Tarni Bruce
Tagalaka, Kukatj and Kutijar woman
Pilot Officer
Legal Officer
Royal Australian Air Force
Medals and Awards
Australian Defence Medal
I was born on Thursday Island, surrounded by the beautiful waters of the Torres Strait. I am a descendant of the resilient Tagalaka, Kukatj and Kutijar peoples from the remote Gulf Savannah countries. I have spent much of my life living between the contrasting environments of Normanton and Bribie Island.
After becoming a single mother at 19 and having a formidable start to adulthood, I realised that I needed a stable career that would financially support my daughter. The job couldn’t be any old job, though, it had to be multi-faceted, stimulating and rewarding – and that is exactly what I got. I decided to enlist in 2020 as an Air Intelligence Analyst (Geospatial). Over the past four years, I have also had the privilege to work in a variety of other fields, namely Australia’s Federation Guard (AFG) and the Directorate of Organisational Behaviour and Culture – Indigenous Affairs (DOBC-IA).
At AFG, I have been fortunate enough to contribute to many important military ceremonies, such as:
– the RAAF Centenary (the Queen’s Colour Escort Squadron)
– ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies
– Last Post ceremonies
– Various Royal and Half Guards for foreign and domestic dignitaries
At DOBC-IA, I had the privilege to work alongside an incredible team that aimed to wholistically develop cultural competencies in recruitment, retention, and career progression. As Indigenous engagement had always been interwoven in my career aspirations prior to enlistment, working in DOBC seemed like a no brainer. During my time, I was provided with every opportunity to give back to my community. As I am the only Indigenous person from Normanton to enlist in the RAAF, I have been encouraged to give back to my communities in an official capacity. I have been able to physically and virtually present as the key speaker at school career expos, school graduations and NAIDOC events.
As my time came to an end in DOBC, I remustered and commissioned as a Legal Officer. Since 2023, I have been completing my Bachelor of Laws as a Civil Schooling student. I cannot wait to begin my career as a Lawyer and work in a field that is dynamic, varied and challenging. I one day hope to work for community-based legal organisations that protect the legal and human rights of Indigenous peoples.
I am forever grateful to my dear friend and mentor, the late Warrant Officer WOFF Jodi Ross, my family, my daughter and the DOBC team for believing in me and providing so much unconditional support over the years. I hope I’ve made you all proud.