Manningham Council paid tribute to social advocate and Templestowe local, Dr Jim Poulter, by presenting him the Key to the City at the recent Council meeting on 24 April. 

Dr Jim Poulter was nominated for his contribution to Reconciliation Manningham and as a member of the Manningham University of the Third Age (U3A). 

Manningham Mayor Cr Andrew Conlon said this was the second time Council had presented the Key to the City.

“Council doesn’t take bestowing this honour lightly,” he said. 

“Jim has made a significant contribution to the reconciliation movement, working closely with Aboriginal Elders and organisations in producing educational materials on Aboriginal history and cultural practices.

“We are honouring his lifetime of service to our City and State.”

He has published 25 books and sold more than 70,000 copies over 30 years. This includes several acclaimed Aboriginal-themed children’s books and scripting of the documentary film, The Fighting Gunditjmara in 1983.  

Jim was also the founding board member of Doncare and the Manningham Community Health Centre. 

Since retirement, Jim continues to contribute to the community, giving more than 50 talks each year on Aboriginal history and heritage and conducting regular history walks along the Yarra in Manningham.