Vale Yunupiŋu – an extraordinary leader

From Nhulunbuy across the Territory to Adelaide, Flinders University pays its deep respects and heartfelt gratitude to Gumatj Clan leader, Yunupiŋu.

Sincerest condolences are extended to Gumatj, especially their Cultural Leaders and Educators who have worked with our Nhulunbuy team; we mourn with them for a truly great man who has gone to burralku, land of departed spirits, home of the morning star.

Our Nhulunbuy team have crafted a collective testimonial as an expression of appreciation for Yunupiŋu and support for all Yolŋu.

“We would like to pay our deepest tribute to Gumatj Clan leader, Yunupiŋu. 

 We acknowledge the profound loss of his guidance, and acknowledge his family at this difficult time, including several staff members at our Nhulunbuy Campus.  

 Yunupiŋu’s great leadership over many decades has inspired us and continues to guide our work in East Arnhem land. 

 His dedication to fighting for Yolŋu and Yolŋu Country has been an extraordinary contribution which has changed the course of history and touched countless lives.  

 The staff of Flinders University campus at Nhulunbuy on Yolŋu Country would particularly like to acknowledge Yunupiŋu’s life and the profound effect his passing will have on their work and Yolŋu community they work with. 

 We extend our acknowledgements also to the Yothu Yindi Foundation, Gumatj Aboriginal Corporation, and the broader community.”

 The co-chairs of Flinders University’s Reconciliation Action plan committee, Professor Simone Ulalka Tur and Professor Jonathan Craig say Yunupiŋu leaves an indelible legacy.

“We at Flinders are deeply saddened by the passing of senior Gumatj clan leader and Yolŋu Elder, Yunupiŋu.   

 Yunupiŋu was a remarkable national leader, activist for the rights of Yolŋu of East Arnhem land and more broadly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people nationally.  

 Yunupiŋu’s loss is felt from the Flinders University Nhulunbuy Campus on Yolŋu Country and across the University’s footprint in Northern Territory and South Australia.

 Yunupiŋu’s legacy will live on for generations to come.”

Posted in
College of Medicine and Public Health Flinders Rural and Remote Health News