Geoff McMahon

My ancestors, male and female, both were aboard the first penal fleet which arrived in 1788. Banished to a treacherous life in NSW. I could go back to England and demand to be accepted back as an English citizen, but I won’t. I shall let my persecuted origins rest where they lie, for I know that my future is up to me, to make of it what I can. I, who am one of 8 children, would like all of the Black people here in Australia to do the same. Stop feeling sorry for yourself, Stop whining about your past, and build your future. Life is hard for all of us. My grandfather who served in the great war in Galipoli, went to that war with his 3 brothers and only 2 came back. My grandfather told us children Be whatever you want to be, but don’t be lazy.