Aunty Desley Barba

Aunty Desley is a respected Elder whose life journey embodies strength, resilience, and deep

cultural pride. An Aboriginal and South Sea Island woman from the Koinjmal clan, Aunty Desley

was born in Rockhampton and raised in the community of Creek Street — known as Kanaka

Town. Her life reflects a legacy of faith, leadership, and service to others.

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A lifelong learner, Aunty Desley studied at the Commonwealth Bible College in Brisbane before

dedicating many years to public service. Her career includes roles with the Department of

Education, the Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service, and other Government

Departments, she also worked as a Child Care Co-Ordinator supporting families and children

across Queensland.

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Aunty Desley’s story is also one of love, faith, and perseverance. Alongside her late husband, an

Aboriginal and South Sea Islander Church Pastor, she helped establish the Assemblies of God

Church on Thursday Island — a lasting spiritual home for many in the Torres Strait. After her

husband’s passing at just 36 years of age, with seven young children to raise, Desley’s

strength never faltered. Later, she remarried a Torres Strait–Malay man and welcomed her

eighth child, continuing to nurture a large and proud family rooted in culture and community.

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Today, as a keynote speaker and respected Elder, Aunty Desley shares her lived experience to

inspire understanding and connection across generations. Her stories offer deep insight into

the cultural and spiritual journey of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, and South Sea Islander

peoples — highlighting the importance of resilience, family, and faith in the face of

adversity.

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With a gentle yet powerful presence, Aunty Desley continues to guide others through storytelling,

cultural mentoring, and community engagement, making her an invaluable voice in First

Nations education and truth-telling.