On Tuesday May 31, Victorians, including those from Melbourne’s north, paid tribute to the thousands of Aboriginal men and women who have served or are currently serving in the Australian Defence Force.
The seventeenth annual Victorian Aboriginal Remembrance Service marked a day for reflection on the sacrifice of those men and women whose service was previously not acknowledged in traditional Anzac commemorations.
Elder Aunty Dot Peters first initiated the service in 2006, to honour the Aboriginal Victorians who have served in every conflict and peace keeping mission involving the Australian military for more than a century.
The service is held annually during reconciliation week at the Shrine of Remembrance.
This year also recognised 100 years of service from the Royal Australian Air Force in 2021 and the sacrifices of Aboriginal Air Force people.
Victorian Aboriginal affairs minister Gabrielle Williams said the service is an opportunity for people to recognise the service and sacrifice of Aboriginal Victorians who have proudly served Australia.
“Recognising and understanding the histories, achievements and immense sacrifices of First Nations Victorians in
all fields of service is an important step towards reconciliation,” Ms Williams said.
Veterans minister Shaun Leane said the day was an important opportunity for us to reflect upon the strength and resilience of the thousands of Aboriginal service people.
“We owe a great debt of gratitude to Aboriginal veterans, their families and communities, and today we honour their sacrifice.”
