Aunty Isobel Rabbitt passed into the dreamtime on 11 June 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Late of Springfield Lakes and formerly of Cherbourg, Aunty Isobel lived an extraordinary life spanning more than nine decades – a life grounded in community, culture, music and quiet strength.

Born in 1928, Aunty Isobel’s early years were shaped by displacement and control under government policies, including time at the Purga Salvation Army Home and later at the Cherbourg mission. Despite these challenges, she cultivated a warm, giving nature and carried with her a deep sense of cultural identity and pride.

Her early gifts for music and performance emerged during childhood concerts and poetry recitals, and continued to shine throughout her life.

In the 1960s, Aunty Isobel made history as one of the few Aboriginal performers at Kingaroy’s 4SB Radio concerts – a bold and trailblazing act at a time when Aboriginal voices were rarely heard in public forums.

Above: Aunty Isobel Rabbitt at her home in Cherbourg in 2008, holding a photograph of herself performing on 4SB’s concert stage in Kingaroy during the 1960s with Richard “Diamond” Ross, Mick Conlon, Jeffrey Doolah, Godfrey Brown, Angus Rabbitt Snr and Winifred Douglas.

She was a member of the Cherbourg Band and a passionate singer and tambourine player, performing regularly at community events including those held at Cherbourg Hall. Her contributions to music are immortalised in a mural at Cherbourg Radio, where she is honoured alongside other local legends

Her talents extended beyond the stage. Aunty Isobel was a self-taught landscape artist and a proud homemaker whose gardening skills earned local recognition. She was also an active presence in community spaces, known for her love of bingo (first in Cherbourg and later in Brisbane) and the friendships she nurtured through these gatherings. Even in her later years, she remained a regular at Southside Bingo, forming strong bonds with other respected Elders.

Above: A collection of landscape paintings by Aunty Isobel Rabbitt.

Aunty Isobel’s legacy is woven into the fabric of community life in Cherbourg and beyond. She brought joy through music, inspired strength through adversity, and exemplified grace and dignity in everything she did. While she was a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother, her impact extended far beyond family. She was a source of comfort, wisdom and connection for many across generations.

Aunty Isobel leaves behind a legacy of resilience, generosity and cultural pride. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

On behalf of everyone at Link-Up (Qld), we extend our heartfelt condolences to Aunty Isobel’s family and loved ones. May her memory continue to inspire and guide us.

Published July 2025.