Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised this message contains the name and image of deceased persons.
We pay tribute to our former Authority Board member Melissa-Leigh George, who her family asked be referred to as Gigari George (Black Cockatoo), and offer our condolences to her family and friends.
A Wulgurukaba Traditional Owner with traditional connections to Magnetic Island and the greater Townsville region, Gigari was a valued Board member from August 2008 to November 2018.
As a Board member, Gigari was a passionate advocate who helped ensure the interests and aspirations of the Reef’s Traditional Owners were considered in all aspects Reef management.
Her place on the Board significantly enhanced the Authority’s understanding of First Nations People, and embedded a culture of mutual respect and acknowledgement that will continue into the future.
Gigari was remarkable and inspiring woman who tirelessly supported First Nations Peoples across Australia and helped shape an important national and international dialogue for the First Nations voice.
She held, above all else, a deep love for Country, Culture and its Peoples.
