In the lead‑up to ANZAC Day, the Indigenous Employment team hosted its annual ANZAC gathering for staff and students, commemorating service and sacrifice while creating space for reflection and learning.
Kylie Blundell presenting her research at the 2025 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Three Minute Thesis.
The event was well attended and featured a moving and informative keynote presentation from University of Queensland (UQ) PhD candidate Kylie Blundell.
Kylie generously shared the history and personal stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander diggers who served in the First World War. Drawing on in‑depth academic research and family histories, her presentation highlighted the resilience, courage and dedication of Indigenous servicemen at a time when their rights and citizenship were severely restricted. Attendees gained insight into both the personal and collective experiences of these men, whose contributions have too often been overlooked.
The presentation resonated deeply with those in attendance, prompting reflection on the importance of uncovering and preserving these histories. As one attendee shared:
‘I’m very appreciative of this research, which is uncovering the true history of Indigenous diggers, and I was particularly moved by the personal stories of these brave Indigenous men in defence of our country.’
As part of the event, Kylie was asked to reflect on the personal and professional significance of her PhD research and the importance of sharing her work with Indigenous audiences.
"On a personal level, I am in awe of these men and inspired by what they achieved during an era of conflict, constriction and contradiction."
"Given the duality of Indigenous lives at the time, volunteering for service in the First World War was a testament to their resilience, their spirit and their sense of duty. I have immense admiration for these men."
"On a professional level, I feel a great responsibility to these Indigenous volunteers, their families and communities to ensure their stories of service and sacrifice are researched with rigour and respect."
"It is my hope that this work honours these men and their contribution to our nation."
Kylie continued to reflect on her personal connection to history and its influence on her work, expressing her shere passion for sharing their experiences.
"Our stories of Indigenous military service have been valued, preserved and communicated within our families for generations. Having Indigenous relatives of my own who served in the First World War, I appreciate how much they endured, and that the war and its aftermath were often not easy for them. And I know this made me protective of their memory."
Kylie emphasised the broader context of her research and its purpose, explaining that it provides the opportunity for deeper understanding and connection.
"My research frames their stories of service, identity, loss and injustice within the social and political environment evolving at the time. This adds context to their service, lives and sacrifice. It is only then that we can truly appreciate what they survived and to understand them as 'men of history' with inspirational narratives.
"To have the opportunity to share their powerful stories with their community is a privilege."
The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging and honouring Indigenous service in Australia’s military history, particularly as the community approaches ANZAC Day. Through rigorous research and respectful storytelling, Kylie Blundell’s work continues to contribute to a deeper, more inclusive understanding of the nation’s past.
