From the Kimberly to the COVID front line, young Aboriginal digger answers the call

When the COVID-19 virus began its relentless march through the Northern Territory the Australian Defence Force was called up to help halt its advance, among the ranks was a Walmadjari Gooniyandi man from the Fitzroy Valley in Western Australia.

Walmadjari Gooniyandi man, Private Uriah Daisybell. Source: Supplied

Private Uriah Daisybell and his comrades from Darwin’s Fifth Royal Australian Regiment were sent to COVID hot spots across the Territory to staff checkpoints and provide equipment and administrative support.  

“Pretty proud of myself to be honest, anything we can do help the local communities and show that we are actually here to help is a pretty good feeling”

Growing up in the Kimberley meant the young digger was well prepared for the forty degree days at checkpoints on roads into Timber Creek and then onto Tennant Creek.

Private Uriah Daisybell at a checkpoint in the NT. Source: Supplied

”Just a little reminder of home, I spent like more than four months in the cold of Sydney and I’m just glad to be back in the heat”

The 21 year old isn’t t afraid to take on new challenges, after graduating high school University beckoned in Perth, but he got restless and took a gap year.

“I didn’t really like the fact I just graduated high school then going back into school. I just wanted to try something different and actually earn some money.”

Mr Daisybell signed up to the ADF’s come and try gap year scheme. and said he hasn’t looked back since.

“It’s not for everyone, I’ve learnt that over the course of recruit training and private training there’s a certain level of willingness to keep pushing on that you need…if you have the drive and if you want to do it I reckon you shouldn’t  let anyone stop you, just go for it”

Private Uriah Daisybell at a checkpoint in the NT. Source: Supplied

Accusations of racism in the ranks of the ADF and sexism scandals have tarnished its image over the years and attracting and recruiting people of colour continues to challenge the organisation.

Mr Daisybell said,”I haven’t experienced any racism against me personally and there’s a few other Aboriginal boys in the battalion. To be honest nowadays most of the boys care about is whether you do the job and you can do the job properly other than that you’re included”

Uriah Daiseybell has decided to stick with the Army signing up for another four years with his sights set on becoming a specialist.