Decision details

Moved by Councillor Weldon, seconded by the Chair (the Lord Mayor) -

It is resolved that:

(A)      Council note:

(i)         the recent passing of Bidjigal Elder Vic Simms, known to many as Uncle Vic or by his nickname Bunno;

(ii)        born on the La Perouse Mission in 1946, Vic rose to prominence as a child prodigy who began singing professionally aged just 11;

(iii)      he toured the country and became a household name with the release of his debut single “Yo-Yo Heart” and appearances on music television programs like Bandstand and Six O'Clock Rock;

(iv)      as his career stalled, Vic turned to alcohol and in 1968 was arrested for his part in a robbery and sentenced to 7 years imprisonment;

(v)       whilst serving his time, Vic learnt to play guitar and turned to songwriting to survive the tough conditions in Bathurst Goal. After capturing the interest of a group of visiting social workers, he was allowed to record a 10-song album, which was released as The Loner;

(vi)      composed and recorded behind bars, The Loner is now recognised as a timeless Aboriginal protest album and has been named in the 110 Best Australian Albums;

(vii)     after his release from prison, Vic started performing and touring again. In 2001, he was recognised at the Deadly Award for his Outstanding Contribution to Aboriginal Music;

(viii)    Vic dedicated much of his later years to community work. He was an active member of the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council and he collaborated with the University of New South Wales to deliver cultural education sessions;

(ix)      in 2024, he was awarded the university’s highest honour, an honorary doctorate in recognition of his service to education and his community;

(x)       he will be remembered as a musical icon, a great storyteller and a beloved man with a generous spirit who was immersed in his community and culture; and

(xi)      Uncle Vic is survived by his wife Joan, 4 children, 15 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren;

(B)      the Lord Mayor be requested to write to Vic’s family expressing Council’s condolences; and

(C)      all persons attending this meeting of Council observe one minute’s silence to commemorate Vic’s life.

Carried unanimously.

X113759

Note – All Councillors, staff and members of the public present stood in silence for one minute as a mark of respect to Vic Simms.