The quest to discover my true heritage has been full of uncertainty, embarrassment, guilt, and a lack of education. My Aboriginal ancestor, Maggie Jane JOHNSTONE, lived a life of struggles and hardships, with no knowledge of her true heritage, stolen as a little girl. 

 

Maggie was born in Roma, Queensland, in 1866, but there is no official record to support this. She worked as a "Black Tracker" for the Queensland police in Roma when she was at least a teenager, sometime between 1878 and 1888. In 1889, she married George LEONARD in the Rubyvale area, but despite being 23 years old, she was unable to identify her parents.

 

Maggie and George had several children, including Ada and Violet LEONARD, with my family descending from Ada. Ada had 15 children, one of whom was my grandmother, Doreen Rye SMITH. Doreen's sister is Aunty Betty McMahon, who became co-patron of the Sunshine Coast Reconciliation Group Inc.

 

Aunty Betty was a respected Elder who sat on several committees on the Sunshine Coast, known for her tireless work for the community. She was especially remembered for her mentorship and guidance of young people. Aunty Betty was one of the founding Indigenous members of the Murri courts. She was known for her kindness, compassion, and common-sense approach.

 

Having such strong female leaders in my history I now want to learn, grow and contribute the best I can to my community and help others find their voice.