Thelma Chilly

Thelma Chilly, is a proud multi-clan nation woman with ties to the Wiradjuri, the Mutti Mutti, Watiwati, Wamba-wamba, Barapa Barapa and Yorta Yorta nations. In this submission she wants to tell her story, about her ties to religion and how colonisation has impacted community. She shares her story of growing up in Robinvale, recalling fond childhood memories of church and community life but later learning of the harsh realities and mistreatment her community faced. She emphasises the importance of truth-telling about the mistreatment in missions and institutions.