A Nation Mourns the Loss of Rhoda Roberts, a Trailblazer for First Nations Culture
Australia is in mourning following the passing of Rhoda Roberts, a formidable First Nations trailblazer and cultural icon, at the age of 66. Roberts, a Widjabul Wieybal woman of the Bundjalung Nation, succumbed to a rare and aggressive form of ovarian cancer after a seven-month battle. Her death, announced by her family on Saturday, March 21st, has sent ripples of grief through the arts, media, and Indigenous communities across the country.
Roberts was a true pioneer, breaking barriers and forging new paths throughout her illustrious career. She is widely credited with coining the term “Welcome to Country” in the 1980s, a practice that has become an integral part of official ceremonies and events, offering a profound moment of reflection on the enduring spiritual connection and ancient rituals of Aboriginal peoples.
Her contributions extended far beyond this singular, significant achievement. Roberts was the first Aboriginal host to grace mainstream television screens in Australia, a testament to her charisma and ability to connect with a broad audience. She also held pivotal roles in shaping Indigenous representation within major cultural institutions. She served as the inaugural head of Indigenous programming at the prestigious Sydney Opera House, a position where she championed First Nations artists and stories. Later, she became SBS’s first Elder-in-residence, further solidifying her influence in the media landscape.
The Roberts-Field family released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound sorrow: “The Roberts-Field family are heartbroken to announce that our beautiful Rhoda Roberts has returned to the Dreaming on Saturday, March 21, at 1pm. She passed peacefully in hospital after a seven-month fight with a very rare type of ovarian cancer.” The statement continued, painting a vivid picture of her character: “Rhoda will be deeply missed by all whose hearts she touched; she was an incredible person in so many ways. Words fail to capture the true love, depth, intelligence and warmth that was our beloved Rhoda.”
Her dedication to her heritage and her community was unwavering. “She dedicated her life to culture, Country and people from all walks of life,” her family stated. “She never judged and never discriminated; she always wanted to help uplift people’s lives and provide love and care. She faced so much trauma in her life, but continued fighting and never gave up. Her strength, dedication and pure love will forever be remembered. She helped make incredible, positive change for so many and for this Country.”
Details regarding a celebration of life for Ms. Roberts will be shared by her family once finalised. They have requested privacy and understanding as they navigate their grief and honour her remarkable legacy.
Ms. Roberts is survived by her partner, Stephen, and her children, Jack, Sarah, and Emily. Emily, though the biological child of her twin sister, was lovingly raised by Rhoda from infancy, a testament to her boundless capacity for love and care.
Tributes have flooded in from prominent figures across Australia. Indigenous singer and actress Casey Donovan expressed her devastation, stating, “What a voice for our people, our arts and for song women and men all over the country. Absolutely heartbroken to read this. The influence Aunty Rhoda has had on me and my career over the past 25 years has been absolutely life and career-changing. An extraordinary woman gone far too soon. Until we meet again in the promise land.”
Whadjuk Noongar journalist and commentator Narelda Jacobs echoed these sentiments, describing Roberts as “A leader and inspiration. Aunty Rhoda was wise, generous, kind, nurturing. She leaves our world a better place.”
Roberts’ impact on the arts and cultural landscape is undeniable. Her vision and leadership were instrumental in the founding and artistic direction of numerous significant festivals. These include:
- Festival of the Dreaming
- Sydney Dreaming Festival
- The Dreaming Festival (between 1995 and 2009)
She later co-founded and served as artistic director for the QPAC Clancestry Festival and held the role of festival director for the Garma Festival in 2010.
Even in the face of her illness, Roberts’ creative spirit burned brightly. In December of last year, she wrote and performed “My Cousin Frank” at the Sydney Opera House. This poignant work shared the story of her first cousin, Frank Roberts, a Widjabul Wieybal and Githabul man who made history as Australia’s first Aboriginal Olympian.
A skilled weaver, Roberts was also a captivating speaker, writer, and performer whose talents graced theatre, film, television, and radio both within Australia and on the international stage. Her legacy is one of profound cultural contribution, unwavering advocacy, and a deep, abiding love for her people and Country. She will be profoundly missed.
