Elder Ethel Robinson: A Journey of Resilience and Heritage

Elder Ethel Robinson, a distinguished member of the Palm Island community, shares a poignant narrative of resilience and cultural heritage. Her story begins with her father, Tom, a proud Southie Aboriginal, and her mother, a descendant of the durable tribe with a rich tapestry of Malayan and Chinese ancestry. Ethel recounts the harrowing journey of her ancestors, forcibly removed from their homelands and enduring unimaginable hardships. "They removed them from Haton," she recalls, describing the brutal march under the watchful eyes of police and black trackers. Those who faltered were left behind, "or they'll smash your brains and whatever," showcasing the merciless reality of their displacement.

Despite these adversities, Ethel's mother emerged with a tenacity that would shape the future of her family. Arriving at Palm Island as a young girl, she faced new challenges, working from a tender age. "She had to work," Ethel emphasizes, noting the lack of formal education and the need to adapt quickly. The missionaries, "Inland Aboriginal Inland Mission," attempted to introduce schooling, but survival took precedence over literacy.

In Palm Island, Ethel's mother found employment with doctors, first with Dr. Gillian and later Dr. Davison. Despite her inability to read or write, she became "a very deadly cook just by watching how white woman done anything," a testament to her innate talent and determination. Her culinary skills, described by Ethel as "gifted from God," sustained her family, marking her as a pillar of strength and resourcefulness.

Ethel's narrative is not just a recounting of past hardships but a celebration of the indomitable spirit of her ancestors. Their legacy is one of resilience, a testament to the power of cultural heritage and the enduring bonds of family. Her story is a reminder of the struggles faced by her community but also a beacon of hope and empowerment for future generations.