DILI, 17 january 2023 (TATOLI) – Timor-Leste’s Charismatic Leader, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão express his sincere condolences to the loved ones of Shirley Shackleton, the widow of journalist Greg Shackleton, who was killed by Indonesian forces among other reporters, in Balibo, on the 16th of october 1975.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of long-time supporter and beloved friend of Timor-Leste, Shirley Shackleton. At this sad time, we send our love and support to Shirley’s son, Evan, and also to her extended family and friends,” Gusmão said in a statement released on monday (16/01).
Shirley dedicated her life to exposing the truth about the murder of her husband, journalist Greg Shackleton, and his Australian-based colleagues Gary Cunningham, Tony Stewart, Malcolm Rennie, and Brian Peters in Balibo on october 16, 1975.
Shirley helped expose the tragic truth that the journalists, known as the ‘Balibo Five’ were murdered by the Indonesian military. She fearlessly lobbied her government to challenge the Indonesian military’s denials at the time, and for decades afterward. This led her to campaign to expose the suffering of the Timorese people during the 24 years of military occupation
After the restoration of independence in 2002, Shirley visited Timor-Leste many times and was welcomed as part of the family.
“Shirley inspired us with her determination and her courage. She was fearless and unrelenting in the pursuit of truth. With her formidable spirit and charisma, she fought for justice for the Balibo Five and the Timorese people. She was a most deserved recipient of the Order of Timor-Leste Medal,” said Gusmão
Shirley was pivotal in the establishment of the Balibo House Trust by the Victorian Government, led by then-Premier Steve Bracks.
As a Life Board Member of the Trust, Shirley worked to honor the Balibo Five by supporting the Balibo community.
Her legacy includes restoring the Australian Flag House at Balibo, opening the Balbo Community Learning Centre, building classrooms and facilities at four schools, establishing the Balbo Dental Clinic, developing the Balibo Fort Hotel, and most recently establishing the Balibo Fort Veterans’ Museum
Journalist: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges
