Australia is home to the oldest continuing cultural practise in the world.
This simple sentence underpins both a profound reality and the life of John Christophersen, a powerful advocate for Indigenous and environmental rights who passed away recently in the Northern Territory.
'Christo' was a man of many parts - as at home in front of an audience or a camera as he was in the bush or a boat.
He was a passionate and effective advocate for Aboriginal land and sea rights, a fierce opponent of the nuclear industry, handy with tools that ranged from an arc-welder to a spear, and an entertaining and insightful story-teller.
His extensive resumé included time as an Australian Conservation Foundation councillor and a longer time as a patient and generous bridge-builder who sought to braid and advance black and green aspirations, and concerns.
He was a tireless champion in tiring times who made a real difference - and he will be missed.
ACF sends our sympathy and our thanks to Christo’s family and many friends.
This eulogy appeared in the NT News with the approval of the Christophersen family.
