Aboriginal Anglican priest and celebrated artist Y. Nunggumajbarr passes away

Reverend Y. Nunggumajbarr passed away at Gove District Hospital following a battle with cancer. Ordained as an Anglican priest in 2009 during a ceremony in Numbulwar, she spent over ten years leading services in Angurugu and Numbulwar before stepping down in 2023. Her early life included training at Nungalinya College, where she studied theology and linguistics, and a childhood spent moving between the Roper River Mission and Ngukurr.

Beyond her ministry, she was a prolific pandanus weaver and painter, contributing to the Numbulwar Numburindi Art Centre and sharing her cultural narratives through art. Colleagues highlighted her strong presence, storytelling, and the way her creations reflected her community’s heritage. The Anglican leadership recognized her long, faithful service and hoped her example would inspire future generations. She leaves behind a large family and a lasting cultural legacy.