Deafblind Advocate Drowns at Swimming Hole

0:00Disability advocate Ellen Fraser Barber drowns Sunday afternoon at Ellery Creek Bichole, a popular swimming spot in our west of Alice Springs Inn, the Northern Territory. The 35-year-old from Adelaide, who was deafblind and autistic, passed away despite efforts by bystanders and paramedics to save her. She built a powerful career in South Australia's disability sector, earning her PhD from Flinders University just this year. Her research focused on improving safety and respect for people in group homes, and she led policy work at JFA Purple Orange, while hosting key events, like their first disability election form. Family and friends are pouring out heartfelt tributes, calling her a fierce force with wisdom beyond her years, and an incredible positive influence. Her sister Harriet spoke of the huge holes she'll leave in their family and community, while friends Sam Paior remembered their hiking adventures, and her touch on nearly every advocacy area. Colleagues like Interim Chief Tracy Wallace and former Minister Nat Cook praised her fearless leadership on advisory councils

1:04and her lasting legacy. In policy and events, Paior noted Ellen's love for fitness, nature hikes, and deep thinking that shaped so much good. Northern Territory Police confirmed she was with friends at the site, with next-of-kin notified and drowning listed as the belief cause pending. Autopsy results. Her story reminds us how one voice can echo far in the fight for dignity. I'm Cory with the story. That's your Sydney News Today update. AI powered and always on.