Vic Chapman

Vic Chapman was awarded a bursary in 1944 when a teacher recognised his abilities. He completed high school in Dubbo and subsequently studied at a teachers’ college. Vic taught for many years and became a principal of Thirroul Public School, where he influenced many young lives. In his ‘retirement’, Vic trained as a ceramicist and printmaker, taught and mentored students, and received honorary fellowships and awards. He continues to work towards community understanding of Aboriginal culture and champions the teaching of Aboriginal Language to new generations.

The Power of One: Indigenous educator to be recognised with Honorary Fellowship

Teacher, Lay Preacher, and Revered Elder – An interview with Vic Chapman on ABC Radio National’s Awaye! Program

Listen to Vic’s Interview

Vic’s audio interview can be downloaded here.

Vic’s interview transcript.

Uncle Vic generously gifted one of his beautifully detailed art works now taking pride of place at the entry into Thirroul Library, for the local community to enjoy. The work details the story of “The Iguana and the Black Snake” as told by the Noongaburrah people from Lightning Ridge to Kate Langloh Parker, a friend and ally at Bangate Station, where Uncle Vic’s mother was born.

Keywords

Yuwaalaraay Man – Gamilaraay – Currawillinghi Sheep Station – Goodooga – Noongaburra – Patrick (Charles) Chapman – Lesia Chapman – Haddon Rig Merino Stud – Traditional Life – Hebel State School – Mr McKinnon (teacher) – Richmond Pastoral Family – Dubbo High School – Wagga Wagga Teachers’ College – Teacher – School Principal – Artist -Ceramics – Printmaking – Janet Matthews – COFA – Regulations – Language Revival – Community Involvement – Ruth Chapman – Elder Dharawal – Woonona – Pleasant Heights – Thirroul – Berkeley – Gwynneville and Waniora Public Schools – Murray Chapman – John Chapman – Cicada Press – Wollongong Art Gallery – COFA – Ceramics – Printmaking – Songs – Deaths In Custody – Black Lives Matter – Lay Preacher – Church – Grandchildren