3 March, 2022

3 March 2022

Sorry Business – Passing of Aunty Thelma Slater

NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) and the Land Rights network mourn the passing of Kamilaroi Elder, Aunty Thelma Slater.

Born at Walhallow, Thelma dedicated her life to ensuring the rights of Aboriginal people, notably equality, better health, appropriate housing and living conditions  and the rights to  a good education.

Thelma served on the Aboriginal Lands Trust, was a founding member of the Walhallow Local Aboriginal Land Council and served as a current board member until her passing. She was a founding member of the Walhallow Murri Enterprise Corporation and served as a member of the Walhallow Aboriginal Corporation, the local P&C and was the CDEP shop Manager for many years. She was also a lifelong supporter of the mighty Cronulla Sharks.

Over the years she enjoyed being involved in the local women’s group and ensuring the Walhallow owned cemetery was always maintained.

Thelma Slater was a respected Elder and dedicated community member, whose legacy will live on and inspire generations to come.

NSWALC Councillor for the Northern Region, Charles Lynch said that Aunt Thelma’s dedication to Land Rights and her community will always be remembered.

“Aunt’s passing is very sad, but I know that the shoulders of our Elders who we stand on each day, have now become stronger.

She saw the best in the worst and the worst in the best and I will miss her cheeky grin and sense of humour,  but most of all I will miss her friendship.

On behalf of our Network,  my thoughts and prayers go out to Aunt’s family and the Walhallow community during this sad time.”

A funeral service will be held at Walhallow Church at Caroona on Monday the 7th of March at 10.30am.