You may not know that for many years veteran broadcaster and television personality Graham Webb lived across the road from Country singer Jimmy Little. Webby’s produced a moving tribute to his friend and neighbour who passed away on Monday. Another thing you may not know is that Jimmy left a legacy of empowering indigenous communities to take control of their health.
Listen here
to Graham Webb’s tribute to Jimmy Little.
You can contact Webby [email protected]
The following is a Joint statement from Close the Gap Campaign Co-Chairs, Mick Gooda and Jody Broun
Today we pay tribute to legendary Yorta Yorta and Yuin singer, Jimmy Little.
Jimmy’s more than 50-year contribution to Australian cultural life will live on forever as will his tireless work in empowering our people to take control of their health.
He and his foundation The Jimmy Little Foundation, were inaugural supporters of the Close the Gap Campaign for Indigenous Health Equality and over the years Jimmy regularly lent his personal support to the Close the Gap.
His work to make learning fun through the “Thumbs Up” good tucker programs to encourage kids to understand more about good food and exercise, will be a major part of his legacy.
Jimmy and the Foundation worked tirelessly to provide support to people who needed to leave their homes to seek medical treatment.
Jimmy broke so much ground for our people in so many ways; he touched hearts and minds of generations of Australians around the country with his gentle yet tenacious spirit.
He understood the challenges that confront our people and also knew that information was key to getting people on board to support the campaign and to lead healthier lives.
He never lost sight of his roots and the power of song and entertainment to get messages to the people.
Jimmy’s extraordinary life remains an inspiration to us all and his spirit lives on in so many ways within our country.
We acknowledge the deep sadness for Frances, James and the rest of his family and community and wish them strength dealing with the tough times ahead.