Tribute to Great Southern personality Sydney Penny

27/1/94

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Kevin Prince today paid tribute to the work of respected Great Southern personality Mr Sydney Penny, who passed away last weekend.

Mr Prince, who attended Mr Penny's funeral in Albany today, said Mr Penny worked for more than ten years with the Aboriginal Housing Board.

"Mr Penny was widely respected for his efforts in working closely with Homeswest for better housing for the Noongar people, and for standing up for their rights," the Minister said.

"On behalf of the Ministry, and particularly the Aboriginal Housing Board, I pass on condolences to Mr Penny's family and assure them his fine work will not be forgotten."

Mr Penny was very community-minded and did extensive voluntary work.  He was a committee member of the Southern Aboriginal Corporation and was instrumental in having community housing established at Redmond, with the Redmond Aboriginal Corporation.

"Syd Penny worked tirelessly for the benefit of his people and the community in general, and will be sorely missed."

Media contact:  Ross Storey 222 9595