Aboriginal women tell their stories in new book
The unique historical perspective of Aboriginal women along the lower Richmond River is captured in a new book, published by the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC).
DECC Aboriginal Heritage Conservation Officer, Ashley Moran, said that the book tells the stories of 12 Aboriginal women from Cabbage Tree Island and Ballina.
“Each of the women tell stories about their childhood memories and working lives as domestic servants and factory workers in the inner city suburbs of Brisbane and Sydney,” Mr Moran said.
“These accounts describe community spirit between the various families that once lived on the lower Richmond River, during a time when life was hard and limited for Aboriginal people.”
Gloria Kelly, one of the women interviewed for the book, says: “What I remember the most about growing up on Cabbage Tree Island was the kinship, caring and sharing.”
Mr Moran said: “There are stories about how their parents protected them from the realities of the outside world, keeping them safe during a time when the Aboriginal Welfare Board was a constant threat to Aboriginal families living on reserves and missions across NSW.”
Mavis Davies, another woman featured in the book, said: “It used to be lovely — you know, we would all get together and sing. We were a real happy family and loving family.”
“Times have changed for these women but their memories, love and knowledge will now be passed on for all to appreciate,” Mr Moran said.
The launch of the Ballina/Cabbage Tree Island Aboriginal Women’s Heritage Book will be at 10.30am on Wednesday 16 January 2008 in the Richmond Room Ballina (behind the Library and Tourist Information Centre). Everyone is welcome.
