We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of one of our most influential and loved Matriarchs, Aunty Fay Carter.
A life member of VACCA, Aunty Fay served 11 years as a Board member, ten of which were spent as Chairperson. Aunty Fay was instrumental in the drafting and implementation of the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle.
Aunty Fay was the first Aboriginal Family Led Decision Making Elder for VACCA and created the quality standards for this process. Aunty Fay brought recognition of the invaluable role Elders play in keeping children safe and will be her lasting legacy.
A true leader, Aunty Fay together with Aunty Iris Gardiner and Elders established the Aboriginal Community Elders Service (ACES), the first Aboriginal-controlled community organisation of its kind in Victoria.
Aunty Fay was CEO of ACES for 16years and went on to serve as a Board Member up until her passing. Her ability to draw from and address the issues and challenges experienced by Elders in accessing services were groundbreaking.
Aunty Fay engaged many across our community in understanding the strengths of our Elders and worked with Yapperra to have children sing to Elders and share in story telling.
Aunty Fay also showed us that it’s never too late to learn, and that with perseverance and hard work you can achieve great things. She will remain a true inspiration and is the reason many in community joined ACCO Boards to give back to community and strive for excellence.
Aunty Fay was a generous and loving Matriarch of the Dja Dja Wurrung peoples and was key in their achieving native title recognition.
Aunty Fay is survived by her family and grandchildren and we pass on our condolences and thank you for sharing her with us.
Aunty Fay’s legacy will be a lasting one. We celebrate your life’s work and honour your contribution to making Aboriginal Victoria a better place.
Rest in peace Aunty Fay.