Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s are advised that this article contains images and references of a deceased person.
A much-loved and proud local Indigenous leader and musician has passed away after a short battle with kidney cancer.
Norm Stanley was diagnosed just days before Christmas last year, with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation announcing his passing on Thursday morning.
The father-of-five married his wife, Nikki, in November and was well-known across the Geelong community as an artist, regularly featuring at Welcome to Country ceremonies playing the didgeridoo.
“We acknowledge the pain and sadness felt by our First Nations community, and the wider community, with the passing of Norm Stanley,” a post on the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Facebook page read.
“We recognize Norm’s huge contribution to Ceremonies, Art, Education and Culture.
“We say Nyatne (thank you) for everything he did with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, where he was always well respected and valued – he will be dearly missed.
“We send our condolences, love and support to Wadawurrung Woman Nikki Stanley and children, and to all Norm’s family and the community.”
