The legacy left by Les Bursill will be celebrated next month with Sutherland Shire Reconciliation hosting an event in the late community figure's honour.
His autobiography The Past Is In Us, Not Behind Us will be launched on September 7 and more than 100 people are expected to attend.
The book describes his challenging life and many of his career achievements, including his OAM.
Bursill embraced his Aboriginal heritage in his adult years and dedicated the rest of his life to educating others about the community's shared Dharawal heritage.
The launch will be headed by his son, John, chairman of the Sutherland Aboriginal Educational Consultative Group (AECG), at Frank Vickery Village conference centre, Sylvania.
Anyone who had a connection with Les is also welcome to join the celebration of his life.
The book is to be launched at 12 midday by his proud son John Bursill - Chairperson of the Sutherland AECG.
Also on the day, Sutherland Shire Reconciliation is running an expo that includes talks on bush foods, and there will be workshops and stalls selling authentic Aboriginal resources from 8.45am.