends, and the real meaning of mateship was established for me.” – Bob Waterer…
Bryce Barlow Yarrabah, QueenslandRetired Private51st Battalion Royal Queensland RegimentRoyal Australian Infantry Corps…
“I served with pride as many in my family did before me. That tradition of service, despite all that Aboriginal…
“My father and other relatives had served and I decided I wished to do the same. I proudly wear both…
“Never let the fear of failure prevent you from succeeding.” – Colin Watego OAM Colin Watego OAM Bundjalung (Northern Rivers…
“Always be proud of your own achievements but remain humble and supportive so others can achieve their aspirations as well.”…
“We formed a bond, there was no racism in Charlie company, we were a brotherhood and we looked after each…
“If each and everyone of us can contribute to the community, we can make the most of our opportunities and…
“Very honoured; proud to have served both my country and my people, as a way to show respect for the…
“Have been proud of my time in the Army and my achievements and being Aboriginal has shown that we are…
“As I tell my children, ‘Go and find your destiny’.” – Ezra Anu Ezra Anu Torres Strait Islander (Saibai Island)SergeantRoyal…
“Like most Veterans, I answered the call when it was made, and I have no regrets for doing so.” –…
“I believe that the century-old spirit of ANZAC is a modern manifestation of the traditional First Nations spirit of protecting…
“While I was serving the country in Borneo and South Vietnam, the Aboriginal people back home were fighting for my…
“Don’t let anyone or anything hold you back from doing the things you want in life. Be proud of your…
“I think it’s our duty to serve our Country. I come from an Aboriginal family where members have provided service…
“I am proud that I was one of the founding members, and President of the Yarrabah RSL Club, the first…
“Wearing the same uniform as my father is a dream come true. Wearing this uniform and being Indigenous is priceless.”…
“Even though we are diverse, we are in one family.” – John (Jack) Pearson John (Jack) Pearson Yimithurr ManCaptainRoyal Australian…
“Serving country was more of a personal issue of finding one’s way in life, by seeking adventure, the theory if…
“Proud to follow in my father’s footsteps as he was in the Army. I always knew from a young age…
“My unit, 102 Coral was in the Battle of Coral in South Vietnam 12 May – 6 June 1968. I…
“It was my honour to follow in my father’s footsteps and serve my country. I am proud to be part…
John Howell Woolwonga People from the Pine Creek area in the Northern TerritoryWarrant Officer Class One Medals and Awards Australian…
“I got to represent my country twice: in Vietnam and in the Olympics.” – John Kinsela OAM John Kinsela OAM…
“I have to try to right a small wrong from many years ago that happened to these veterans. I believe…
“During high school, when I was younger, I had endless potential, but I never had the drive or the discipline…
“There’s nothing more Sovereign than being Indigenous.” – C.B. McGarrity C.B. McGarrity Biripi DunghuttiCorporalRoyal Australian Corps of Military PoliceAustralian Army…
“Personally I find it rewarding to be able to put the uniform on and carry on the traditions of all…
“When I joined the Army, I was a very young man with a difficult life trajectory, I think I owe…
“They came before us when the country didn’t acknowledge us, but as a race, we excelled as exceptional and feared…
“I loved every minute of my time and wouldn’t change a thing.” – Lincoln Carson Lincoln Carson Wakka Wakka and…
“It is important to know and understand one’s history and build on that strength moving forward.” – Lorraine Hatton OAM…
“Leading a team should be a team effort. You talk to them like you’re a human, not just an officer…
“Respect the dead and fight like hell for the living.” – Michael Markham Michael Markham Jawoyn (Bolmo clan) – Pine…
“One thing I’ve learned in the military is that even though we all wear the green a soldier is never…
“Felt I needed to contribute to our Country. If we could ever build a bridge of reconciliation, it’s where the…
“How will we be remembered in 100 years?” – Norm Newlin Norm Newlin Worimi ManPrivate1st Battalion, Royal Australian RegimentRoyal Australian…
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to have served my country.” – Peter (Wilfred Cecil) Smith Peter (Wilfred Cecil) Smith…
“Most cultures are based around family and that’s what we are, we are family, we are communities. That’s what we’ve…
Raymond Boland Yalata CommunityPrivate25 Australian Works CompanyAustralian Army Medals Australia Service Medal 1939-1945War Medal 1939-1945Defence Medal “I was born at…
“One of the best and enjoyable experiences I’ve ever had. Sad I couldn’t join regular services. It was my duty…
Reverend Michael Stanley Connolly Larrakia, Queensland (Stanley Michael Connolly)Retired SergeantRoyal Australian Infantry CorpsAustralian ArmyVietnam Veteran Reverend Michael Stanley Connolly served…
“In 2014, Yarrabah became the first Indigenous community in Australia to establish an RSL chapter. We paved the way for…
“I went forward to check this place out, and when I was moving forward, I tripped a mine, and it…
“Very proud to have done my bit for my Country.” – Sean Garvie Sean Garvie Gunggari, South West QueenslandPrivate2nd Battalion,…
“Alone, we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Shane Cox Shane Cox Kamilaroi ManWarrant Officer…
“I loved being in the army and the camaraderie. I still am in contact with friends I made while serving…
“I was the first Aboriginal to sign up from South Australia and go to Korea. That’s a long, long time…
