19 June 2015

Land Rights Legend Jim Wright passes on

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) sends its deepest sympathies to
the family of Goori man Jim Wright who passed away this week.

NSWALC Chairman Craig Cromelin said Jim was a giant in the Land Rights
network in the Sydney-Newcastle region and in New South Wales.

"A tireless fighter for justice who was actively involved in the Land Rights
struggle in the 1970s, Jim would play an instrumental role in the establishment
of Local Aboriginal Land Councils in the region.

"Outside the Land Rights network, Jim dedicated himself to helping set up a
range of services including Aboriginal Medical Services and Aboriginal Legal
Services.

"He was the first Administrator of the Awabakal Newcastle Aboriginal Co-op,
founded Yarnteen ATSI Corporation as well as Youloe-ta Indigenous
Development Association Incorporated.

"Jim was the Chairperson of the Sydney-Newcastle Regional Aboriginal Land
Council and also represented the Eastern Zone as an ATSIC (Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander Commission) Commissioner.
"His contribution extended to numerous boards and committees including the
Native Title Service Provider for Aboriginal Traditional Owners in NSW and the
ACT (NTSCORP).

"Jim's passion for rugby league saw his beloved Yowies win the Knockout on a
number of occasions.

"He was also instrumental in the establishment of the NSW Aboriginal Rugby
League Association.

"With family ties extending from the Newcastle, the Lower Hunter to Moree,
Gunnedah, the New England tablelands, Kempsey and Sydney, Jim's loss will
be felt by many throughout the State.

"Jim will be remembered by the Land Rights network as a tenacious and
dedicated advocate who ensured the struggle of those who fought for Land
Rights was realised through the establishment of strong and respected
organisations to carry on their work."

To obtain PDF version of this media release click here

Media contact: Andrew Williams 0429 585 291