Jean Jimmy facts for kids
Andruana Ann Jean Jimmy (born 30 September 1912 – died 17 October 1991) was an important Indigenous Australian leader. She was known for fighting to protect her community's land and for her work as a politician.
Andruana Jimmy's Early Life
Andruana Jimmy was born on 30 September 1912. Her birthplace was near the Pennefather River in Far North Queensland, Australia. She was the second of three children. Her brother was Richard, also known as Dick Luff. Her sister was Maggie. Andruana's parents were from the Wimaranga people. Her name, Andruana, meant "wattle" in their language. This word showed her strong and determined spirit.
Andruana spent most of her childhood in Mapoon. She lived in a Presbyterian mission. Her father, Philip, was an evangelist. He worked with Aboriginal people. Andruana did not see him often.
Fighting for Her Community
On 29 August 1933, Andruana married a sailor named Gilbert Jimmy. After World War II, they moved to Thursday Island. Later, Andruana became a strong voice for her people. She spoke out against a big problem. A large part of the Mapoon Reserve was going to be leased for mining. This land was very important to her community.
Sadly, Andruana and other Aboriginal people were forced to leave their homes. They were moved to New Mapoon, Queensland. This was a very difficult time. Andruana bravely shared her experiences. She spoke at the 1964 Federal Council for the Advancement of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders Conference. She told everyone what had happened.
Leadership and Legacy
Andruana Jimmy continued to be a leader. She served as the head of the local council in New Mapoon for two years. Later, she moved to Weipa South. There, she led the local council for three years.
Andruana also shared valuable knowledge. She gave information about traditional medicine to Les Hiddins. Her mother had taught her these important healing methods.
Andruana Jimmy passed away on 17 October 1991. She died at Weipa Hospital. She was buried in the Mapoon cemetery. After her death, a special place was named in her honor. The Land and Sea Centre in Mapoon now carries her name. This shows how much she meant to her community.
