Magabala is deeply saddened at the passing of Aunty Ruth Simms OAM, a wonderful author and storyteller, respected Elder, and one of New South Wales’s most beloved educators. 

Aunty Ruth was the co-author of Muttonfish Magic, sharing a delightful story from her childhood with the help of collaborator Lucy Robertson. The book was beautifully illustrated by award-winning Dharug creator Jasmine Seymour.

Aunty Ruth was born on The Reserve in La Perouse in 1941 as one of nine children. She grew up with a strong connection to both Larpa and Jerrinja communities and from a young age she learnt about traditional bush foods, language and medicines and went to sleep on ‘goonjarn’ stories (ancient spirit stories).

She was NSW’s longest serving Aboriginal Education Officer and was a loved and respected member of the NSW Department of Education. Her greatest joy and passion was to share First Nations perspectives with students.

In 2012, Aunty Ruth was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her contributions to education. Because of her, there are generations of children who share a closer connection to Aboriginal people and Culture.

After her death, there has been an outpouring of grief and love from her Shoalhaven community, where the Council flew their flags at half-mast and many people shared their fond memories of her on social media.

We are in awe of Aunty Ruth and how she dedicated her life to sharing her stories and making the world a better place. She was so happy to have published her first book and loved seeing children engage with it.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to Aunty Ruth’s family, friends and community. We know she is so deeply loved and dearly missed.

Photo of Aunty Ruth by Saltwater Shutter - Jack Ardler.