Proud Race DayFebruary 13th 2013

Hannah LovettHannah Lovett was born 1855 and died in 1946 at 89 years of age. She was a member of the Gunditjmara Community.She and her husband James raised six sons and 4 grandsons who defended Australia in two world wars.She fought for the equality of returned Aboriginal soldiers. She stood up against the Government when they refused to give accommodation to returned war veterans.On 31st May 2000, Canberra’s tallest building in Woden was officially renamed Lovett Tower by the Governor General. This was to honour the Lovett family and all Aboriginal veterans and their families.She was awarded a medal for her contribution. It showed a silver star for each active serviceman.

I feel proud today because

She stood up for what was not fair and refused to move away – Chanlyn.

The Aboriginals helped in the war and helped to defend our country – Samuel

Lester Marks Harradine1920-2010

Lester Marks is a Wotjobaluk man whose family lived in Dimboola, Victoria.He was called up and enlisted in the Australian Imperial Forces (AIF) in 1940. He was sent to Darwin in January 1942 with the 19 Machine Gun Regiment, and was there for the first Japanese bombing of the town on 19 February 1942. When Lester came home from war he was a member of the Returned and Services League (RSL) and became actively involved with Legacy .He worked for the widows who lived in Dimboola and helped them after their husbands passed away. Lester had a wife Leila and four children. Lester was a local sporting champion and lifelong advocate of grassroots involvement -He often gave talks in schools sharing with others the stories of his ancestors. Lester Harradine loved his town, his traditional country and his community. His actions were guided by a desire to serve all three.

I feel proud today because

He is sharing his ancestors stories with others – TysonThey have helped to given Aboriginals respect. Now we don’t judge people by the colour of their skin because we’re all the same on the inside. - Seb