Gatjil Djerrkura facts for kids
Gatjil Djerrkura OAM (Yolŋu Matha: Gätjil Djerrkura) (born 30 June 1949 – died 26 May 2004) was an important Aboriginal leader and spokesman in the Northern Territory and across Australia.
He was a respected elder from the Wangurri Aboriginal clan, which is part of the Yolngu people. As an elder, he was responsible for many traditional and ceremonial activities for his clan and the East Arnhem Land/Yirrkala Aboriginal community. He helped keep their culture and traditions strong.
Gatjil Djerrkura also served as the Chairperson of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) from 1996 to 2000. ATSIC was an important organization that represented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and advised the Australian government.
In 1984, he received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). This award recognized his significant contributions and services to the Aboriginal community.
His son, Nathan Djerrkura, became a professional Australian Rules Football player, playing for Geelong and the Western Bulldogs in the Australian Football League.
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Leading the Way: Gatjil Djerrkura's Roles
Gatjil Djerrkura held many important leadership positions throughout his life. These roles allowed him to work for the benefit of Indigenous Australians and their communities.
Helping with Education
- He was the Chairman of the Batchelor College Council in the NT. This college helps Indigenous students get a higher education.
Managing Land and Business
- He was a Director on the Board of the Indigenous Land Corporation. This group helps Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people get back and manage their traditional lands.
- He also served as a Director for Land Enterprise Australia.
- He was the General Manager of Yirrkala Business Enterprises in Nhulunbuy, helping local Aboriginal businesses grow.
- He was the Chairperson of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commercial Development Corporation, which supported Indigenous businesses.
- He was a Director of the Henry Walker Group, a large company.
Working for Reconciliation
- Gatjil Djerrkura was a member of the Council for Aboriginal reconciliation. This council worked to improve relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
