Statement from Alf Lacey, Palm Island, Queensland

Tribute to our Sister

It with deep regret that I am unable to attend this service for a truly wonderful lady.  I met our sister when I came to Melbourne in 2003, the support she gave Christine and I and our people, was tremendous and something that I will never forget.

Life is but a journey, in that journey we meet wonderful people.  I was blessed to meet this splendid sister and to be touched by the support that she strived to give our people.  To her family and members of AAWL, and those of you who are here today, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.  To her family who I’ve never met, you truly had an amazing sister and daughter who we will all miss very much.  Please forgive me for not speaking her name, in Aboriginal custom it is wrong to speak her name after death.

"Today is the day we celebrate the life of a gifted and wonderful lady.  Our sister, your compassion, dignity, strength and commitment continues to inspire us.  We consider ourselves blessed to have shared some of your life with you."

On behalf of me and my family, the community of Palm Island in north Queensland, the Stolen Wages Campaign Working Group, members of the Aboriginal Coordinating Council and the Aboriginal Local Government Association of Queensland.