Pirrawayingi Puruntatameri

Guided by Country, Grounded in Truth, Led by Community.

Pirrawayingi Puruntatameri is a respected Tiwi Elder, educator, and community leader with a lifetime of service grounded in cultural authority, public advocacy, and practical leadership. With more than four decades of experience across education, health, local government, and community development, he offers a rare combination of lived experience and institutional knowledge, trusted by communities and respected across government.

Having served as a teacher, health worker, inaugural Mayor of the Tiwi Islands Regional Council, long-standing Tiwi Land Council representative, and founding board member of key community programs, Pirrawayingi has worked at every level of governance. His consistent commitment to self-determination, equity, and cultural integrity has positioned him as a key bridge between First Nations communities and decision-makers across sectors.

Pirrawayingi’s ability to navigate both Indigenous and non-Indigenous systems makes him an invaluable partner for organisations seeking meaningful engagement, culturally safe practices, and community-led solutions. Whether advising on policy, education, justice reform, or community strategy, he brings insight, trust, and a deep commitment to sustainable impact.

Our Home. Our Country.

  • 1968–1973 – Schooling at St John’s College (Darwin) and Hamilton, Victoria

  • Mid-1970s – Completed Bachelor of Teaching

  • 1975 – Began career as a teacher

  • 1980s – Worked as a health worker

  • 1990s–2020s

    • Over 25 years on the Tiwi Land Council (including time as Chairman)

    • Founding board member of Tiwi Islands Training and Employment Board (TITEB)

    • Co-founder and current Chairman of the Elders Visiting Program

  • 2010s–2020s

    • 10 years on the Tiwi Islands Regional Council

    • Mayor of Tiwi Islands (2023–2024)

  • 1990s–Present – 30+ years involved with Menzies School of Health Research

  • 2023 – Awarded Elder of the Year at the NAIDOC Week Awards

Ongoing – Speaker, cultural advisor, and advocate

Pirrawayingi’s Journey

Explore the Media Hub – In-depth Articles, Features, and Reports on Pirrawayingi

If Pirrawayingi’s story or work resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you're seeking guidance, partnership opportunities, or want to bring his insights to your organisation or community, please get in touch.

Contact us