It is with great sadness that I acknowledge the passing of the Member for Arafura.
He was the Member for Arafura but more than that, he was a husband, a father, a grandfather, a leader in the community and a friend to many. He was our friend, we are shocked and saddened and will miss him greatly.
As the Member for Arafura, he served the communities of the Tiwi Islands, Maningrida and West Arnhem for more than six years, however his was a lifetime of service, striving to better people's lives in roles across Local Government, ATSIC and the Health Sector. His efforts throughout his working life impacted many people's lives for the better, delivering better services, jobs, homes and health outcomes.
Family and friends meant everything to him and his generosity and care for people was enormous. Whatever he was doing, his wife Ebony, his children and grandchildren were always close to his thoughts, and time with family was what he cherished most.
His passing is a huge loss for his family, friends and the Northern Territory. I and his Parliamentary colleagues are only a few of many, many people around the Territory and the country who will be deeply saddened by his loss.
My sincere condolences to Ebony and the family and to all those whose lives he touched.
May he rest in peace.
Northern Territory Government
