James Evans
Wiradjuri
Flight Lieutenant
Indigenous Liaison Officer
Royal Australian Air Force
Medals and Awards
Australian Operational Service Medal – Greater Middle East Operation
Australian Defence Medal
Operational Service Badge – Military
Air Force Commendation – Silver
Queensland Police Service Commonwealth Games Citation
I am a proud Wiradjuri man from Wagga Wagga, where I was raised by my mother, Laura, and her partner, Jay. My grandmother Yvonne and Aunty Sue, along with my mum, played a pivotal role in grounding me in our culture and instilling a profound sense of pride in my heritage. Growing up alongside my younger sister Natasha and brother Brendan, our family was tight-knit and deeply connected to our roots. Though I don’t know my biological father, I believe he has two other children whom I aspire to meet one day, viewing it as my responsibility to bridge that gap.
My journey has been rich and varied, both in personal experiences and professional endeavours. I have four beautiful children who are my pride and joy. My firstborn, Tayla, came into my life during my year 12. My second daughter, Brooklyn, now has her own daughter, Bambi, making me a proud grandfather. Later, I married another woman and had my two boys, Ruben and Hudson.
Before my time in the Air Force, I wore many hats: Dental Assistant, youth worker, general hand on council, barman, teacher’s aide, firefighter, and roles dedicated to helping our mobs secure employment. My life took a significant turn after a divorce left me spiralling into a negative lifestyle filled with drugs and alcohol. It was at this low point that I revisited a childhood dream inspired by too many Rambo movies, deciding to join the Defence Force. I sought discipline, a personal challenge, and the opportunity to prove to my children that I am a good man and a worthy role model, not just for them but for other Indigenous people as well.
My career in the Defence Force has been nothing short of remarkable over the past decade. I began with an Indigenous Pre-Employment Course, then joined as an Air Force Defence Guard. This role took me to the Middle East in 2019, among other significant experiences like working at the Commonwealth Games and on a UN mission in Vietnam, where I forged lifelong friendships. In 2021, I was commissioned as a Personnel Capability Officer, and for the past four years, I’ve served as an Indigenous Liaison Officer, a role that aligns perfectly with my passion.
This position has afforded me the honour of traveling to places like Washington DC, the Maldives, and France, where I’ve had the opportunity to play the didgeridoo, sharing our rich culture with the world. Yet, the most gratifying moments come from supporting Indigenous people in achieving their goals, whether within Defence or beyond.
Adding a beautiful chapter to my life, I have now met the greatest person and the love of my life, Bunyarra Jones. She has brought immense joy and strength into my world, further enriching my journey. My story, marked by highs and lows, is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the power of second chances. With Bunyarra by my side, I look forward to the future with hope and excitement, continuing to make a positive impact on my community and beyond.