Search

Yawuru leader Tony Lee steps down as chair of Indigenous publishing house Magabala Books

Brendan Foster -

After 21 years, Yawuru leader Tony Lee has stepped down as the chair of Australia's only First Nations publishing house, Magabala Books.

Following Mr Lee's departure, Magabala Books deputy chair and Marda Marda man, Steve Kinnane will take on the role of chairperson.

The Broome-based publisher's director Margy Dia will also step down after nine years.

It comes on the back of former director Clinton Benjamin departing the WA business earlier this year.

Magabala welcomes three new directors: Bardi, Kija education expert Shaz Davis; Nimunburr and Kija education specialist Abby-Rose Cox; and Bardi Jawi woman Marlee Hutton, who has a background in ecology and marine science.

Magabala chief executive, Lilly Brown said Mr Lee's legacy with this organisation was far-reaching and felt at every level.

"His personal relationships with our staff, the many events he has attended and the creators he has supported: all this is testament to his dedication in leading Magabala and upholding our founding Elders' vision," she said.

"We are incredibly lucky that Marda Marda man from Mirrowoong Country, Steve Kinnane, formally the deputy chair, is stepping into the role of chairperson.

"Steve has been with Magabala for many years and will bring his expertise as an author and researcher to the role.

"After almost a decade of committed service to Magabala, we are also farewelling our lovely director Margy Dia. And I would also like to thank Clinton for the four years he dedicated to Magabala."

Magabala Books was established 40 years ago after more than 500 Aboriginal Elders met in the Kimberley to discuss how to keep First Nations culture strong and to protect the intellectual property and culture of Indigenous people.

During that time, it has produced more than 250 titles of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander authors, artists and illustrators including Alexis Wright, Ali Cobby-Eckermann and Alison Whittaker.

In May, the First Nations publishing company won the Small Publisher of the Year category at the awards ceremony in Naarm/Melbourne.

   Related   

   Brendan Foster   

Download our App

Article Audio

National Indigenous Times