By Peter Douglas
COMMUNITY leader and Elder Doseena Fergie has joined a select group after receiving a place on the 2016 Victorian Honour Roll of Women.
After gaining a nomination from Yarra Ranges Council, Doseena has been accepted into this year’s roll, which acknowledges exceptional women who have contributed significantly to their community.
Ms Fergie is best known for her key role in helping to establish the Healesville Indigenous Community Services Association (HICSA), as well as her commitment to working for the betterment of the local Indigenous community.
During Council’s 27 January meeting, Cr Fiona McAlister encouraged the community to celebrate this achievement.
Cr McAlister described Ms Fergie as a wonderful community leader, who is persistent, modest and fair.
“I’ve watched her gently guiding and listening and sharing her insights and knowledge, but also her firm side as well,” Cr McAlister said.
“She is certainly someone you know you will get a good thorough debate with and she has a wonderful balance in her styles.”
Cr McAlister said her contributions extended beyond HICSA.
“She has helped us at Council develop (our) reconciliation direction, in particular the focus that we have in Indigenous ways of knowing and cultural strengthening.
“This is a significant shift and incredibly positive.”
Since its commencement in 2001, the Victorian Honour Roll of Women has celebrated the achievements of more than 500 women.
Inductees have contributed to lasting change in Victoria, Australia and internationally through many fields.
Councillors Jim Child and Noel Cliff joined in the acknowledgement.
“To me (she) gave an impression of a quiet-achiever but she did so much … and I think she leaves a living legacy and I think she is going to contribute much, much more,” Cr Child said.
Cr McAlister agreed there is plenty more to come from the recipient.
“She’s created a huge and very positive change in so many aspects of community life and her role as an Indigenous leader and a woman in a leadership role is absolutely outstanding,” Cr McAlister said.
