The Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) acknowledges with sadness the passing of respected Aboriginal campaigner, Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue.

Dr O’Donoghue was born in 1932 at De Rose Hill station, in far-north South Australia.

The Yankunytjatjara leader dedicated her life to being an Indigenous rights advocate and was a fierce leader in recognition campaigns for Indigenous peoples.

A member of the stolen generations, Dr O’Donoghue was taken from her family as a young girl. After a chance meeting in Coober Pedy with an aunt and uncle during the late 1960s, she was reunited with her birth mother Lily 30 years after being taken away.

Amongst many career achievements, Dr O’Donoghue was named Australian of the Year in 1984, and in 2005, was honoured with a papal award, being titled the Dame of the Order of St Gregory the Great.

Ian Hamm, ILSC Chair, extended his condolences to Dr O’Donoghue’s family and friends.

“Dr O’Donoghue’s work in Indigenous reconciliation, public policy and activism will be recognised for decades to come. With her passing, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy,” said Mr Hamm.

“My thoughts remain with Dr O’Donoghue’s loved ones during this time. Her loss will be felt by many.”

Vale Dr Lowitja O’Donoghue AC CBE DSG.