Murray Chapman Honoured

The unexpected passing of Murray Chapman, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council Administrator, was a sad loss for the cause of improving conditions for Indigenous Australians, Warren Snowdon, Member for Lingiari and Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Northern Australia and Indigenous Affairs, said today.

Mr Chapman, 47, passed away at his Canberra home last Friday evening.

'With Murray's passing, Australia has lost a great man - a true battler who fought passionately for land rights and the Aboriginal people.

'Murray was an inspiration and mentor to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. His legacy will continue to benefit Aboriginal people in New South Wales for many generations to come' said Mr Snowdon.

Mr Chapman led a distinguished career prior to being appointed Administrator of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council in November 2003. He was the General Manager of the Indigenous Land Corporation and worked in senior roles in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission and the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, as well as a senior advisor to former Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs in the Hawke and Keating Governments, Robert Tickner.

'But above all, Murray was a good mate - always cheerful and delightful company' said Mr Snowdon.

'He achieved a great deal in his short life and was forever a proud and loving family man.

'My deepest condolences go to his wife, his children, his parents, friends and colleagues. He has made a significant contribution and will be greatly missed.'

2007-04-01