“I was proud to serve as an Indigenous Infantryman in Vietnam.” – Steve Collins Steve Collins Goreng Goreng (Eidsvold, Queensland)Private4th…
Sterling (Sonny) Minniecon Kabi Kabi and Gurang Gurang (South East Queensland)Lance Corporal1st and 7th Battalions, Royal Australian RegimentRoyal Australian Infantry…
Tony Connolly Retired PrivateNorforce (North West Mobile Force)Regional Force Surveillance GroupAustralian Army Reserve The North-West Mobile Force (NORFORCE) was formed…
“I feel very proud to have served my country, and it was, in fact, an honour. I learnt new skills…
“We never asked to go to Vietnam, the Government sent us. We didn’t defend our country, we fought for each…
“Lost a good mate at Long Tan – Paul Large. We thought the battle was over, just walking around afterwards…
“Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and discover what you are capable of and what kind…
“I volunteered for national service and joined in July 1967 – 1969.” – Colin D Cahill Colin D Cahill Umbugarla,…
“All my family worked on cattle stations, and when I was 17, a friend of my family who served in…
“The military in which I served was an equal opportunity organisation. We all wore green with no racism.” – Frank…
“Serving my country has always been in my mind since the return of my uncles after WW2. This land is…
“Service comes in many forms, it isn’t about rank or position but more about value and purpose.” – Brigadier (Rtd),…
“The heart of my service as an Army Chaplain, hinges on my calling to serve God. As a Proud Wiradjuri…
“The person I am today is due to my service for this country which I love and respect for life.”…
“Be prepared to be pushed beyond your physical and mental limits. If you can handle that, then the positives, far…
Dean Dobson Australian Army Medals Australian Service Medal with 2 claspsAustralian Defence MedalTimor Leste Solidarity Medal…
“It changes you definitely, but I found myself having post-traumatic stress syndrome. I reckon one of the ways I helped…
“The Army made me a better person, and if I had to do it again, I would.” – Gilbert Green…
Jeff McCormack AboriginalSergeant3rd Battalion Royal Australian RegimentAustralian Infantry CorpsAustralian Army Medals General Service Medal 1962 with clasp Malay PeninsulaAustralian Service…
“The motto for Transport Corps is ‘Par Oneri’ – You have to be equal to the task ahead. Understand what…
“I have failed so many times in so many ways, including my four attempts at Year 12 before achieving the…
“My father was in the First World War; my brother was in the Second World War and Korea. I have…
“Don’t be afraid to learn new things, everyone makes mistakes, and we can learn from them. Never give up, believe…
“I never had the honour to meet my father. He died a soldier, a long way from his home, when…
“Respect for Elders is the most important thing. You must have respect for your Elders because they are the ones…
“I had always lived and worked in the bush. I had never lived in a house with running water or…
“To serve my country is to continue the long history of my family’s service to this country in all conflicts…
“I don’t see serving my country as a task or a job but an honour.” – Terry Walker Terry Walker…
“Life’s hardships should not be the things that define us. All people have different coping mechanisms, that said, these experiences…
“I enjoyed the discipline and friendship in military life and nursing.” – Shirly Mooney OAM Shirly Mooney OAM Retired Army…
“As we work together across generations, let’s not forget that our shared dedication to these principles contributes to creating a…
“The heart of my service as an Army Chaplain, hinges on my calling to serve God. As a Proud Wiradjuri…
“I am grateful that I had the chance to serve and be a part of something outside of myself.” –…
“Very happy to be involved.” – Ian Thompson Ian Thompson Wiradjuri Warrant Officer Class Two4/3 Battalion Royal NSW RegimentRoyal Australian…
“The Army opened up a lot of doors. It gave me a war service loan to buy a home. I…
“Everyone who has served in the ADF has left a legacy for their children, grandchildren and future generations.” – Arthur…
“Life is not equal until you find a place that lets you be equal.” – Rex Solomon Rex Solomon Ngarigo…
Kirra Grimes Bunuba and Naaguja Yamatji People (Western Australia)PrivateRoyal Australian Corps of SignalsAustralian Army Medals Australian Defence Medal Other Serving…
“Joining the Army is not about getting a job, it is about learning and growing as an Aboriginal man.” –…
“It is the men with whom I served that I will always remember above all else. I learnt from each…
“My service comes behind generations of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait ancestors who have protected country during times of peace…
“My commitment to serving my country was fuelled by the strength of my ancestors, especially my Nanna, who faced tremendous…
Kieren Marr Royal Australian Army Ordnance CorpsAustralian Army 25 April 2015 More Serving Country images of Kieren Marr…
“We are modern warriors with Traditional values. We are here walking in the footsteps and building on the shoulders of…
“Be proud of who you are, and always stand up for what is right.” – Erin Teague-Suradi Erin Teague-Suradi Pitjantjatjara/Yankunytjatjara…
“Eyes Wide Open.” – Dennis Maher Dennis Maher Warrwa People, Kimberley SergeantRoyal Australian Electrical and Mechanical EngineersAustralian Army Medals Australian…
“He who laughs at himself never runs out of things to laugh at – Epictetus, 130 AD.” – Timothy Holt…
“True leaders move before the crowd does.” – Gordon Thomas Watts Gordon Thomas Watts Dharug People – Western Sydney Warrant…