Mrs Mununggurr: a visionary Yolngu

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The Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion, has paid tribute to
Mrs Mununggurr who passed away in Arnhem Land earlier this week.

Mrs Mununggurr was a senior traditional owner of the Gumatj Clan and a visionary Yolngu who was instrumental in establishing the Garma Festival in North East Arnhem Land, the annual celebration of
Yolngu culture, Minister Scullion said.

“I treasure the times I spent with Mrs Mununggurr in Arnhem Land,
particularly at Garma, an event I know was particularly dear to her heart.”

She was a foundation member of the Yothu Yindi Foundation, which
hosts and coordinates Garma, an event that draws thousands of people
from across Australia and beyond to Gove Peninsula to experience and
learn about the Yolngu.

The Chairman of the Yothu Yindi Foundation, Mr Galarrwuy Yunupingu AM,  describes the festival as an integration of Yolngu and Balanda culture, an opportunity for Yolngu to speak of their dreams and visions for their future.

“I acknowledge Mrs Munungurr’s legacy in the establishment and ongoing success of this important event.”

Minister Scullion extended his deepest condolences to Mrs Mununggurr’s family and her community at this difficult time.