25 March, 2009
Aboriginal Australia Loses Another Great Fighter
The New South Wales Aboriginal community had lost a fearless champion and a powerful voice with the sudden death of Christine Ferguson, Chairperson of NSWALC, Bev Manton, said today.
Chairperson Manton said Christine Ferguson had been a pioneer in the fight for justice for Aboriginal people throughout New South Wales.
Christine devoted her life and heart and soul to working for and with her people to retain their rightful status.
Christine has been an active member of the Yamba Aboriginal community of the State's north coast for many years, holding senior administrative positions in a number of organisations before becoming the CEO of the Birrigan Gargle Land Council.
She worked closely with the people at the grass roots level and her dedication to those who had fallen on hard times was recognised throughout the community.
Christine was blessed with a gift for being there - being there when anybody needed her.
Over the years she made thousands of people feel good. She was a respected figure and trusted helpmate and adviser to generations of Aboriginal people.
Her lifetime of dedication to her people will not be forgotten.
People of the calibre of Christine are irreplaceable. She spent her life committed to the struggle for Aboriginal rights, in particular Aboriginal land rights.
She was committed to reconciliation in a very practical way - she believed in meeting with people face to face, talking through the issues and building solid relationships. Her approach was personal and hands-on, and people will remember for her for that.
She was always a community person.
We shall miss Christine's powerful voice, her eternal strength and her cheerful company.
My thoughts go to her family and community.
I hope they can take comfort from the memory of her achievements.
The funeral service for Christine Ferguson will be held at the Anglican Church, Wharf Street, MacLean, at 11 am on Friday, March 27.
 Further information: Peter Windsor 0400 554 603