" During the late 1840s regular rowing contests were held between the south Brisbane and north Brisbane Aborigines and also between blacks and whites. These were run from the sandy beach (end of Montague road) to what is now Gardens Point and were written up in great detail in the sports pages. The Moreton Bay Courier of 29 January 1848 mention Gulpin and Wallaby Joe beating Jack and Moonbeam in the 7th race. The next race, between Aboriginal-manned four –oared canoes, was judged the race of the day. Amid much cheering from the crowd, the Amity Point team won the prize of two pounds ten shillings (about $200 today). The 1860 regatta celebrating the first anniversary of separation as a colony included another all change, the prizes were flour and tobacco for first, sugar for second and tobacco for third. Rowing had become the chief inter-racial sport, with Aboriginal teams the overwhelming winners. Eventually they were barred, on the grounds that as employees of the Customs department, the crewmen were professionals and therefore disqualified from competition".

"Where Aboriginal Australians have been included in the life of Australia they have made remarkable contributions. They have shaped our identity. We should never forget – they have helped build this nation. And if we have a sense of justice, as well as common sense, we will forge a new partnership".