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The 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week has wrapped up in spectacular fashion, with ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders taking home awards at the national ceremony held on Noongar Whadjuk Country in Perth.
This year's theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," couldn't have been more fitting as we witnessed both emerging talent and seasoned leaders being recognised for their extraordinary contributions to community, culture and Country.
Honouring Our Heroes
Taking out the coveted Person of the Year award was Dr Daniel Hunt, a Jaru and Indjibarndi man who's been making waves in Aboriginal health. As both a GP and dentist, Dr Hunt has dedicated his career to improving healthcare outcomes for Mob, particularly in his work addressing the Australian syphilis epidemic. His passion for healthcare in priority populations is exactly the kind of leadership we need to see more of.
Football legend Michael Long received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and what a deserving winner! The Anmatjere and Marranunggu man's legacy extends far beyond his AFL career. From standing up against racial vilification in 1995 to establishing The Long Walk movement, Uncle Michael has spent decades building bridges and advocating for reconciliation.
Culture Keepers and Change Makers
Christine Anu, our Torres Strait Islander icon and national treasure, claimed the Creative Talent Award. With her powerful rendition of Warumpi Band’s "My Island Home" still giving us goosebumps decades later, Christine continues to use her platform to celebrate and share Torres Strait Islander culture with the world.
The Wadjemup Project Steering Group's win in the Caring for Country and Culture category highlights the importance of truth-telling and healing. Their work to reconcile the painful history of Aboriginal imprisonment on Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) shows how we can face difficult truths whilst creating pathways for healing.
Looking Forward
What struck me most about this year's winners was the diversity of their achievements - from Blak Brews revolutionising the tea industry to young gun Anika Gosling working to support Aboriginal youth mental health. Each winner embodies the spirit of this year's theme, carrying forward the legacy of our ancestors whilst blazing new trails.
As we reflect on 50 years of NAIDOC Week celebrations, these winners remind us that excellence comes in many forms. Whether it's through sport, education, business or community service, our Mob continues to lead with strength, vision and purpose.
Here's to our 2025 winners - your achievements inspire us all to reach higher and dream bigger. The future of our communities is in brilliant hands.
Cover Image: Christine Anu
