Edward Koiki Mabo       by Emma

Biography             Introduction

Edward Mabo was born in 1936 on one of the Murray islands. He was a man who fought for Aboriginal land rights.

 

Illustration By Emma 

 When Edward Mabo was 23, he married Bonita Nehow in 1956. She was only 16 and they had nine children. Edward Mabo became a successful man who rallied the people for aboriginal land rights, this case lasted over ten years. Edward Mabo died in 1992 on the 21st   of January and became famous six months after his death for being a successful principle plaintiff for aboriginal land rights.

The Australian newspaper elected Edward Mabo as Australian of the Year on the 26th of January in 1993

Before Edward Mabo died he was very successful in a lot of areas of work. In 1967 helped organise a seminar in Townsville about how we are Australians and what will follow the Referendum? Worked as a gardener and groundsman at James Cook University in 1967-1971.

In 1974 became a member of the Aboriginal arts council.

In 1981 pursued diploma of Teacher at Townsville college of Advanced Education/James Cook University.

 Worked for Townsville Harbour Board in 1962.

Member of National Aboriginal Education Committee in 1975-1978.

In 1978-1979 he became a member of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal studies Education Advisory Committee.

In 1986-1987 he became director of ABIS Community Cooperative Society Ltd in Townsville.

About Edward's Family

Edward's dad was called Sambo. Edward's mum was called Annie. She died in childbirth so Edward stayed with his Uncle Benny Mabo and Aunt Maiga.