Beloved Ngarrindjeri and Boandik Elder Aunty Shirley Peisley AM, who played a key role in Australia's must successful referendum, has passed away aged 83.
Aunty Shirley was a "giant of the movement" for reconciliation and First Nations justice, dedicating decades of her life to the cause.
At age 25 she emerged as a key leader in the campaign a Yes vote in the 1967 referendum which amended section 51 to empower the Commonwealth to make laws and establish programs for Indigenous people, and section 127 so Aboriginal people would be recognised as part of the Australian population.
Aunty Shirley has been described as a trailblazer for her tireless efforts to pursue justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and was a strong advocate for the reconciliation movement. She served as Co-Chair of the City of Adelaide Reconciliation Committee (2002-2005).
Reconciliation Australia chief executive Karen Mundine said Aunty Shirley was a determined and loving woman with a contagious sense of humour and a huge heart.
"She was an incredible fighter and a mentor to me and many others who followed in her footsteps," Ms Mundine said.
"The last time I spoke with her was at the funeral of another giant South Australian Aboriginal woman, the great Lowitja O'Donoghue. I remember Aunty Shirley was as fiery as ever. She will be enormously missed."
In a formal statement, Reconciliation Australia sent their "deepest condolences to her children, grandchildren and other members of her family and her countless friends".
