Source : Perth Now news
The Blak Carpet lit up with Indigenous fashion and high achievers from across the arts, sports and community services for the annual NAIDOC Awards.
Winners of this year’s awards ranged from esteemed elders to a highly-lauded artist whose genre-bending style has made her a household name.
Claiming this year’s creative talent award, Kaylene Whiskey has gained international attention for her vibrant and honest art style celebrating strong Aboriginal women, community life and connection to Country.
Ms Whiskey adapted her style from comic books, mixing pop culture and traditional Anangu culture.
“Comic book to canvas,” she told the crowd.
Held at the Alice Springs Convention Centre on Saturday night, the annual NAIDOC Awards celebrate excellence and leadership across First Nations communities.
Receiving the lifetime achievement award, Aunty Rhoda Roberts was posthumously recognised for playing a major part in shaping Australia’s artistic and cultural landscape.
A dedicated storyteller and creative powerhouse, Ms Roberts spent her life celebrating First Nations culture as an actor, producer, director, advisor and artistic director.
The esteemed person of the year award was taken out by Aunty Pat Turner, who, as the first Aboriginal woman to head a Commonwealth government department, helped champion Indigenous voices in shaping policy.
Female elder of the year, Christine Corby, is a highly respected leader in Aboriginal health who has been a driver of culturally appropriate healthcare from her small town of Walgett in north-west New South Wales.
“I think it puts a little small community on the map and shows good people can do things outside of large city areas,” Ms Corby told AAP.
Male elder of the year, Stephen Hagan, is an award-winning author and filmmaker who successfully campaigned to change offensive place names and brands, including rebranding Coon Cheese and leading key racial discrimination suits.
“I don’t want my kids growing up putting up with that sort of crap,” he told AAP.
“I fight the good fight, and I’m proud I’ve done it.”
As a member of the Australian Defence Force women’s rugby team, airwoman and winner of the sportsperson of the year award, Caitlyn Costello, has proved herself an inspiration to others.
Youth award winner, Tyson Neal-Edwards, has used running as a platform to advocate for better health outcomes, resilience and cultural protection.
The Southern Aboriginal Corporation was recognised with the caring for country and culture award for protecting cultural knowledge and strengthening connection to land.
Education award winner, Brisbane’s Murri School and winner of the innovation award, the Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy, were both recognised for their culturally grounded approaches to learning.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, said the winners embody the spirit of NAIDOC, creating positive change and inspiring others.
