Congratulations Aunty McRose Elu

The 2021 Queensland Australian of the Year recipients have been announced – see our article at https://www.ownqld.net.au/2021-australian-of-the-year-awards-queensland-recipients/

OWN Qld would especially like to congratulate Aunty McRose Elu who was the Queensland State Recipient:  Senior Australian of the Year 2021.

Torres Strait Island Elder McRose Elu is a tireless advocate for her community. She has an unwavering vision to bring about change to better the lives of children and families.

McRose is committed to reconciliation and sharing the traditional practices of her people at local, state and federal levels. She was instrumental in negotiations to legally recognise the traditional customary adoption practices of Torres Strait Islander families – which led to the introduction of a landmark Bill to the Queensland Parliament.

Since 1980, McRose has been drawing global attention to the impact of climate change on the Torres Strait, including speaking at the UN and to business and political leaders. As a member of the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change (ARCC), she advocates for renewable energy and sustainable methods of production.

McRose also provides essential translation for Torres Strait Islander communities to help them access services and lobbies for funding to support community capacity building.