Sudden passing of respected NT Aboriginal leader a ‘great loss’

 

4 April 2013

Statement by Professor Mick Dodson AM, AIATSIS Chairperson

 

The sudden passing of the prominent and respected NT Aboriginal woman Karmi Dunn, is a terrible tragedy.

Karmi, her husband Stuart Sceney and family will be greatly missed.

I extend the deepest sympathy of behalf of the AIATSIS Council, our staff and our members.

Karmi played a significant role in the advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues across Australia and in particular was a tireless champion for her fellow Indigenous Territorians.

Her work spanned many decades including helping to implement the ground-breaking NT 1974 Aboriginal Land Rights Act.

Her inspiring work and commitment as the former Chairperson of the ATSIC Yilli Rreung Regional Council (Darwin), as the former Deputy Chair of the Indigenous Housing Authority of the Northern Territory and with the Northern Land Council will long live on as her legacy to her people.

She was a passionate campaigner for education for her people and was Chairperson of the Northern Territory Area Consultative Committee and worked with the Northern Territory Department of Education Indigenous Education Branch.

Her talent and determination also spilled onto the sporting arena as she was a prominent sportswoman, representing the Northern Territory in various sports.

It is an understatement to say that Karmi was hugely respected everywhere she went - from the boardrooms and offices in Canberra or Darwin, to the remote and isolated communities scattered across Indigenous Australia.

We have lost a great leader and a good friend. She will be missed.

Our thoughts are with her extended families as they deal with their loss.