Iris Bysouth

Aunty Iris Bysouth is a proud Baarkindji woman and Elder who calls Bendigo home. Aunty Iris and her husband Roger have been married for 55 years, and have 4 children, 18 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Aunty Iris is a survivor of the Stolen Generations who has dedicated her life to supporting Aboriginal people in Victoria. When she was taken from her family in the early 1960s, Aunty Iris spoke 3 languages. She has spent her life reconnecting to culture and language, while also helping others on their journey to reconnect to community.

After working on farms from an early age, Aunty Iris got her first office job with the Labor MP, David Hasset (member for Dromana) in the early 1980s. She was a young mother with 4 little children when she took a chance on applying for the role. Aunty Iris then went to work for the Australian Government where she stayed at the Commonwealth Employment Service for 28 years. Aunty Iris then worked at the Dandenong & District Aborigines Co-Operative Limited (DDACL). She was a board member of DDACL and is now a lifetime member. She also serves the community she was born to, proudly representing her mother and father as a member of the Native Title Group Aboriginal Corporation.

Aunty Iris moved to Bendigo in 2011 and has served the community there in many roles, including Chairperson of the Bendigo and District Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC). She was also the Koorie Liaison Officer at the former Malmsbury Youth Justice Centre, working with young men in prison. Aunty Iris also provides out-of-home emergency care and support for young people who are at risk.

Aunty Iris has worked in the Bringing Them Home program at BDAC for many years. Her current role is focused on helping people affected by Stolen Generations policies, but her service to the community goes far beyond her professional responsibilities. She believes in compassion, dedication and the healing power of culture and community. Her work has had a lasting impact on many lives, reconnecting individuals with their culture and heritage. Aunty Iris helps those affected by the Stolen Generations by helping people find their families and reclaim their cultural identity.

Aunty Iris provides a safe space for people to share their stories, grieve and heal. She empowers people to reclaim their confidence and self-worth, giving them a voice when they have been silenced. Aunty Iris believes in doing things that will help people. When new families come to town or have a hard time, Aunty Iris is there with a home cooked meal and a helping hand. She also supports the Koori Courts and Aboriginal women's groups.

As an Elder, Aunty Iris sets an example for younger generations. Her leadership, care, and wisdom provide guidance not only to her local community but also to the wider Aboriginal community. She promotes cultural pride, helping others see how important Aboriginal identity is for healing. Aunty Iris takes an active role in supporting other Elders and ensuring there are opportunities to pass on culture and language.

Aunty Iris is committed to preserving and strengthening Aboriginal culture. By fostering a strong sense of belonging and cultural identity, she plays a crucial role in the survival of Aboriginal traditions, stories and values. For decades she has led an award winning dance group, One Dreamtime, which has taught many young people cultural knowledge and has toured the world.

Aunty Iris has made a significant contribution to addressing the ongoing effects of the Stolen Generations. She works to repair the damage caused by Stolen Generations policies by facilitating family reunions, providing counselling and support and creating a culturally strong community that can support its members. Her efforts have helped many individuals rebuild relationships with their families and communities, restoring a sense of belonging that was once lost.

Aunty Iris’ advocacy for the rights of Aboriginal peoples continues to make a difference, ensuring that the voices of Aboriginal people are heard and respected by local services, government and in courts. Her work with BDAC has been vital in ensuring that people affected by the Stolen Generations can reconnect with their families and culture. She is a trusted guide for those navigating mainstream services. Whether assisting with forms, attending appointments, or advocating for better access to healthcare, housing and education, Aunty Iris is focused on making sure people can find the support they need.

In recognition of her outstanding and longtime contributions to community, Aunty Iris was awarded the 2018 Victorian Senior of the Year Award. This honour highlights the lasting positive impact she has had on her community and her dedication to improving the lives of Aboriginal people.

Aunty Iris's work exemplifies the power of cultural leadership and care. Her tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication have made her a pillar of strength for Aboriginal people in Victoria. Aunty Iris believes that Elder’s stories are essential to the strength of Aboriginal communities. Ensuring that those stories are shared with the wider community and mainstream organisations is one way that Aunty Iris believes more people will understand and respect Aboriginal people and culture. But even more important is Aboriginal peoples’ own sense of belonging. That, says Aunty Iris, can only come from being back on Country.