Uncle Ken Murphy reflects on his time as Link-Up (Qld) Chairperson
At the end of last year, Uncle Ken Murphy handed over the role of Link-Up (Qld) Chairperson, turning the page on an esteemed six years in the position.
Although continuing as a Board Director, his contributions as Chairperson and his 12 years of service are undeniably worthy of recognition. A proud Jinibara Elder, Uncle Ken has been a steady presence for Link-Up (Qld), known for his classic straight-talking nature and for guiding the organisation through periods of growth and positive change.
For years, Uncle Ken worked as a rigger across Queensland and New South Wales, before a passion for supporting young people and families led him to Dundalli House Youth Shelter. There, as coordinator, he helped children experiencing homelessness reconnect with education, family and community. Later, as a Community Liaison Officer at Murri Watch, he supported families to maintain vital connections with their loved ones in youth detention.
Invited by his dear friend and former Chairperson, Uncle Sam Watson, to join the Link-Up (Qld) Board in 2015, Uncle Ken has provided steady leadership grounded in cultural knowledge, lived experience, and deep care for community. He considers it a privilege to witness the healing and reconnections achieved through Link-Up (Qld)’s work and remains committed to ensuring positive outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Queensland.
Uncle Ken credits the personality and diligent work of his predecessor for introducing him to Link-Up (Qld).
“I knew all the Watson family, all his brothers. He was a good bloke, Sammy. He would do anything for you. He used to help people out and support a lot of people,” Uncle Ken shares.
“He invited me to come over to Link-Up (Qld) around 2014. He always used to say, ‘come have a yarn with Link-Up, we need someone with your experience.”
When it became time to take over as Chairperson at the end of 2019, Uncle Ken stayed true to his character.
“I didn’t step into it,” he jokes, “I got pushed into it!”
“But it was a position that I didn’t mind, because I knew what was going on. I had the community connections… You only need to look around and talk with people about what Link-Up (Qld) does, to see why it’s so important.”
Transparency, stability and a desire to give voice to those who would otherwise go without are strengths that Uncle Ken holds dear. His most enjoyable memories of his time as Chairperson are of meeting new people, learning their stories and working together to seek solutions.
Link-Up (Qld) CEO Patricia Thompson AM says Uncle Ken has played an important role in guiding the organisation and supporting work with Stolen Generations survivors and their families.
“Uncle Kenny has been a valued member of the Link-Up (Qld) Board for more than a decade, bringing wisdom, cultural knowledge and a deep commitment to the communities we serve,” Pat shares.
“When Uncle Kenny stepped into the role of Chairperson following the passing of Uncle Sam Watson, he provided steady leadership during a challenging time, including throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We are grateful for the many years he has dedicated to Link-Up (Qld), and for the guidance and experience he continues to bring as a Board Director.”
Link-Up (Qld) Chairperson Len Utz took over from Uncle Ken late last year and speaks highly of his many years of service to the organisation, both as a Board Director and as Chairperson.
“His leadership, experience and commitment to community have played an important role in supporting the organisation and the work it does for Stolen Generations survivors and their families,” Len says.
“I’m grateful for the contribution Uncle Ken has made over the past decade and for the example he has set through his leadership. I look forward to continuing to work alongside him and the rest of the Board as we carry this important work forward.”
With a breadth of knowledge and experience, Uncle Ken will continue to bring his trademark honesty and strength of character into the future as a Board Director. He is a well-known figure in the community and endless advocate for Link-Up (Qld), who is always available to lend a hand or just to have a yarn.
“I believe that if you continue to talk the truth, you’ll eventually get what you’re looking for,” Uncle Ken imparts.
“No matter how hard they try to cover it up, the truth always cuts through in the end.”
Published April 2026.