Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this article contains images, voices and names of deceased persons.
‘I remember him being a very gentle, kind, knowledgeable man, wearing a hat, he had the biggest smile and was always very highly inquisitive with his mind’ Western Sydney University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, Professor Michelle Trudgett said of Uncle Greg.
Greg Simms, also known as Uncle Greg, was an Aboriginal Elder in Western Sydney of the Gundungurra of the Blue Mountains and the Gadigal Tribe of the Dharug Nation. He was an activist, storyteller, and dedicated his entire life to the Western Sydney University community and beyond.
Members of the community and University gathered to honour Uncle Greg’s legacy on Wednesday August 6th, 2025 at the Peter Shergold Building, Parramatta City Campus.
Guest speakers shared their love for Uncle Greg. The event started with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Chris Tobin, an important figure community figure who spoke fondly of Uncle Greg.
‘Uncle Greg gave his respect to everyone whether you are a politician, the person that opens the door, the young child that’s just seating there by himself, you’d get Uncle’s attention.” said Uncle Chris.
Professor Trudgett spoke about his impact in the community, especially at the University, delivering hundreds of Welcome to Country ceremonies at University events.
Western’s Director of Indigenous Futures Aunty Fiona Towney commented on Uncle Greg’s ability to connect with everyone around him, and his kind, open-minded, and always keen to interact and learn.
‘Uncle was often around, either engaging with community or staff or students or all three’.
Kamilaroi woman Becky Chatfield performed four dances to honour Uncle Greg. Chatfield’s impassioned performance ended with a farewell lamentation:
‘It’s always see you later, see you next time I see you.’
Western’s Senior Coordinator, Indigenous Employment Gabrielle Talbot-Mundine hosted the event, and reflected on the importance of enjoying the present moment because of the future’s uncertainty:
‘To sit with Uncle was to feel the strength of generations, to sit with all of our Elders is a privilege’.
Uncle Greg was an important figure in Western’s community, impacting many lives. Uncle Greg will always be remembered for his work, dedication, love and compassion.
Thank you, Uncle Greg, on behalf of Western Sydney University’s community. We will miss you dearly.
