“Standing beside the silhouette of a Barambah Light Horseman, I honour my father, Vincent Law, who rode into battle for a country that denied him citizenship. Like many Aboriginal soldiers of his time, Vincent fought with courage and loyalty, even as his own people were excluded from the nation’s rights and recognition. In battle, his horse fell on him – an accident that left him partially paralysed on one side.
Still, he returned home with strength, dignity, and silent pride. He raised an incredible family and gave a lifetime of service to the Cherbourg community, showing that leadership is not just found on battlefields, but in homes, schools, and everyday acts of resilience.
I am captured here, proudly wearing one of my father’s medals on the right side of my chest as a quiet but powerful act of remembrance and deep respect. The blue beret is to honour my very first posting to 171 Air Cavalry Flight.
I have tried to carry that legacy forward as a proud Murri man, army veteran, teacher and Murri court Elder. I became the last superintendent of Cherbourg – and the only Aboriginal person ever appointed superintendent of a Queensland settlement. In every role, I fight for fairness, dignity and opportunity for our people.
This portrait honours father and son standing tall against the tide of history, carrying forward a story of sacrifice, service, and enduring pride.”