"Remembering Uncle Teddy Briscoe: A Family Tribute"

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To our family, near and far, we come together in spirit today to honour and remember our Uncle Teddy Briscoe. He was more than an uncle—he was a brother, a father figure, a mentor, and a pillar of family in Pulardi, Northern Territory.

Uncle Teddy’s life stories as an Indigenous stockman painted vivid pictures of the past—of vast musters, rugged landscapes, and the challenges of the land. Through his words, he imparted a deeper understanding of the vital role Indigenous men and women played in shaping Australia’s pastoral history. His stories were more than memories; they were lessons that bind us to our roots and remind us of the strength and resilience that run through our veins.

He was the last of Friday's sons to pass, leaving behind only one surviving sibling, Aunty Patsy Morton (née Briscoe). Over the years, one by one, his brothers and sisters departed, but their legacy lives on in us.

Uncle Teddy’s life was about more than work—it was about survival, connection, and pride. He showed us that our people’s presence in the cattle industry wasn’t just about making a living; it was about preserving our cultural identity, maintaining community ties, and honouring our ancestral lands. He instilled in us a deep appreciation for our heritage and a sense of duty to carry it forward.

As an elder in Pulardi, Uncle Teddy was a beacon of wisdom. He bore the weight of our shared history with grace and shared his knowledge freely, ensuring that future generations would understand the struggles and triumphs of those who came before. He reminded us to honour our elders, to listen, and to learn from their experiences.

His legacy lives on in us. Many in our family continue the traditions he loved, working with horses and cattle, and keeping alive the skills and knowledge passed down through generations. Pulardi remains our anchor, a testament to our deep connection to the land and to one another.

Uncle Teddy’s impact on our family is immeasurable. He enriched our lives with his wisdom. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit lives on in each of us. Let us honour him by upholding the values he cherished—by strengthening our family bonds, preserving our culture, and passing on his stories to future generations. He may be gone, but his love and legacy will forever guide us.

Citations:

[1]https://aso.gov.au/titles/documentaries/teddy-briscoe/

https://www.nfsa.gov.au/collection/curated/asset/99484-teddy-briscoe-napperby

[2] https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/getmedia/a321de20-911c-448b-8afa-f29bc82f16e6/Black-list.pdf