PM pays tribute to Rhoda Roberts

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid tribute to Rhoda Roberts AO, a trailblazer in the media and across the creative arts, and fierce advocate for First Nations culture and voices, who passed away this weekend.

“Rhoda Roberts’ generosity enriched Australians’ lives, her wisdom enlarged our nation’s understanding,” the PM said.

“Her grace gifted to all of us a deeper sense of who we are and the extraordinary privilege we have to share this continent with the oldest continuous culture in the world.

“Rhoda made it easier for others to not just follow in her footsteps, but to continue the journey after her final one. That is power of her legacy and through it, Rhoda will always be with us.”

At the 2000 Sydney Olympics, when the world was watching, it was Rhoda’s choreography that took centre stage in the Opening Ceremony.

As creative director of the Awakening segment, she helped share Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures with Australia and the world, a Federal government statement said.

“Rhoda would go on to bring her creative vision to many festivals, including Garma in North East Arnhem Land, the country’s largest Indigenous gathering, and Parrtjima Festival in Alice Springs.”

Order of Australia

A proud Widjabul Wieybal woman of the Bundjalung nation, Aunty Rhoda was a fierce advocate for creating spaces for First Nations voices and perspectives to be heard in the media and creative arts.

Among the many honours during her long career, Rhoda received an Order of Australia in 2016 for distinguished service to the performing arts and her leadership, advocacy and promotion of contemporary Indigenous culture.

Last year, she was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the First Nations Media Awards.

Rhoda Roberts made an extraordinary contribution to our country. Australians have a better understanding of the world’s oldest living culture and our nation because of her.

On behalf of the government and all Australians, we extend our sympathy and condolences to Rhoda’s family, friends and loved ones.