Precursor heralding Frontier Wars Commemorations on Anzac Day in Canberra

Precursor to the Frontier Wars commemoration marches

September 1991 Anzac Parade, Canberra

In early September 1991 Kevin Gilbert was photographed by Richard Briggs against the background of the Australian War Memorial. He carries a cross in almost Christ like manner as he walks towards Anzac Parade. However it is unlikely that thissymbolism was Christian. Gilbert’s creation spirit was Baiame. Rather the cross was generally symbolic of the sacrifice of the Aboriginal inhabitants of Australia during more than 200 years of undeclared war against invasion and of the ongoing suffering of his people.

Gilbert himself said at the time: I represent Aboriginal people who have fought with honour and given their lives for justice and for the land - as none have done for so long as my people. This is a memorial to those who have fought and died and continue to die in the continuing massacre against us.

Interview with Amanda Ulhmann, Canberra Times 3 September 1991