Council Names Reserve to Honour Marjorie Tripp AO
Marjorie Tripp Reserve to honour respected Ramindjeri Elder and community advocate.
The City of Victor Harbor has formally resolved to name the reserve at 30 Yalladoola Road, Victor Harbor, Marjorie Tripp Reserve, recognising the life and contribution of one of the region's most respected Aboriginal leaders, advocates and servicewomen.
The naming follows Council's resolution of 28 September 2026 and has been publicly notified in accordance with section 219(1) of the Local Government Act 1999. The reserve comprises land identified as CT6294/759 and CT6294/762.
Raised in Victor Harbor, Marjorie maintained a lifelong connection to Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula.
At just 17 years of age, Ms Tripp became the first Aboriginal woman to join the Women's Royal Australian Naval Service in 1963. After leaving the Navy, she spent decades championing for better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, across the state and nationally.
She played a significant role in advancing Aboriginal health and aged care, to ensure culturally appropriate services and better outcomes for her community. Her contributions to policy, programs, and systems continue to benefit Aboriginal people today.
Marjorie was also iinstrumental in establishing key organisations including the Council of Aboriginal Elders of South Australia and the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. She served as an ATSIC Regional Councillor for nine years, advocating strongly for her community.
She was a passionate campaigner for the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women and as Chair of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander War Memorial Committee, Marjorie led national efforts to raise awareness, secure funding, and ultimately deliver the memorial at Torrens Parade Ground. This stands as a lasting national tribute to Indigenous service personnel.
Her commitment to service and community was later recognised through numerous honours, including her appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia, the Centenary Medal, the South Australian Premier's NAIDOC Award, and the Gladys Elphick Award.
The reserve naming acknowledges both Ms Tripp's significant contribution to Australian society and her enduring connection to Victor Harbor. The site is a four-acre conservation reserve acquired by Council in 2024 to protect the environmentally significant area of remnant bushland and native wildlife, which is now protected under a Heritage Agreement.
Mayor Moira Jenkins said the naming was a fitting tribute to one of Victor Harbor's most respected community figures.
"Marjorie Tripp was a highly respected Elder, advocate and community leader whose contribution reached far beyond Victor Harbor.
"She was passionate about supporting others and worked tirelessly to advance recognition and opportunities for Aboriginal people throughout her life.
"Importantly, she maintained a strong connection to Victor Harbor and the Fleurieu Peninsula. Naming this reserve in her honour acknowledges that connection and recognises the lasting contribution she made to our community and to the wider Australian community.
"Public places help tell the story of our community. This naming ensures Marjorie Tripp's contribution will continue to be recognised and remembered by future generations."
For more information refer to the public notice: Notice of Naming of Reserve: Marjorie Tripp Reserve | Victor Harbor City Council