25 November, 2025

New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) and the Land Rights Network are mourning the passing of Aunty Colleen Pearle Perry, a proud Worimi Elder and former CEO of Karuah Local Aboriginal Land Council (LALC), whose nurturing and powerful spirit will be remembered and honoured by generations to come.

Born on the Sunrise Mission at Purfleet, Taree in 1932, Aunty Colleen was raised to honour and uphold Culture by her Elders and throughout her life. She worked tirelessly to carry forward their stories and cultural practices.

Aunty Colleen cared deeply for Community – particularly through supporting the next generation. Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Aunty Colleen ran children’s cultural camps where she helped and supported participants to find their true selves. 

As an advocate for Aboriginal education, Aunty Colleen was also heavily involved in the establishment and success of the Wollotuka Institute.

NSWALC Chairperson Cr Raymond Kelly said Aunty Colleen was extremely proud of her family and her Community.

“Hundreds of children would know and remember Aunty Colleen from the late 1970s and early 1980s when she ran children’s cultural camps. She was always proud of her Culture, and knew the value of passing on her knowledge and also her values – honesty, respect and trust.”

“Her quiet determination and strength helped shape generations of our people. She was extremely proud of her family. Her granddaughter, Marook Perry, continues that fighting spirit and dedication as the CEO of Karuah Local Aboriginal Land Council.”

“On behalf of the Land Rights Network, I send my deep condolences to Aunty Colleen’s family at this very sad time.”

Her family have invited the Land Rights Network to celebrate her life at Karuah, with a ceremony to take place at 11:00 am on Sunday, December 7 at Lionel Morton Oval.

This Network Message and image has been approved and developed alongside the Perry family.