Kowanyama and Cape York communities in mourning after death of Vivian Sinnamon

Tributes are pouring in for a Kowanyama and Cape York icon who had a legendary connection with the land and community in the remote Far North area.

Tributes are pouring in for a Kowanyama and Cape York icon who had a legendary connection with the land and community in the remote Far North area.

Cultural pioneer and leader Vivian Sinnamon is being remembered as a raconteur and a “wonderfully kind” man who entrenched himself in Kowanyama.

Described as a giant of Queensland anthropology, Mr Sinnamon dedicated his life to preserving the history of Kowanyama and Cape York Indigenous culture through language and connection to country.

Kowanyama leader Vivian Sinnamon.

He was prolific in the creation of a cultural and research centre in the Aboriginal Shire and was working hard to get it expanded and developed.

Friend and artist, Bernadette Boscacci, 53, said he would be sadly missed.

“He just loved engaging with people,” she said.

“He was a really good communicator and leaves an amazing legacy to the people of Kowanyama.”

Vivian Sinnamon passed away this week. Photo: Facebook.

Ms Boscacci said Mr Sinnamon was a friend and mentor “to so many”.
“He was a kind, clever, funny, compassionate, insightful, gentle, humble, life-loving man and passionate peacemaker,” she said.

A beloved father, grandfather, uncle and brother, he was a respected elder in Kowanyama,

spending almost 50 years in the community.
He was revered for his “deep and profound knowledge of country” along with geography, the environment, language and history.

“He was also an artist,” Ms Boscacci said.

“He loved the arts, beekeeping, gardening and literature.”

Vivian Sinnamon was a legend in the Cape York area. Photo: Facebook.

A talented bushman, It’s believed he died of a heart attack on November 5 while walking alone in the outback.
“It’s where he loved to be, and doing what he loved to do – walking, hunting, collecting and preparing to make and teach traditional cultural items, objects, tools and weapons,” she said.

Another friend, Ross Williams, said the world had “lost another beautiful soul.”

“Like so many of his family, friends and community it is and was devastating news,” he said.

“a very, very warm and calm gentleman.

“We are already missing you my Brother. Rest now.”

Follow @markcmuzza

Originally published as Kowanyama and Cape York communities in mourning after death of Vivian Sinnamon