Vignette 75: Esteemed musician, social advocate, humanitarian

Ngarrindjeri woman Olga Dagmar Fudge (1897–1993) was the University’s first known Aboriginal student. Born in Point McLeay, she had limited schooling before working as a 
shearer’s cook from the age of 13.

In 1926, Fudge pursued her passion for music, earning a Grade V in music theory. Undeterred by the absence of a scholarship, she enrolled in singing at the Elder Conservatorium of Music at the University in 1926–27, but experienced discrimination and discontinued. 

Fudge became an influential advocate for Aboriginal rights, and in 1943 was granted an exemption from the Aborigines Act 1934 by the South Australian Government. Despite this, she tirelessly wrote to newspapers and authorities in the 1950’s, emphasising the importance of education and advocating for Aboriginal students. In 1956, Fudge opened her home to Aboriginal girls in need, fostering neglected youth and providing support. Even as glaucoma affected her vision, she remained active in social advocacy, using her telephone to campaign for Aboriginal causes.

Her impact endures through the Olga Fudge Lodge, a hostel established in 2006 to support homeless Aboriginal women. Fudge’s indomitable spirit, advocacy, and commitment to education have left a lasting impact on the University and the wider community.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Leading for the future. p.107