‘Extraordinary and often unacknowledged’ First Nations war efforts recognised

The war efforts of Indigenous Australians for more than a century are “extraordinary and often unacknowledged”.

Indigenous servicemen and women have been honoured at the Shrine of Remembrance in recognition of their war efforts spanning more than a century.

The Victorian war memorial on Tuesday hosted the annual Aboriginal Remembrance Service, with a smoke ceremony and RAAF flyover followed by wreath laying and an ensemble concert during National Reconciliation Week.

First Nations people have taken part in conflicts involving Australia for more than a century despite not being allowed to enlist until the Second World War.

But their service has only been acknowledged since the late Aunty Dorothy “Dot” Peters campaigned for their contributions to be recognised in 2006.

First Peoples have participated in Australian conflicts for more than a century. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie

The service has been held every year since 2007.

Honouring fallen and currently serving Aboriginal men and women was a mark of respect, according to Taungurung elder Aunty Loraine Padgham.

“Respect is core to Aboriginal culture and the respect that the Shrine is showing to our fallen and serving Aboriginal servicemen and women by supporting the Remembrance Service is recognised and warmly welcomed by our community,” Ms Padgham said.

The memorial event acts as a mark of respect for fallen and current Indigenous service men and women. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie

Shrine chief executive Dean Lee said it was a proud moment for the iconic memorial venue.

“The Shrine is proud to host the Aboriginal Remembrance Service honouring the extraordinary and often unacknowledged service of First Peoples servicemen and women,” Mr Lee said.

“Australia‘s first official ceremony in 2007 was championed by Yarra Yarra elder, the late Aunty Dot Peters AM and held at the Shrine.

“It is now an important day of commemoration and ceremony in the Shrine’s calendar, allowing healing, acknowledgment and remembrance.”