OutBlack Founder Dies Suddenly

Local News, By Travis de Jonk, 27th October, 2009

Indigenous leader, gay activist and performer Ron Johnson died suddenly last Monday 19th October following a heart attack, aged just 52. Johnson played many significant roles in his short but powerful life including being a founder of OutBlack; A social support group that has been going for 12 years and still continues to raise awareness of Gay and Lesbian issues both within and outside the Aboriginal, Koorie and related Indigenous communities. He was key in maintaining Indigenous visibility at key queer cultural events over the years. As well as a campaigner for Indigenous rights and key issues like health and reconciliation, he was a staunch supporter of queer Australians of every colour.

Johnson served in the Australian Defence Force as well as a number of consultation and advisory positions including working as an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Officer and in Victoria’s Native Title Services.

While a heart condition was apparently already known, the death still came as a sudden shock to friends and family alike. Ron leaves behind his partner Grant Beattie, as well as an extended family and a community in which he was much loved, respected and will be remembered for many of his contributions, especially the drag character of his own creation, Miss Yukkai [ pictured second ]

A funeral was held for Ron Johnson at the Aboriginal Advancement League in Thornbury this morning followed by a wake at the Aboriginal Advancement League.
His body was laid to rest at the Weeroona Aboriginal Cemetary in Greenvale.

Outblack will continue to hold events around Melbourne. To find out more click here.