Strong leaders urged to step forward

Community members are being encouraged to submit their nominations for the Hedland Aboriginal Strong Leaders inaugural NAIDOC awards.

The awards recognise the continuing contributions of individuals and organisations who have demonstrated excellence in their field and have improved the lives of Aboriginal people.

There are eight categories in which 17 individuals can be nominated and recognised, including the “Because of Her we can” category, in recognition of this year’s NAIDOC theme.

Hedland Aboriginal Strong Leaders working group chair and Kariyarra elder Alfred Barker said the group were proud to be presenting the awards for the first time.

“As elders we are proud of the achievements and contributions of Aboriginal people in Hedland and we look forward to presenting these awards at the annual Yule River bush meeting,” he said.

“We look forward to seeing all of the nominations, especially our strong female elders, women and girls in our special category recognising the 2018 NAIDOC theme.”

The awards are supported by the Pilbara Development Commission and Town of Port Hedland.

Pilbara Development Commission Acting Chief Executive Officer Trish Barron said NAIDOC was an important opportunity to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal people.

Visit the town’s website at porthedland.wa.gov.au to download forms. Completed nominations should be sent to trina.stoddart@gmail.com by June 21.

Winners will be announced at the Yule River Bush Meeting.