Elizabeth Ann Kelly (née King) or Lizzy as she is affectionately known, was born in 1945, the last child born on the Menindee Mission before it was closed. At the closure of the Menindee Mission, Lizzy moved with her family to Murrin Bridge for some years but later returned to Menindee.

Lizzy attended Menindee Central School, got married and had five children which she raised after the death of her husband. She had another child with her partner some years later.

Lizzy raised her six children in Menindee and provided them with a good education and home. She held the position of Secretary at Nyampa Aboriginal Housing Company for some years and was always involved in the Menindee Central School Mothers Club and assisted in making improvements in the community. In about 1988, with her older children all successfully educated and in the workforce, Lizzy moved with her partner and youngest child to Bourke.

Moving to Bourke gave Lizzy the opportunity for employment and to gain an education and qualifications in health. Her achievements were amazing and something that made both her and her children extremely proud. Liz was employed as a health care nurse with field duties and graduated with her nursing qualifications in 2000.

Following this she completed a bridging course in Maternal Health and then extended her studies and gained an Associate Diploma in Community Development and Health at Sydney University. As a mature-age student Lizzy was diligent in her studies and was able to achieve the educational levels that had previously precluded her.

She completed her studies whilst maintaining a full—time position and her household; this demonstrates the strength and commitment that we are so proud of.

Illness unfortunately struck and Lizzy suffered a stroke and permanent damage. She was no longer able to work or to be as active as she would like. Once again, she has returned home to Menindee to be closer to her family.

Lizzy has always been a strong support for her family and her nieces and nephews. Her six children and 14 grandchildren have seen their mother and grandmother as a strong role model who has provided them with the support and guidance in their lives.

From the book Menindee’s Unsung Aboriginal Heroes’ Menindee Central School