Tourism Top End has joined a long list of organisations and public figures sharing their sadness about the loss of former Katherine Mayor Fay Miller, who lost her battle with cancer on April 1. "We learned the sad news of the passing of Fay Miller AM, a wonderful lady who had inspired so many across the tourism industry of Katherine and the Top End," Tourism Top End said in a statement. "Never one to back away from what had to be done in the interests of Katherine, especially tourism, Fay was passionate about the region working together to constantly improve its place in the Northern Territory. "A key advocate also for the Savannah Way, Fay was focused on ensuring the success of Katherine and the Big Rivers as an integral part of Northern Australia's tourism industry." In 2021, Mrs Miller was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her significant service to local government, tourism and the community of Katherine. She was also recognised as a Life Member of Tourism Top End for her "invaluable contribution to Katherine's and the Top End's tourism industry". As a caravan park and general store operator in her early years in Katherine, she was heavily involved in NT tourism over the years, with some of her many roles including Katherine Region Tourist Association chairwoman and Commissioner on Tourism NT's Board. In the 2021 NT Brolga Tourism Awards, Mrs Miller was awarded the Tourism Minister's Perpetual Trophy recognising her "incredible contribution" to tourism. Read more here "As she was affectionately known, 'Aunty Fay' will always be remembered as a passionate and personable lady whose legacy will continue to inspire many in our tourism industry," Tourism Top End said. "Her contribution will forever be at the heart of our motivation to ensure that the future of Katherine's tourism industry reaches its full potential." While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday at 6am from the Katherine Times. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.