The Tasmanian Aboriginal community is working together to find the best way to memorialise the late Phyllis Pitchford.
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The respected elder, poet, author and activist passed away last week and has left a lasting legacy in Tasmania.
Aunty Phyllis received numerous honours throughout her life, including a NAIDOC award in 1992 and a place on the Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women in 2008 for her services to Aboriginal Affairs and the Arts.
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She continued to be an advocate for Aboriginal and women's rights in recent years, often attending candlelight vigils to protest domestic violence.
Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation chairman Michael Mansell said the community was in the process of discussing a memorial for Aunty Phyllis, but more consultation was needed to ensure it was appropriate.
"It's a great idea, we just need to work out the details," Mr Mansell said.
"We need to make sure the community is backing the form that it takes, we need a big community meeting and will see how we go."
It comes amid calls for the state government to step in and help fund Aunty Phyllis' funeral service.
A GoFundMe page was started by Aunty Phyllis' family to help pay for her funeral, and has raised more than half of its $3000 target.
However, friend of Aunty Phyilis and former state government minister Brian Wightman said he was "saddened" by the campaign.
"I was very sad that the family felt they had to raise money for such a wonderful community leader's funeral," he said.
"She did so much more for the community than she ever asked for, or ever received in return.
"I do not believe that the family should have to go to a GoFundMe page to pay for the funeral of such a significant community leader in Tasmania."
The sentiments were echoed by Mr Mansell who said the cost of funerals was exorbitant and government restrictions meant the community was unable to carry out traditional ceremonies.
"We can't bury or cremate our people the way we used to do", Mr Mansell said.
"Under the Aboriginal Lands Act, Aboriginal people can be buried freely in accordance to Aboriginal traditions, but only on the parcels of land we own.
"In other parts of Tasmania it is illegal."
When approached for comment, a spokesperson said the state government was not aware of any official request being made, however if one was to be made they would consider it accordingly.
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Sarah Davison
Education reporter at The Examiner, with an additional focus on issues affecting the LGBTQIA+ community. With a background in Psychology, Sarah completed her Master's thesis on the Australian media's coverage of familicide. Get in touch: sarah.davison@examiner.com.au or 0448 682 861
Education reporter at The Examiner, with an additional focus on issues affecting the LGBTQIA+ community. With a background in Psychology, Sarah completed her Master's thesis on the Australian media's coverage of familicide. Get in touch: sarah.davison@examiner.com.au or 0448 682 861
