Ethel and Iris: Carrying the Torch of Heritage

Ethel and Iris Ferdies, sisters from the Palm Island Aboriginal Community, carry the stories and struggles of their family with profound dignity. Ethel, reflecting on her roots, introduces herself as one of 17 siblings, raised by a mother who was part of the Stolen Generations. "Our mother was one of the stolen generation," she recalls, highlighting the deep scars of displacement that marked their family history. Despite these hardships, the bond of family held strong. The Ferdies family was built on hard work and resilience, with Ethel and Iris contributing from a young age to their household. "You can just imagine the hardship that we had to go through," Ethel reflects, painting a picture of a childhood filled with chores rather than play. Yet, it was within these constraints that the sisters learned invaluable lessons from their mother, who was a "deadly cook" and a wellspring of cultural knowledge. Ethel learned from her late-night stories, understanding the importance of passing down traditions and language to future generations. Iris shares similar memories, recalling how their mother would take them camping where she could speak their native language freely, away from the prying eyes of those who enforced the oppressive policies of the time. "That's the only time she could speak their language," Iris remembers, a poignant reminder of the resilience required to preserve their cultural identity. Together, Ethel and Iris embody the spirit of connection and belonging, ensuring that their mother's lessons and love continue to guide and inspire their community.