Ingrid Nadjarian remembered for ‘incredible’ contribution to NT community

One of the Territory’s most prolific volunteers, self-described cat lady, and beloved resident Ingrid Nadjarian is being remembered for her incredible contribution to the community.

Darwin woman Ingrid Nadjarian is being remembered as a tireless volunteer and strong supporter of the arts. Picture: Supplied.

Dozens have gathered in a touching “celebration of life” to remember a beloved sister, friend, and one of the Territory’s most prolific volunteers.

Ingrid Nadjarian passed away on September 28 after a short illness, aged 72.

Friend John McNeur said the wide variety of people who came to pay tribute to her life at Sunday’s ceremony showed how strongly she “adopted the NT” after moving here two decades ago.

“Ingrid was such a significant member of so, so many of our community families in Darwin and the Northern Territory,” he said.

“She tirelessly volunteered, you name it she would put her hand up for a role.

“Sunday was a rare opportunity for people from all those different silos in her life to meet, and is testament to what an impressive, inspirational and vibrant woman she was.”

Ingrid Nadjarian (R) with Mary Wheaton, volunteering at the 2015 Seniors Expo.

Ingrid worked for local organisations including the Northern Land Council, Law Courts and the Environmental Defenders Officer, and volunteered for Brown’s Mart, Darwin Symphony Orchestra, National Trust, Historical Society, Friends of the Darwin Botanic Gardens, Mango Madness Festival and more.

A self-described cat lady, Ingrid gave generously to animal charities and other causes close to her heart.

“I knew our relationship was cemented when she asked me to have enduring power of attorney over her cats,” Mr McNeur said.

Ingrid was unashamedly passionate about her furry friends. Picture: Supplied.

Friends remembered her as a glamorous and stylish person who loved a glass of “bubbles”, but balanced it out with a strong dose of pragmatism.

Brown’s Mart CEO Sophia Hall said Ingrid could always be trusted to provide a thoughtful and considered opinion.

“She was incredibly generous with her energy and her time, and a strong patron of the arts,” Ms Hall said.

“It’s clear she had an extraordinarily varied life and a really adventurous spirit.

“She lived alone, and brought other people who lived alone together - she was a sort of social nexus that made people feel welcome.”

On social media friend Stevie Greenwood described Ingrid as “one of a kind”.

“I am so grateful that I was able to share so much of my last 20 years with you. It was fantastic to see so many people that were also blessed to have known you. RIP dear friend,” she said.

Another friend Robyn Warms, who was unable to attend on Sunday, said she raised a toast “with a glass of her favourite bubbles”.

“Ingrid and I were lifelong friends and shared many adventures and life events together. I cannot believe that she is gone but she will be in my heart forever,” she said.