In a historic first, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People were represented in Hobart's ANZAC Day march.
Kicking off at 11:00am in the city, the annual ANZAC Day celebrations featured an Aboriginal flag, borne by First Nations locals.
Elder and campaigner Aunty Wendal Pitchford has been advocating for the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander marchers for many years.
This year her work paid off, as she received a formal invitation from RSL Tasmania to be involved.
"It's the first time that we walked up that street," she said smiling.
"It's worn me out!"
Marching behind the banner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans and Families, Aunty Wendal marched through city streets with her mob.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander marchers at Hobart ANZAC day celebrations Source: Sarah Maunder
Community members paid homage to Indigenous servicemen who fought on foreign soil, and for those who fought in the Frontier Wars, including Tasmania's Black War.
The Black War took place from the mid-1820s until 1832 across the island. A series of violent conflicts, it's believed that 200 settlers and between 600 and 900 Tasmanian Aboriginals were killed.
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What are the Frontier Wars?
Aunty Wendal said it was a very proud moment local mob to honour those that came before.
“We're doing the walk for our ancestors who went to war, and for [all] our ancestors as well," she said.
“My heart was so full, I have thousands of ancestors behind me and with us.”
Aunty Wendal has also advocated for a dedicated memorial in recognition of the Black War and frontier conflicts across the nation.
Aunty Wendal (middle) marching at Hobart ANZAC Day in for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People Source: Sarah Maunder
After years of campaigning, plans are in motion to have the memorial installed in Hobart, with RSL Tasmania's endorsement.
Speaking to NITV News last year, Aunty Wendal said it was something she never thought would be achieved in her lifetime.
"It's overwhelming really. It's been my baby for a few years now, so I contemplated on that a little bit," she said.
"It makes my heart warm and glad for my people, my ancestors and my community. It's a healing process, so it's going to be wonderful."
