Murial Stewart

Muriel Pearl Stewart (nee Cooley) was a proud Yuin woman, artist, and respected Elder whose leadership and compassion left a lasting mark on Aboriginal communities in New South Wales. Born and raised on the South Coast, Muriel was deeply rooted in Yuin Country and Culture. Her life’s work reflected her belief in justice, equality, and the strength of community.

In the early 1980s, Muriel made history as the first Aboriginal woman to be appointed a Justice of the Peace in New South Wales, a role through which she championed fairness and advocated for the rights of Aboriginal people within the legal and civic spaces that had long excluded them. Her leadership was widely recognised when she was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 1983 Australia Day Honours, acknowledging her outstanding service to Aboriginal welfare and community development.

Muriel was also a talented artist, celebrated for her paintings that reflected her connection to Country and storytelling traditions. Through her art and advocacy, she encouraged pride in cultural identity and promoted understanding across communities.

A mother, mentor, and community leader, Muriel worked tirelessly to improve educational opportunities for young Aboriginal people and to ensure their voices were heard. Her legacy continues to inspire Yuin families and communities today, a reminder of her courage, wisdom, and enduring commitment to justice and cultural strength.