It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of lifelong Aboriginal rights campaigner, Yankunytjatjara Elder and Maralinga atomic test survivor Mr Lester OAM.

We send our deepest condolences to Mr Lesters family.

Mr Lester played a pivotal role in fighting for recognition of the many Aboriginal people who, like him, were adversely affected by the nuclear testing at Emu Field.Mr Lesters blindness was a direct result of these tests.

Over the course of his life, he achieved a great deal forthe Traditional owners in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara lands in South Australia as a campaigner for land rights, recognition and justice.

"Me Lester was friend of mine for more than 40 years, and I had the utmost respect and admiration for him," Mr Snowdon said.

Despite his own personal challenges, he inspired so many Australians to never give up fighting for justice, Senator McCarthy said.

He was a man of great stature, as an advocate, teacher and leader. Mr Lesters significant contributions to the rights of Aboriginal people and broader Australia will not be forgotten.

Mr Lester worked over decades to improve the lives and opportunities for his people. While always a fighter he was forever generous and forgiving.

He was a great Australian by any measure.

Vale Mr Lester OAM.