Walking in Their Footsteps: Yvette Crombie’s reunion story
I was born in Mt Isa, Queensland, always aware that there were parts of my identity I did not fully understand. I grew up with a strong sense of family but there were silences too, gaps in our story that I could not quite explain. Over time, I started to feel a pull to learn more about my roots, particularly my Aboriginal heritage. I wanted to know who I came from and where I belonged.
My family was directly impacted by past government policies of forced removal. When my mother was a child, her own mother passed away, leaving her father unable to care for the three younger children on his own. As a result, my mother and her siblings were removed and placed in an orphanage. This separation caused lasting pain and disconnection not just for her but for all of us. It broke family bonds and made it harder for us, the next generation, to fully understand where we came from. The effects of that removal have been felt across our family ever since.
I came to Link-Up (Qld) with a deep desire to reconnect with my culture and to understand where I come from. One of my main hopes was to find out what my mob and totem are. I wanted that cultural connection, to know my Country, my people, and the spiritual links that tie us to land and story.
Unfortunately, because we have not been able to find exactly where my great-great-grandmother was from, I have not been able to find my tribal group or totem. That has been hard. It is painful knowing that because of the gaps in records and the history of removal, I cannot fully claim that part of my identity yet. But this journey has still brought me closer to understanding my family’s resilience, and it has made me even more determined to keep looking and honouring their story.
The information Link-Up (Qld) provided was life-changing. For the first time, I had names, places, and real stories to connect with. Learning about my ancestors and their journeys made everything feel more real and meaningful. It gave me a sense of identity and pride and helped me understand that I come from strong, resilient people.
Above: Yvette Crombie on her Link-Up (Qld) reunion at Croydon, Queensland.
On my Link-Up (Qld) reunion trip, I visited places connected to my family’s past, places I had only heard about before. One of the most meaningful stops was staying at the Club Hotel in Croydon. Knowing that my ancestors likely frequented that very hotel meant so much to me. The building is original, dating back to those earlier days, and walking through its doors felt like I was literally walking in their footsteps.
Another powerful moment was when I tried to find my great-grandfather’s burial plot. That experience was deeply emotional and sad. There was no marker at his grave and standing there, I felt a great sense of loss not just for him but for the many ancestors who rest without names or recognition. It left me wondering if he was even truly laid to rest where the records say. That uncertainty stayed with me, but so did the feeling of wanting to honour him and make sure he is never forgotten.
Even though I did not meet any living family members, just being in these places gave me a deep sense of connection. Seeing the land and old buildings helped me feel close to those who came before me. It was a powerful reminder that their spirit is still present.
“There were moments during the journey that were particularly meaningful. Visiting the graves of ancestors and hearing their names spoken aloud moved me deeply. I also had a quiet moment sitting under a tree where I felt completely surrounded by spirit, like I was being welcomed back. That moment changed me. It felt like coming home.”
Above: Yvette Crombie (left) with support person Leanne, on her Link-Up (Qld) reunion at Croydon, Queensland.
This experience has helped me reclaim a part of myself that always felt just out of reach. It gave me answers, strength, and peace. I now walk with more confidence knowing where I come from and who I belong to. I feel connected not just to family but to Country, culture, and community.
I would like to thank the team at Link-Up (Qld) for walking beside me on this journey and holding space for the emotions that came up. I also want to thank Leanne who was there for my support, those who stood by me, and those I found along the way, for their love and open arms.
At this stage, I am not entirely sure where to go from here but I do know that this journey has opened something in me. I am open to new adventures, new beginnings, and whatever opportunities may come next as part of my healing. I will keep listening, learning, and staying connected in the ways I can, one step at a time.
Yvette Crombie
Published July 2025.