Sol Bellear facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sol Bellear
|
|
|---|---|
| Deputy chair of ATSIC | |
| In office 1991–1994 |
|
| ATSIC Commissioner for NSW Metro | |
| In office 1991–1994 |
|
| ATSIC Regional Councillor for Sydney | |
| In office 1990–1994 Serving with 19 others
|
|
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Solomon David Bellear
1950/1951 |
| Died | (aged 66) Sydney, New South Wales |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Relations | Bob Bellear (brother) |
Solomon David Bellear (1950/1951 – 29 November 2017) was an important Aboriginal Australian leader. He was known for his work helping his community and for his involvement in sports.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Solomon David Bellear, known as Sol, was born around 1950 or 1951. He grew up in the far north of New South Wales. Sol was one of nine children in his family. His brother, Bob Bellear, later became a judge.
Working for His Community
Sol Bellear was a strong voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He worked hard to improve their lives and rights.
Speaking Up for Indigenous Rights
In 1970, Sol Bellear was part of a group that traveled to the United States. They wanted to speak to the United Nations General Assembly about important issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This trip included attending a meeting called the "Congress of the African People" in Atlanta, Georgia.
Helping with Legal and Health Services
Sol Bellear was a key figure in setting up important services for his community.
- He was the first leader of the Aboriginal Legal Service when it started in the early 1970s. This service helps Aboriginal people with legal advice and support.
- He also led the Aboriginal Medical Service in Redfern, New South Wales. He was on the board of this service from 1975 until he passed away. This medical service provides health care for Aboriginal people.
Role in ATSIC
In 1990, Sol Bellear became a member of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC). ATSIC was a national organization that represented Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He was elected as one of 20 councillors for the Sydney region. Later, he became a commissioner for the New South Wales Metropolitan Zone. Sol Bellear even served as the deputy chair of ATSIC before he left in 1994.
Love for Rugby League
Sol Bellear was also very involved in rugby league.
Playing and Directing
In the late 1970s, he played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs team. He was also part of the Redfern All Blacks team, which played in the Koori Knockout competition. The Koori Knockout is a big rugby league tournament for Aboriginal teams.
From 2002, Sol Bellear was a director for the South Sydney Rabbitohs club. He resigned in 2006 when Russell Crowe and Peter Holmes a Court took over the club.
Managing the Indigenous Dreamtime Team
Sol Bellear was the team manager for the Indigenous Dreamtime team. This team played an exhibition match against a Māori team. This special game happened before the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.
Awards and Recognition
In 1999, Sol Bellear was recognized for his important work. He became a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). This award honored his services to the Aboriginal community, especially his efforts in Aboriginal health.
