JOE McLaren is a proud Aboriginal woman who says the struggles of Indigenous Australians are far from over.
On the eve of NAIDOC Week (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee), Ms McLaren said racism was still a huge problem and she was desperate to shield her young daughters from the barbs she deflected a a child.
The theme of NAIDOC Week (July 5-12) is that we all stand on sacred ground: learn, respect and celebrate.
Growing up in Sutherland Shire with an Aboriginal father and non-Indigenous mother meant Ms McLaren was picked on at school.
"I always identified as Aboriginal not Australian," she said.
"I copped racial abuse and school and I still occasionally get it."
Ms McLaren's father died when she was just 11 but now a celebration of NAIDOC week means celebrating her dad's life.
Her heritage is reflected in her business Nulla Breeze which makes hand-poured candles.
Her favourite in the range is Kamilaroi, the name of her dad's tribe at Coonabarabran. She asked her family for input and they suggested the scent of lemon myrtle and the colour of a bush sunset.
"I'm proud of what I have done."
She is planning on taking her daughters to Coonabarabran to meet relatives and she makes sure they know all about her late father.
Ms McLaren received her confirmation of Aboriginality certificate from Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation, Jannali.
