July 1999

Honour for NLC Chair

OVER 200 north east Arnhem Land people last month witnessed the Governor-General Sir William Deane bestow a special award on the Northern Land Council Chairman Galarrwuy Yunupingu.

Sir William presented a plaque to Mr Yunupingu in recognition of the NLC Chairman's leadership and historic role in the land rights movement.

The Governor-General said Mr Yunupingu was worthy of a special plaque - an honour rarely bestowed on any individual or organisation.

Mr Yunupingu is one of 100 "Australian Living National Treasures" selected by the National Trust as leaders in society "considered to have a great influence over our environment because of the standards and examples they set".

Australian Living National Treasures are considered to be men and women who have a profound effect on the way we live and the values we adopt.

Mr Yunupingu said he was honoured to receive the award. He also spoke of his personal regard, friendship and respect for Sir William "particularly in relation to his efforts in working towards reconciliation between white and black Australians".

During his visit Sir William also opened the new regional NLC office in Nhulunbuy.

FAIRA Aboriginal Corporation
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