DERBY GIANT PASSES

Cyril Archer, lead singer with his band Chisel and True Dinkum. Photo Lindsay Le Lievre.

Derby and the West Kimberley lost a much loved community member last week when Cyril Archer passed away on Friday morning.

Early in his career Mr Archer moved to NSW where he was State Manager for Aboriginal Hostels Ltd, before returning to Derby where he started up Derby Aboriginal Hostel and later, Radio 6DBY Derby.

Cyril Archer (l) and band at the Boyup Brook country music festival with Adam Brand.

He was an officer bearer in many community and Aboriginal organisations, but his cousin-brother and close friend Lindsay Le Lievre said he was an inspirational leader.

“I think he’ll be remembered for his music and for the love of his people, especilly the Aboriginal people, the Nyikina side and all Aboriginal people from the Bardi connection, Broome, all over the Kimberley,” he said. “It really makes you feel proud to have known a man that’s helped so many people. “

Mr Archer’s funeral will be at Karrakatta on September 28, with a memorial service at Derby Civic Centre on October 1.