V. VINCENT:
FAREWELL TO A QUIET LEADER
The Chairman, Executive and staff of the Central Land Council are shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Mr V.Vincent last night.
Mr Vincent was the eldest son of the celebrated Aboriginal leader and land rights advocate Vincent Lingiari.
Mr Vincent was very much a man in his father's likeness – humble, dignified and statesmanlike.
Mr Vincent was born at Wave Hill Station in the Northern Territory , and had never received any formal education but always said “life experience” had given him “an insight into issues that are faced by our people”.
He was with his father at the famous Wave Hill Walk Off in 1966.
He was at one time a member of the Central Land Council Executive, an ATSIC Regional Councillor, a Daguragu Community Councillor and a constant and impressive representative of the Gurindji people.
CLC Director David Ross said Mr Vincent was an extremely valuable member of the community.
“No matter where he was - in front of 10 people in the bush or 500 people in Canberra - Mr Vincent could conduct himself impressively. His speeches at events like the opening of Reconciliation Place in Canberra and at many Gurindji Freedom Days over the years were moving and inspirational.
He possessed an enduring and rare commitment to his people and true leadership values,” Mr Ross said.
In 2001 Mr Vincent poured dirt back into the hands of former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam in a poignant reversal of the famous ceremony in which his father took symbolic possession of Gurindji land.
“We pass on our condolences to Mr Vincent's family and extended family. He will be deeply missed,” Mr Ross said.
6 June 2006
.jpg)
