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Friday September 28 2007, Media Release

THE PASSING OF A GREAT FIGHTER

The Land Rights Network in New South Wales and throughout Australia will be profoundly saddened today with the news of the untimely passing of Manul Ritchie, a former Chairperson of NSW Aboriginal Land Council.

Manul was a great fighter and a passionate and forthright defender of the rights of our people throughout an active personal and political life.

Many of you in the network will remember his wit, humour and intellect, we will all be the poorer for his passing.

Most people would be aware he was a long serving NSWALC Councillor and was instrumental among others, in keeping our land rights strong not only in New South Wales but Australia as a whole.

Manul was particularly active in recent months in his own community and elsewhere including his opposition to the invasive aspects of the Howard government’s intervention in the Northern Territory.

His profound contribution and commitment will not go unheralded and I am sure I speak for many who will ensure that he will be remembered.

His campaigns, his exploits and his ongoing support and guidance to many people over many years will I am sure be talked about in our meetings, and around our campfires for many years to come.

Our thoughts are with his family at this time.

Bev Manton
Chairperson
NSWALC