Farewell: Archie Roach will be farewelled at a private funeral after his death at age 66. Photo: AAP/Tracey Nearmy
Photo by
TRACEY NEARMY
Mooroopna-born Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung Senior Elder, songman and storyteller Archie Roach AM has died surrounded by family, aged 66.
In recent years he had battled a stroke and lung cancer.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
A member for Stolen Generation, Mr Roach was removed from his family at two and placed in an orphanage.
His experience, and the repercussions that led to substance abuse and homelessness became the powerful substance of his debut 1990 album Charcoal Road, including the award-winning song Took The Children Away.
Mr Roach’s children, Amos and Eban Roach, have given permission for his name, image and music to be used, so that his legacy continued to inspire.
“Archie wanted all of his many fans to know how much he loves you for supporting him along the way,” his family said in a statement.
“We are so proud of everything our dad achieved in his remarkable life.
“He was a healer and unifying force. His music brought people together.”
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said few people have put the pain, the suffering, the hope and the pride of Aboriginal people into words like Mr Roach.
“His music is remarkable because it tells a remarkable story. His own story,” he said.
“When Took The Children Away was performed for the first time it was met with a stunned silence before the raucous applause and it would go on to become the first song to ever be recognised with a Human Rights Achievement Award.”
Mr Roach released 10 albums, poetry, a children's book and his own memoir.
He toured constantly with his partner Ruby Hunter, who he credited with saving him from the streets and giving him the strength to tell his story.
Mr Roach could headline festivals, but he was also comfortable telling his story in more intimate settings like a cultural event at Rumbalara or singing for a class at Mooroopna Primary School.
“Archie never stopped fighting for the Stolen Generations to be heard, and listened to.” Mr Andrews said.
Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter at Mooroopna Park Primary School in 1999 during one of their many visits to the region where he was born.
In 2015, Mr Roach was made a Member of the Order of Australia for services to music as a singer-songwriter, guitarist and a prominent supporter of social justice.
Mr Roach said music had the power to draw people in more than someone banging their fists on a soap box.
‘‘It’s a great catalyst for change,’’ he said.
‘‘It doesn’t change governments, but it can change people.’’
Even during COVID-19 he was hosting virtual round table discussions with emerging First Nations musicians.
‘‘We need to express, and talk about the progress that has been made and be happy about that — about the good that’s been done so far,’’ Mr Roach told The News in 2020.
‘‘At a grassroots level, people are more aware.
“And truth-telling, sharing with younger and interested people helps us heal as a whole, as a nation.
Mr Roach will be farewelled at a private family funeral.
