Rhoda Roberts dies aged 66: Indigenous cultural leader credited with ‘Welcome to Country’ honoured across Australia
Warning: We would like to remind Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers that this article contains references to and photographs of a deceased Indigenous person.
Tributes are flowing for Indigenous cultural icon Rhoda Roberts, who has died at age 66.
Roberts, who worked as a journalist, actor and producer throughout his illustrious career, died on Saturday after a battle with cancer.
He is credited with coining the term “Welcome to Country.”
SBS’s First Nations Director, Tanya Denning-Orman, paid tribute to Roberts, writing that she was inspired to see the Bundjalung woman on television.
“Our extremely proud Bundjalung woman, Rhoda, reminded us of the shoulders we stand on and the importance of the work we do,” Denning-Orman said in a statement shared by SBS.
“It’s fascinating in so many ways, seeing it on prime-time TV has inspired me and many others.
“He not only led change, he galvanized an industry, nurturing and guiding leaders who moved the fire of change forward, fueled by his family, his story, and his ancestors.
“His craft has extended beyond the screen and stage through his advocacy for First Nations leadership and commitment to the next generation. His spirit is held in the Outback, carried through land, story and community.”
He thanked Roberts’ family “for sharing Rhoda with us and so many others.”
“To you Rhoda, we thank you, we miss you, and we will carry you with us in everything we do.”
Roberts became the first Indigenous presenter on Australian television’s prime-time channel, alongside Michael Johnson, co-host of First In Line.
His achievements include co-founding the country’s first national Aboriginal theater company (The Aboriginal National Theater Trust), as well as being awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his services to the performing arts and his work to develop contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
Home Secretary Tony Burke said in a statement posted on social media on Saturday afternoon that Roberts “will always be respected, respected and loved”.
“With every step Rhoda took forward, she took a generation of people with her,” Mr. Burke said.
“Thanks to Rhoda Roberts, we have more creativity, more Australians dreaming bigger, and a better understanding of our nation.
“Rhoda Roberts, you will always be respected, revered and loved. We are grateful to you. Rest in peace.”SBS Chairman Nicholas Pappas AM said R0berts “will always have a special place within SBS.”
“Rhoda Roberts led with bold, visionary leadership, conviction and a deep sense of cultural stewardship, leaving a lasting mark on Australia’s creative and cultural life,” Dr Pappas said.
“His contributions established a benchmark of culture, integrity and purpose… He expanded what was possible in Australian media and his influence will continue to guide the SBS network and the wider arts and media sector for years to come.”
SBS Deputy Managing Director Jane Palfreyman described Roberts as a “true pioneer” and said his impact was “deeply felt” at the outlet.
