01/09/2025
WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders viewers — contains the name and image of deceased individual
VALE: Dr. Charmaine Papertalk Green-Smith
Alongside the Aboriginal and writing communities nationally, everyone at AustLit Blackwords sends their condolences and respects to the family and friends of the late Dr Charmaine Papertalk Green.
Dr. Charmaine Papertalk Green's passing marks the loss of a highly awarded poet and artist, and we know her legacy lives on through her creative works, among many other things.
Dr. Charmaine Papertalk Green-Smith's titles include:
* Art Charmaine Papertalk-Green with John Kinsella, Magabala Books, 2022
* False Claims of Colonial Thieves with John Kinsella, Magabala Books, 2018
* Nganajungu Yagu Charmaine Papertalk-Green, Cordite Press, 2019
* Just Like That and Other Poems, Fremantle Press, 2007
WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders viewers — contains the name and image of deceased individual
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
In Loving Memory of Dr. Charmaine Papertalk Green-Smith
It is with profound sadness and deep sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Chair, Snr Artist and Yamaji art family member, Dr. Charmaine Papertalk Green-Smith, a visionary artist, poet, and scholar whose work touched countless lives.
Surrounded by family, Dr. Papertalk Green-Smith passed away on Wednesday 27th August 2025, leaving behind a legacy of powerful storytelling, advocacy, and a lifelong commitment to the betterment of Indigenous communities.
Dr. Papertalk Green-Smtih was a Yamaji woman whose artworks and writing transcended boundaries, exploring the intersection of culture, identity, and belonging.
Her remarkable artistic and literary career inspired many, offering an intimate and unapologetic perspective on the complexities of Indigenous life and the ongoing struggle for justice, recognition, and healing.
Through her poetry, academic contributions, and activism, Dr. Papertalk Green-Smith gave voice to the marginalised, while challenging all of us to confront the painful truths of colonial history.
Among her many accomplishments and publications, Dr. Papertalk Green-Smith’s groundbreaking poetry collections, included “We Are Going to Need More Than a Map” and “The Gift of the Givers,” earned critical acclaim for their profound emotional depth and raw honesty. As a scholar, she was committed to advancing Indigenous knowledge systems and promoting the preservation of cultural heritage.
Dr. Papertalk Green-Smith’s legacy extends far beyond her work. Her spirit of compassion, her commitment to the strength of community, and her unflinching advocacy for Indigenous rights have left an indelible mark on the Australian cultural landscape. She was a much loved mother, wife, grandmother, family member, a leader, a mentor, and a friend to many. Always offering a guiding hand and an ear to those in need.
Her passing leaves a void that will be felt deeply within the Arts, literary and Aboriginal communities and beyond.
As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary woman, we also celebrate her life, her achievements, and the remarkable contributions she made to the world.
Dr. Papertalk Green-Smiths voice will continue to resonate in the stories she shared, in the people she inspired, and in the ongoing work of Indigenous empowerment and reconciliation.
Dr. Charmaine Papertalk Green is survived by her family, colleagues, and countless friends, all of whom will cherish her memory and carry her work forward in the years to come.
As you’d expect we are devastated and ask for privacy as we mourn our loss.
We will ensure to keep you all up to date regarding funeral arrangements when known.
Rest in power 🙏🏽
Much love from family and the team at Yamaji Art ❤️
