Aboriginal Australia loses a legend

May 9, 2011

Chairwoman of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Bev Manton has paid tribute to boxing world champion Lionel Rose, who passed away over the weekend.

"Lionel Rose was a great champion. He inspired a lot of Aboriginal people - myself included - at a time when we were barely even considered citizens of this country.

"He showed a great fighting spirit, the same spirit that has sustained my people for generations."

Chairwoman Manton said Lionel's passing was not unexpected.

"You've still got a lot of living left to do at 62, but for Aboriginal people that's often not the case," Chairwoman Manton said.

"But I believe Lionel would want us to remember him for his life, not his passing. And it was an amazing life. He was a trail blazer in so many respects.

"Our deepest condolences go to Lionel's family. He was a very special man and he will be greatly missed by the Aboriginal community of NSW, and beyond."

Media Contact Chris Munro: 0438 760 242