The nurse who helped found the first Aboriginal community–controlled health service has been remembered for her straight talking, her political advocacy and her time as one of The Sapphires.

Dr Naomi Mayers (PhD) OAM, known as Aunty Nay, went on to help lead the Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS) in Redfern, Sydney, for 46 years since its set up in 1971 — first as an administrator then as the CEO.

Of Yorta Yorta and Wiradjuri heritage, she held a doctorate in Aboriginal Affairs and was later awarded a Doctor of Letters in 2017.

“One of her legacies will be self-determination and community control, which she never deviated from as she continued to support many Aboriginal communities across Australia,” the AMS said as it announced her death at the age of 84 on 4 April.