Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation

Until recently, few Australians were aware that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people served in the First World War. Over 1,000 enlisted, and almost 300 of them were Queenslanders.

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Harry Doyle and Albert Burke in the First World War.

The State Library collection contains stories and references to the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the First World War, both at home in Queensland and serving overseas.

Explore the QANZAC100: Memories for a new generation website for more information.

Download the guide to find research about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander soldiers and their families:

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Resources for researching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in war

The theme for NAIDOC Week 2014 was ‘Serving Country: Centenary and Beyond’ which honoured all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women who have fought in defence of our country.

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Soldier portraits

Many Queensland soldiers of the First World War had their portrait taken at the Enoggera army camp, and then published in pictorial supplement of The Queenslander newspaper. View the soldier portraits of some of Queensland’s Aboriginal servicemen of the First World War.