Deputy Mayor Acknowledgement of Aunty Patsy Cameron AO

Dorset Council acknowledges the deep history and culture of the First People who were the traditional owners of the lands and waterways where we live and work. We acknowledge the clans people who lived here for over a thousand generations on the country where Scottsdale is built and throughout the area we know as the north east region.

On behalf of Council, I want to take this opportunity to express condolences to the Cameron family who have generously given their time and shared their knowledge not only the north east of Tasmania but to Tasmania and this country as a whole.

Aunty Patsy was a treasure. She was full of joy and she shared with us everything she knew. She ensured that the culture and history and truth of this area thrived. She was instrumental in the establishment of Mannalargenna Day which attracts thousands of people from all over the country. She helped establish Riawunna at the UTAS campus and Aboriginal studies into the curriculum but she also wrote her own academic history as well as two beautifully illustrated children's books. She was awarded her Order of Australia medal in recognition of her contribution and was very proud of it. We all were.

Aunty Patsy was warm hearted, passionate and knew how to get things done. She was a dedicated campaigner for The Voice to Parliament and was very disappointed in the outcome of that vote. She felt it deeply.

Aunty Patsy was instrumental in ensuring that the Aboriginal flag was flown proudly outside the Council Chambers and took part in the ceremony in May 2022 with Aunty Faye. Around that time she assisted with organising the Reconciliation Council chair to address Councillors, and at the earliest opportunity was invited to give a Welcome to Country at Winnaleah. She carefully explained the history of that place and the meaning of the word Winnaleah - a rich hunting ground, a fired country.

We have all reached out to the family in our own ways, and the family would prefer donations to Mannalargenna Day in lieu of flowers, but I want to share with you the message from Nick - Aunty Patsy's son - sent to Councillor McLennan with her permission.

Thank you for your message. I truly appreciate it. We are totally heartbroken to have lost her but also very proud of who she was and what she taught us. She is home now at peace and resting with the ancestors.