Late Galarrwuy Yunupingu, Yolngu leader, former Australian of the Year, given Australia Day honours
The Yunupingu family have welcomed the awarding of Australia Day honours to a late Yolngu leader and former Australian of the Year.
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The Yunupingu family have welcomed the awarding of Australia Day honours to the late Yolngu leader, Dr Galarrwuy Yunupingu AC, who passed away in April 2023.
Dr Yunupingu was crowned Australian of the Year in 1978 and was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia General Division in February 2023.
The Companion of the Order of Australia is the highest recognition in the country’s honour system and is awarded for notable achievement and merit in service to Australia or humanity.
In 1985, Dr Yunupingu was made a member of the Order of Australia.
In 1998, he was named one of Australia’s National Living Treasures by the National Trust of Australia, and in 2015 he was invested with an Honorary Doctor of Law, University of Melbourne.
He passed away surrounded by his extended family on his land at Gunyangara.
Dr Yunupingu’s daughter, Binmila Yunupingu, said her father inspired her.
“A husband, a grandfather, brother, uncle, but most importantly a strong and loving father to me,” she said.
“He taught me to be a strong woman, which I have become today.”
“He influenced me with his powerful leadership and the sharpness of his thinking, telling me to look ahead into the future, to be prepared for what challenges would be awaiting ahead.”
“We miss him so much, but knowing the legacy he has left behind is something that gives our family the courage and strength to keep moving forward, working with my elders, guiding our children and empowering Yolngu to continue his legacy into the future.”
Djawa Yunupingu, brother of Dr Yunupingu and chairman of the Yothu Yindi foundation, said he could not have asked for a better brother.
“First, and always, he was my big brother”, he said.
“He cared for me, guided me, and loved me, like he did all his brothers and sisters.”
“My brother was a family man. He told us to never forget who you are, or where you come from.
“He told us that the most important thing in life was family.”
THE LIFE OF DR YUNUPINGU
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Originally published as Late Galarrwuy Yunupingu, Yolngu leader, former Australian of the Year, given Australia Day honours
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