“My name is Kelsey Strasek-Barker. Grew up in lightning Rodge NSW, but moved to Tamworth in2003 and lived here for 12years. I am Murrawari Gamilaroi Yorta Yorta ( and also Wiradjuri on my fathers side) Growing up I learnt the traditional Yuwalaaraay/ Gamilaraay out at Lightening Ridge since I was 5 years old from my mum Priscilla. My nan and pop, June Barker nee Ferguson and Roy Barker devoted their to preserving and carrying on the culture they learnt growing up. My poppy Roy grew up on the Brewarrina Mission where he learnt to make traditional artifacts from the last full blood Aboriginals on the mission. He was a hard working man and his knowledge and teachings are now passed onto my dad Tom. The many stories my nan and pop told my cousins, sister and I will remain with us forever. My nan was also a dreamtime storyteller and always told us stories growing up. They were both beautiful, unique, incredible amazing people who I have been blessed to have grown up learning my culture and too always be proud and stand up for what you believe in just like they did. I hope to do, achieve many more great things and to pass on to younger generations what I have learnt. may they rest in Paradise.”
– Kelsey Strasek-Barker, Murrawari/Gamilaroi/Yorta Yorta/Wiradjuri.