Late of Cairns. Evelyn passed away peacefully in Cairns on Thursday 21st September, 2017. Born to Melba Devow, a Warrgamay woman from the Herbert River district, and Ishmael (Smiler) Backo, descendant of the South Sea Islanders who were transported here to Australia to work as slave labour in the cane fields during the infamous Blackbirding era. Evelyn became a prominent Social Justice Activist Educator. Loving Mother of Sam Backo, Dolores Scott, Charmaene Scott, Kathrine Scott, Jewel Scott. Loved Grandma and Great Grandma of their respective families. Beloved Sister of Leonard (deceased), Brian (deceased), Hazel, Valma, Lance, Caroline, Desmond (deceased), Dale (deceased), Rex, Christine, Holly and Maureen.