Essie Coffey was an Australian actor known for her work in “Backroads,” “My Survival as an Aboriginal,” and “My Life As I Live It.” She was a prominent Muruwari woman who made significant contributions to the Aboriginal community and advocacy.
Personal and Family Life
Essie Coffey was born near Goodooga in Northern New South Wales. She was a Muruwari woman who, along with her family, managed to avoid forced relocation to a reserve by participating in seasonal rural work. Essie and her husband, Albert “Doc” Coffey, raised eight children and adopted ten more, demonstrating a strong commitment to family and community values.
Career and Activism
Coffey co-founded the Western Aboriginal Legal Service and the Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Museum in Brewarrina. She served on various government bodies and Aboriginal community organizations, including the Aboriginal Lands Trust and the Aboriginal Advisory Council. Additionally, she was an inaugural member of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation and earned a Medal of the Order of Australia on June 10, 1985, for her dedication to the Aboriginal community.
Death and Legacy
Essie Coffey passed away on January 3, 1998, in New South Wales, Australia. She is remembered for her significant contributions to film and Aboriginal advocacy, leaving a lasting impact on her community and beyond. Her work, especially in documentary filmmaking, continues to inspire future generations.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Backroads | 1977-06-27 | Aboriginal Woman |
| My Survival as an Aboriginal | 1979-07-10 | Self |
| My Life As I Live It | 1993-12-11 | Self |