Patrick Riggs’ life has been marked by frequent travels and diverse experiences. Growing up in a family with four children and a pet kangaroo, Patrick spent his childhood moving between locations. His mother, along with her boyfriend Jimmy, took the family on various trips, including a brief stay in Cardwell, Queensland, before returning to Sydney. Living across from his grandmother’s place, Patrick took on his first job in Year 4, working weekends for thirty bob per week. Fifteen years ago, he relocated to the Sunshine Coast to be closer to his daughter.
As a young man, Patrick discovered an old photo of his father, sparking a deep curiosity and a feeling that he might be of Aboriginal descent, though no one had ever confirmed it.
Patrick’s journey took a significant turn when he first encountered Link-Up (Qld) while in hospital. A young hospital worker introduced him to the organisation and its services. Intrigued and feeling a deep-seated intuition about his Aboriginal heritage, Patrick reached out to Link-Up (Qld). This initial contact led to an intake appointment, which he attended with his daughter.
Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Patrick shared, “I just had this feeling that I might be Aboriginal, so I contacted Link-Up (Qld), and they invited me for an intake appointment. My daughter came with me, and that marked the beginning of this significant journey.”
As the day of his ‘Back to Country’ reunion in Mungindi, Queensland approached, Patrick experienced a mix of emotions. Confusion and uncertainty loomed large, as he didn’t know what to expect or how to react. With his son William by his side for support, Patrick travelled to Kamilaroi country for the reunion. His primary aim was to uncover details about his father and understand how he ended up in Sydney.
The reunion was a moving experience for Patrick.
Although it provided some clarity, he was left with lingering questions about his father’s journey and reasons for moving to Sydney. “I had many questions,” Patrick explained, “and it was to find out information about my father and how he ended up in Sydney—all the unknowns about my own history.”
The reunion stirred a desire in Patrick to reconnect further with his roots. He hopes to return to Mungindi in the future, this time on his motorbike and accompanied by his best friend.
“I would like to thank everyone at Link-Up (Qld) – all the research and support staff – for their support and assistance throughout this journey.”
Patrick Riggs
Published 15 October 2024.