Indigenous Wallabies trailblazer Lloyd McDermott dies at 79
The Australian rugby community is in mourning after the passing of one of the nation’s first Indigenous Wallabies, Lloyd McDermott.
A trailblazing figure and proud Aboriginal ‘Mununjali and Waka Waka’ man, the universally respected McDermott passed away on Saturday at his home in Sydney, aged 79.
“The Rugby community is deeply saddened by the news of Lloyd’s passing, however, his impact on the sport will never be lost and his name will never fade. He was an extraordinary man,” RA chief executive officer Raelene Castle said.
News of his passing saw tributes flood in on social media, with some fans debating whether McDermott was the first or second Indigenous player to represent the Wallabies.
Trailblazing figure and proud Aboriginal 'Mununjali and Waka Waka' man Lloyd McDermott has passed away at 79.
Our thoughts & prayers are with his family and friends, and the wider Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. https://t.co/VuH62vUpAs
— Qantas Wallabies (@qantaswallabies) April 7, 2019
Sad news that Lloyd McDermott has died. Aged 79. Second indigenous Australian to play for Wallabies in rugby union. He refused selection for 1963 tour to South Africa because he did not want to make the trip as an “honorary white”. First indigenous barrister ever in Australia.
— Wayne Keith Smith (@WayneKeithSmith) April 7, 2019
Past, present, future.
Indigenous Wallaby Lloyd McDermott has passed away at 79. Sad news.
I’d love to see at least an element of the indigenous jersey on the Wallabies jersey every time Australia play. pic.twitter.com/80AxMrObwD
— Christy Doran (@ChristypDoran) April 7, 2019
RIP the great Lloyd McDermott. The first man to identify as Aboriginal to play for the @qantaswallabies. Also our first Indigenous lawyer. An inspiration and just a lovely bloke.
— Michael Earsman (@mickearsman) April 7, 2019
Saddened to hear of the passing of Australia’s first indigenous Wallaby Lloyd McDermott. He leaves a wonderful legacy. Thoughts are with his Family and Friends
— Greg Clark (@greg_clarkie) April 7, 2019
The Australian Rugby community is mourning the passing of Australia’s first indigenous Wallaby Lloyd McDermott. Vale Wallaby #470. pic.twitter.com/hnFjwZsAfz
— Classic Wallabies (@ClassicWallaby) April 7, 2019
Former Wallaby and proud Indigenous legend Gary Ella said McDermott has left a massive legacy on the sport of rugby union.
“Lloyd will be sorely missed by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities,” Ella said.
“His legacy is not just his work in promoting sport to young people it is also about equality in opportunities for young people.
“The Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Team’s objectives are based on Lloyd’s leadership of creating education and opportunities for young people and supporting them to make positive lifestyle decisions.
“Lloyd’s work has positively influenced thousands of young Indigenous people around Australia.
“A proud, but humble man he refused to accept Australia Day honours on several occasions until the rights of Aboriginal people were recognised.
“We will miss a close friend and we are inspired to continue our work.”
With AAP
