Uncle David King receives Community Fellowship
Western Sydney University has recognised Uncle David King with a Community Fellowship for his outstanding contribution to cultural leadership and environmental stewardship.
A Gundungurra Elder (Burragorang Clan) and respected cultural knowledge holder, Uncles David’s life and work are deeply rooted in the Blue Mountains and Greater Western Sydney region.
He was awarded an Honorary Fellowship on Wednesday, 29 October, in a ceremony presided over by Elizabeth Dibbs, Deputy Chancellor and Professor Michelle Trudgett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, as part of the University’s October Graduation celebrations.
Professor Trudgett acknowledged Uncle David’s leadership, describing it as grounded in humility, wisdom, and a deep commitment to community.
“Uncle David has consistently worked to uplift others, preserve Gundungurra traditions, and foster respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Through his lifelong dedication, Uncle David has guided generations to understand the importance of caring for land, water, and community,” said Professor Trudgett.
“Uncle David has worked closely with schools, TAFE NSW, and universities—including Western Sydney University—where he has co-led cultural learning programs, design studios, and environmental research initiatives.”
“His contributions to projects such as swamp restoration, water quality monitoring, and staff cultural education continue to enrich our collective understanding of sustainability and reconciliation at Western Sydney University.”
With a career spanning over four decades and reflecting a deep commitment to cultural leadership, youth empowerment, and environmental stewardship, his professional and volunteer roles have consistently focused on restoring Country, supporting vulnerable communities, and promoting cultural education.
For many years Uncle David worked as a youth worker in Mt Druitt, supporting young people in one of Western Sydney’s most diverse and disadvantaged communities. He also worked for Sydney City Mission as a Senior Youth Worker. Since 2007, Uncle David has operated Dingo Darbo, an Indigenous-owned business offering Welcome to Country and Smoking ceremonies, cultural education, guided walks, and storytelling. In his current role as Indigenous Engagement Officer at Scenic World Blue Mountains, he supports cultural training, tourism, and Indigenous supplier engagement.
As a Patient Transport Officer with HealthShare NSW, he received the 2020 Chief Executive Award for his heroic efforts during the 2019–2020 bushfires, ensuring the safe evacuation of vulnerable patients.
Uncle David contributes to Cultural Burns on Gundungurra Country in collaboration with Firestix, National Parks and Wildlife Services and the Rural Fire Service, restoring traditional fire management practices. His volunteer work includes over two decades with Bushcare in the Blue Mountains and founding Garguree Swampcare in 2011.
Uncle David has played a central role in restoring the Garguree (The Gully) site, a place of profound cultural significance that has served as an Aboriginal campsite for thousands of years, transforming it into a vibrant space for cultural and environmental healing.
ENDS
30 October 2025
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
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