Support for the family of Uncle Brian McKinnon

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of respected Elder Uncle Brian McKinnon (Dodd) of Noongar and the Amangu mob of the Yamatji Nation. Please support Brian's family with the urgent material costs of the funeral and for the family to return him back to Yamaji country in Western Australia for his resting place.

Uncle Brian McKinnon was born in Geraldton and grew up throughout the midwest, spending the past 44 years with his beloved wife Aunty Jill, living between Wathaurong country and various parts of Western Australia. Uncle Brian was a proud spiritual man, known in the community for having an open home, as well as for his sharing and teachings of cultural knowledge. He was involved in the Wathaurong Co Op since its early days, serving on their board at various times and running the Aboriginal art program there, and similar art programs over many years at different places. He was funny, warm, cheeky, charismatic, strong-willed, opinionated, generous and above all, he held a deep love for his family and community. He fiercely loved and made spaces for the queer community, and so many in the community loved him back.

Uncle Brian was a driven artist for more than 40 years, an Aboriginal arts educator at the NGV, and more recently a scholar. Uncle Brian was the inaugural Vice Chancellors Pre-doctoral Indigenous Research Fellow at the School of Art where he was a well respected colleague, mentor and friend to many staff and students.

Uncle Brian has left behind his beloved wife, Aunty Jill, who was by his side for over 44 years, his daughter Crystal, sons James and Richard, and grandchildren Emeline, Aria and Johnny.