The 2024 National NAIDOC Week Awards ceremony took place in Adelaide on Saturday night, honoring Indigenous trailblazers who are making a significant impact on their communities.
The event, celebrating this year’s NAIDOC theme of “Keep the fire burning! Blak, Loud and Proud,” was the first major gathering of First Nations people since the defeat of the Indigenous Voice referendum last year. Almost 2,000 attendees broke the previous year’s record, highlighting the importance and unity of the Indigenous community.
Event Highlights
The evening began with a powerful Welcome to Country by Kaurna Elder Uncle Michael O’Brien, setting a respectful and inclusive tone. The ceremony featured musical performances by renowned artists such as Baker Boy and Jessica Mauboy, who energized the audience with their vibrant displays of Indigenous talent.
One of the most poignant moments was a tribute to the late Archie Roach, a legendary singer-songwriter, with a stirring rendition of his iconic song “Took the Children Away” performed by a choir of young Indigenous singers.
Award Winners and Their Contributions
Lifetime Achievement Award: Aunty Dulcie Flowers AM
Aunty Dulcie Flowers, a Meriam woman and fierce advocate for her community, received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Her career began as a registered nurse in Sydney, where she helped establish the Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service. A pivotal figure in the 1967 referendum, she has continually worked to improve health outcomes for First Nations peoples. In 2019, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant contributions. Aunty Dulcie expressed pride in being the first Torres Strait Islander woman to receive this award and encouraged the next generation to continue striving for justice and equality.
Person of the Year Award: Aunty Muriel Bamblett
Aunty Muriel Bamblett, a Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung, and Boon Wurrung Elder, was named Person of the Year. As the longstanding CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA), she has been a formidable advocate for children in out-of-home care. Aunty Muriel’s work includes championing legislative reforms that returned state powers in Victoria to Aboriginal community-controlled organizations. In her acceptance speech, she dedicated the award to her parents and emphasized the importance of keeping Indigenous children connected to their communities and culture.
Creative Talent Award: Naarah
Naarah, a Gija woman from the Kimberley who grew up in lutruwita/Tasmania, received the Creative Talent Award. As an actor, performer, singer, and creative, Naarah’s contributions to the arts have been widely recognized, including her recent honor as the 2024 Young Australian of the Year in Tasmania.
Sportsperson Award: Alex Winwood
Boxer Alex Winwood was awarded the Sportsperson of the Year for his outstanding achievements in the boxing ring and his role as an inspiration to young Indigenous athletes.
Youth Award: Dante Rodrigues
Dante Rodrigues, honored with the Youth Award, has shown exceptional promise and dedication to his community, embodying the spirit and future of Indigenous youth.
Education Award: Warlpiri Education and Training Trust
The Warlpiri Education and Training Trust received the Education Award for its commitment to improving educational outcomes for Warlpiri communities, ensuring that culture and knowledge are passed down to future generations.
Caring for Country and Culture Award: Alick Tipoti
Alick Tipoti was recognized with the Caring for Country and Culture Award for his work in preserving and promoting Indigenous culture and heritage.
Female Elder Award: Aunty Millie Ingram
Aunty Millie Ingram received the Female Elder of the Year award for her lifelong dedication to her community and her efforts in preserving Indigenous knowledge and traditions.
Male Elder Award: Kim Collard
Kim Collard was honored as the Male Elder of the Year, celebrating his contributions to community leadership and cultural preservation.
Innovation Award: Tui Nolan
Tui Nolan was recognized with the Innovation Award for their creative and groundbreaking work that has positively impacted Indigenous communities.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney highlighted the significance of the event, noting the large turnout as a reaffirmation of Indigenous resilience and excellence. Reflecting on the referendum result, she pointed out the progress in South Australia and the need for continued efforts towards treaty and truth-telling processes across the nation.
The award winners shared a common vision for a more inclusive Australia, where Indigenous voices are central to national dialogues. They called for systemic changes in education, representation, and reconciliation efforts.
In her closing remarks, Aunty Muriel Bamblett encapsulated the spirit of the evening, emphasizing the need to learn from Indigenous ways of doing and the importance of keeping children connected to their culture.
The 2024 National NAIDOC Week Awards was a celebration of achievements and a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and recognition. For those who missed the live event, the full ceremony is available to watch on ABC iView.
Looking Forward
The National NAIDOC Week Awards will be traveling to Perth next year, continuing the tradition of celebrating Indigenous excellence and community leadership.