YARNING CIRCLE with Colin Thomas and Uncle Bill Lemson

Finding a Hidden Aboriginal Family History:

Colin Thomas & the Search for Identity

S C I E N T I F I C I N ST R U M E N T M A K E R · PAT H O LO G Y  M I C R O S CO P E S  S P E C I A L I ST
A B O R I G I N A L  A N D  C H I N E S E  A N C E ST R Y

Raised in public housing in Sydney, in a turbulent household marked

by hardship, Colin’s early life was shaped by complicated family

dynamics, yet with proximity to Aboriginal neighbours and culture.

Defining elements of the family story were never spoken: left

unclear, in silence, never fully explained.

From a young age he showed a gifted practical mind. Forced early off

the ordinary school path and into work, he educated himself. After an

apprenticeship in scientific instrument manufacture, he became a

specialist in medical microscopy, pathology, histology and cryostats.

For 50 years he has delivered life-saving equipment worldwide.

ST JOHN’S CATHEDRAL · DARNELL ROOM · 11.15 AM · SUNDAY, JULY 19, 2026

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