Mr Pearson comes from the Guugu Yimithirr community of Hope Vale, on south eastern Cape York Peninsula. For over 30 years he has pursued land rights and socioeconomic development outcomes for Cape York. Mr Pearson co founded the Cape York Land Council and negotiated with the Keating government with respect to the Native Title Act 1993 after the High Courts landmark Mabo decision. He is the Founder of Cape York Partnership a non profit Indigenous organisation working in the areas of policy, empowerment, health, language and culture; and Good to Great Schools Australia which aims to lift education outcomes for Australian students. Mr Pearson served as a member of the Expert Panel on Constitutional Recognition of Indigenous Australians and the Referendum Council and continues to advocate for structural reforms to empower Indigenous people. Mr Pearson holds a degree in History and Law from Sydney University. Committee memberships include member of Safety and Sustainability Committee.
