The Australian arts and cultural landscape is mourning the loss of Rhoda Roberts, the pioneering First Nations figure who famously coined the phrase 'Welcome to Country'. Ms Roberts passed away peacefully in hospital on Saturday, March 21, at 1pm, following a seven-month struggle with a very rare form of ovarian cancer. She was 66 years old.
A Life of Groundbreaking Achievement
Rhoda Roberts, a Widjabul Wieybal woman of the Bundjalung Nation, was a true trailblazer. Her remarkable career included being the first Aboriginal host on mainstream Australian television. She also served as the inaugural head of Indigenous programming at the iconic Sydney Opera House and held the position of SBS's first Elder-in-residence, breaking barriers and setting new precedents for Indigenous representation.
Family's Heartfelt Statement
A statement released by the Roberts-Field family on social media conveyed their profound grief. "The Roberts-Field family are heartbroken to announce that our beautiful Rhoda Roberts has returned to the Dreaming," the statement read. "She passed peacefully in hospital after a seven month fight with a very rare type of ovarian cancer."
The family's tribute painted a picture of an extraordinary individual: "Rhoda will be deeply missed by all whose hearts she touched, she was an incredible person in so many ways. Words fail to capture the true love, depth, intelligence and warmth that was our beloved Rhoda."
A Legacy of Love and Upliftment
The statement further highlighted her lifelong dedication: "She dedicated her life to culture, country and people from all walks of life. She never judged and never discriminated, she always wanted to help uplift people's lives and provide love and care." It also acknowledged her resilience: "She faced so much trauma in her life, but continued fighting and never gave up. Her strength, dedication and pure love will forever be remembered."
Concluding, the family emphasized her national impact: "She helped make incredible, positive change for so many and for this Country." The family has requested privacy and understanding as they navigate their grief and plan a celebration of her life, promising to share details once finalised.
An Outpouring of Tributes
News of her passing has prompted an immediate and emotional response from across the community. Indigenous singer and actress Casey Donovan was among the first to pay tribute, commenting on the family's social media post.
"What a voice for our people, our arts and for song women and men all over the world. Absolutely heartbroken to read this," Donovan wrote. She reflected on Roberts' personal influence: "The influence Aunty Rhoda has had on me and my career over the past 25 years has been absolutely life and career changing. An extraordinary woman gone far too soon. Until we meet again in the promise land."
Rhoda Roberts' creation of the 'Welcome to Country' protocol has become a fundamental and respected practice across Australia, embedding recognition of First Nations peoples into national ceremonies and events. Her passing marks the end of a life dedicated to cultural advocacy, artistic leadership, and unifying all Australians.
