THE KEVIN COOK LECTURE
On 26 January 2009, the Chairperson of NSWALC Bev Manton proudly delivered the Inaugural Kevin Cook Lecture at the Yabun Festival in Sydney's Victoria Park. [click here to see photos of the 2009 Kevin Cook Lecture]
Named in honour of Kevin Cook, the annual lecture is aimed at reinvigorating the debate and fight for the Rights and Advocacy for Aboriginal People of NSW and across Australia.
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Kevin Cook was the General Secretary of Tranby Aboriginal College and the first elected Chairperson of NSWALC. In the mid 70s, Kevin used the political and organisational skills honed in the trade union movement to effectively campaign for the introduction of what became the first ever Land Rights Act in NSW. NSWALC was formed in 1977 out of the Black Defence Group which never stopped campaigning for recognition of our dispossession. Kevin never sought personal recognition for his pivotal role in the struggles through the seventies and beyond. |
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This annual lecture acknowledges his work and commitment in the struggle for Aboriginal Rights in NSW over the last 50 years. Although now retired, Kevin -- and his partner Judy -- are still active in the ongoing fight for a better deal for our people.
It is hoped that the annual Kevin Cook Lecture will inspire the next generation of fighters and leaders to emerge and continue Kevin's wonderful work.
The inaugural Kevin Cook Lecture was co-sponsored by the Tranby Aboriginal College.