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The National NAIDOC Committee has unveiled the finalists for the 2024 NAIDOC Week Awards. This year's lineup features an impressive array of talent spanning ten categories, each embodying the essence of NAIDOC's values.
At the heart of this year's awards is Aunty Dulcie Flower, a Miri woman from the Torres Strait Islands, who has been honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Her decades-long activism has been instrumental in campaigns for constitutional change, equal wages, health rights, land rights, and anti-discrimination efforts. Aunty Dulcie's recognition sets the tone for an event that celebrates not just individual accomplishments, but the collective progress of Indigenous Australians.
The Person Award finalists exemplify the diverse ways in which Indigenous leaders are making a difference. Muriel Bamblett, CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, Georgia Weir, founder of Deadly Runners, and Bianca Brackenridge, founder of Bracks Indigenous clothing, have each made significant strides in community leadership, health promotion, and cultural empowerment. Their work is complemented by the wisdom of Elder Award finalists such as Aunty Flo Watson, Dr. John Reid, and Klynton Wanganeen, whose lifelong commitment to their communities and preservation of Indigenous culture continues to guide and inspire.
The awards also shine a spotlight on the next generation of Indigenous leaders. Youth Award finalists Dante Rodrigues, Piper Stewart, and Ieyesha Roberts are recognised for their exceptional achievements and potential to inspire their peers. Meanwhile, innovators like Tui Nolan and Narelle Henry are breaking new ground with forward-thinking approaches in various fields.
Education plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indigenous culture, and finalists Shelley Ware, Dr. Stacey Kim Coates, and the Warlpiri Education and Training Trust are celebrated for ensuring Indigenous knowledge and perspectives are integral to learning environments. In the realm of arts and sports, Creative Talent finalists Colleen Tighe Johnson and Graham Akhurst, along with Sportsperson nominees Alex Winwood and Bailey O'Neil, demonstrate the breadth of Indigenous excellence across different disciplines.
The Caring for Country and Culture Award acknowledges those working tirelessly to preserve Indigenous heritage and land. Finalists Dr. Theoni (Tia) Whyman, Fran Bodkin, and Alick Tipoti are recognised for their efforts in nurturing cultural traditions and environmental stewardship.
As we look forward to the National NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony on 6 July in Tarndanya/Adelaide on Kaurna Yerta Country, it's clear that these finalists represent more than just individual achievements. They embody the resilience, creativity, and ongoing contributions of Indigenous Australians to our national identity. The ceremony promises to be a powerful celebration of Indigenous excellence, honouring the past while looking confidently towards the future.
