Tributes flow after the passing of Dr Bush-Blanasi

Top End leaders are mourning the loss of a ‘friend and confidant’ after the passing of Dr Bush-Blanasi.

Tributes are flowing for Dr Bush-Blanasi following the sudden passing of the 2023 NT Australian of the Year.

Chief Minister Natasha Fyles led the tributes and said Dr Bush-Blanasi was “an inspirational leader”.

“A proud Yolngu and Mayili man, Dr Bush-Blanasi was a strong advocate, and an inspirational leader for Aboriginal people across the Northern Territory and Australia,” she said.

“Dr Bush-Blanasi was the NT Australian of the Year 2023, who will be remembered for his strong support of Native Title claims, including the hand back of remaining ancestral lands at Kakadu to traditional owners.”

Ms Fyles said Dr Bush-Blanasi would be missed by many.

Northern Land Council chairman Dr Bush-Blanasi has been remembered by the Chief Minister among others. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“Dr Bush-Blanasi was also instrumental in securing sea country rights for Yolngu people at Blue Mud Bay in eastern Arnhem Land; and helped to develop the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

“More than his achievements, Dr Bush-Blanasi was a friend and confidant to many.

“Always offering advice and wisdom, we will miss his guidance.”

The Northern Land Council, for which Dr Bush-Blanasi served as Chair, issued a statement which paid homage to the leader for “dedicating his life” to Aboriginal communities.

“His leadership was bold and uncompromising.

“Never deferential; he spoke truth to power.

“His political nous was second to none; equally as influential when talking with countrymen or politicians.

NT Chief Minister Natasha Fyles and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chansey Paech have led tributes for Dr Bush-Blanasi. Picture: Liam Mendes / The Australian

“He engaged naturally to deliver tough messages to those who needed to hear them.”

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Chansey Paech also shared a tribute on social media and said the news had “devastated” him.

“As the Aboriginal Affairs Minister this is without a doubt one of the hardest things to hear,” he said.

“I am absolutely devastated by the news of (Dr Bush-Blanasi’s) unexpected passing overnight.”

Mr Paech maintained the Territory was well served by Dr Bush-Blanasi.

“A passionate social justice advocate, defender of Country and a man of conviction - our lives are richer because of him.”