Djerrkura, Gatjil

▪ 2005

      Australian Aboriginal leader (b. June 30, 1949, Yirrkala Mission, East Arnhem Land, N.Terr., Australia—d. May 26, 2004, Nhulunbuy, East Arnhem Land), was hereditary leader in the Yolngu Wangurri clan. He devoted his life to the economic, social, and political advancement of Australia's indigenous people and to reconciliation with the federal government, notably as chairman (1996–99) of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC). Djerrkura was one of the first Aboriginals to attend the South Australian Institute of Technology. His success as the head (1986–96) of the Yirrkala Business Enterprises and as chairman (1990–96) of the ATSIC Commercial Development Corp. brought him national attention. Djerrkura's other posts included chairman of the Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education, chairman of the board of the Indigenous Land Corp., and delegate to the 1998 Australian Constitutional Convention. He was awarded a Medal in the Order of Australia in 1984.

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