Mr Wavehill passed away on Wednesday, leaving a huge legacy for his part in the Walk-Off.

In a statement, Chief Minister Michael Gunner extended his condolences to Mr Wavehill's family and the Kalkarindji community.

"Mr Wavehill was one of the last survivors of the famed Wave Hill Walk-Off where Aboriginal stockmen launched strike action over unpaid wages and appalling working conditions," Mr Gunner said.

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"The dispute, which ran for many years, culminated in the return of homelands to the Gurindji people and the birth of Land Rights in Australia.

"Mr Wavehill's death came two days after the 55th anniversary of the courageous and momentous protest that is now firmly entrenched in Australia's history, lore and evolution.

"Renowned for his great yarns, good humour and horsemanship, Mr Wavehill was a devoted family man, cultural aficionado and a passionate advocate for his people."

Northern Land Council (NLC) chair Samuel Bush-Blanasi also paid tribute to Mr Wavehill as a "courageous leader who always stood up for his mob."

"His loss will be deeply felt by NLC Full Council members, Traditional Owners, Native Title Holders, community members and staff," he said.

NLC CEO Joe Martin-Jard described Mr Wavehill, who was a Central Land Council delegate, as "an enormously important man in the land rights struggle."

"On a personal level he was a proud family man and he was always so generous with his stories and entertained with his sense of humour," he said.

"This is a very sad time for the community, we have lost a hero of the land rights movement and a true friend."

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