AustLit

'Long ago European adventurers searched for the 'Terra Australis Incognita' the 'Southern Land'. 'Looking Back Moving Forward' is a response to the invitation from the local Aboriginal people of Queensland, an area once known as the Moreton Bay District to write down their history in the telling, alongside that of the colonists who arrived only recently. This book portrays the remarkable people who have survived, seen wars come and go, overcome obstacles in the face of adversity and witnessed monumental changes in everyday life.' (Publication summary)

On Saturday, August 24, Dr Eve Fesl (Senior Elder) of the Gubbi Gubbi people was presented with "The Resting Place", as a thank-you for her generous contribution. "The Resting Place" has been the result of a genuine endeavour to write a more honest account of a wonderful aspect of local history where the author shown great respect for the customs, and culture of the Indigenous landowners. The author has openly engaged many sources respecting the Indigenous peoples culture, while drawing out information that was viable and accurate. This book is truly worth reading, it will help a person to understand the reality that there was a vibrant, breathing, dynamic culture thriving in Moreton Bay, where people respected and protected their natural environment, including its wildlife and flora that many still do not understand in the way they should. The ancestors of this land have bestowed a responsibility for us all. This book is but a taste of an integral part of Australia's rich history. It is a story of the Indigenous people and the coming together of all Australians as one, sharing their dynamic culture, heritage, traditions and the spiritual link of their ancestral lands. 'The Resting Place' embraces a local history of the traditional lands of the Gubbi Gubbi people and Burpengary Creek in southeast Queensland. Topography, climatic conditions and soil types influence this little stream of clear water that gives life to a rare lowland rainforest riparian ecosystem and is home to a four hundred year old Moreton Bay fig. This inspiring habitat tree grows tall with its branches reaching through the rainforest canopy. Substantial thick, soft, buttressed roots twist and turn anchoring it, creating a mystical, magical resting place. This book is for all Australians and visitors, students, researchers and community representatives. It is for the independent, feisty, and the romantic. Those who have a general interest to enhance their knowledge and understanding of Australia's rich cultural heritage and the uniqueness of this environment will find 'The Resting Place' enlightening.