The Uluru Dialogue would like to acknowledge the incredible life of Wotjobaluk Elder Uncle Kevin Coombs OAM and mourn his passing last week.

Uncle Kevin was Australia’s first Aboriginal Paralympic competitor, competing in wheelchair basketball at the inaugural Rome Games in 1960 and then in four other Paralympic Games.

Uncle Kevin was much more than this, however. Revered both on and off the court, so much so that the Uncle Kevin Coombs Medal is awarded at the end of each Paralympics year to the Australian competitor who best personifies his spirit and determination.

Uncle Kevin dedicated his life to family and community and his contributions to the Victorian and Australian Aboriginal community, along with the broader Australian community, will continue to have impact beyond his time with us.

We know he will be missed by many, and we send much love to his friends and family, especially his wife, daughters and their families and children.

We especially extend our condolences to Janine Coombs, a valued member of The Uluru Dialogue and an Uluru Statement from the Heart signatory.