LGBTIQ Health Australia (LHA) is deeply saddened to hear of the recent passing of Aunty Vanessa, Noongar Sistergirl of the Kaneang people in Western Australia.

Aunty Vanessa was an extraordinary advocate and pioneer for the rights and visibility of LGBTIQ Indigenous communities. Aunty Vanessa informed the work of LGBTIQ Health Australia for many years by ensuring representation of LGBTIQ Indigenous Brotherboy and Sistergirl communities.

LHA is extremely grateful to Aunty Vanessa for sharing her cultural wisdom, authenticity, and political passion, we are very much indebted to her and will continue to be guided by the wisdom she shared.

We offer her family, friends, and people our sincere condolences and acknowledge the many lives she has improved through her work.