Boxing legend passes on

February 9, 2011

Aboriginal NSW is today mourning the passing of Armidale sporting legend 'Honest' Frank Roberts.

The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council would like to convey its deepest sympathies to Frank's family at such a sad time.

Frank was best known for his abilities in the boxing ring.

He became the first Aboriginal Olympian after being selected to compete at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. He was the youngest competitor on the Australian team.

Frank went on to train the sweet science in and around his home town of Armidale for many years.

He blazed the trail for a string of top shelf Aboriginal boxers and will be remembered as a legend of the sport alongside names like Mundine, Rose, Bracken and Sands.

Frank was recently awarded an honorary medal on Survival Day (Australia Day) for his special contribution to his community through the sport of boxing.

Always swinging punches for his people, Frank will be sorely missed. RIP.