Nine outstanding Ngarrindjeri recognised with NAIDOC Week awards

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Nine outstanding Ngarrindjeri role models have been recognised at the nation’s annual NAIDOC Week awards in Murray Bridge.

About 250 people joined a walk across the old road bridge and down the main street to an awards ceremony outside the city’s council office, following a banner with the week’s theme: “50 years of deadly”.

There, some of the best and brightest were celebrated for their achievements.

Named elders of the year were Dorothy Shaw and Steve Sumner.

Aunty Dot, as she is known, was described as having cared for others all her life: not only her own eight children, but many others.

She was also a talented singer whose voice brought joy to those around her.

“This award acknowledges her kindness, selflessness and enduring impact, celebrating and honouring her for all she has given the community,” the awards’ MCs said.

Mr Sumner, who retired last week as CEO of the Moorundi Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service, was recognised for his years of service to the Ngarrindjeri community, particularly in health.

“His commitment and hard work helped bring the long-held vision of the Moorundi building to life … a place that generations of elders had dreamed of for many years,” the MCs said.

In the youth categories, the winners were year 12 student Teleiyah Harradine and Department for Environment and Water park ranger Coen Pearson.

Teleiyah had shown resilience, dedication and leadership, achiving 100 per cent school attendance and mentoring younger girls through the Stars Foundation.

Mr Pearson had shown leadership, dedication to his community and a commitment to caring for country in the early stages of his career, and inspired others with his passion, resilience and pride in his culture.

Two workers of the year were named: mental health worker Stacy Wilson and ranger coordinator Arnold Love.

As a team leader at Headspace, Ms Wilson empowered young people by ensuring they could access compassionate and culturally safe support, with “passion, advocacy and genuine care”.

Mr Love was a champion of the River Murray and Ngarrindjeri ruwe, inspiring other rangers with his passion for caring for country and making a lasting impact on the community.

Three other awards were also given out, for a sportsperson, an artist and a young person deserving of encouragement.

Jervois footballer and Ngarrindjeri United basketballer Bryce Reid was named sportsperson of the year for his talent, dedication and work ethic.

“Bryce is a humble and inspiring young athlete who proudly represents his community while balancing sporting excellence with his education,” the MCs said.

Jewellery maker, weaver and artist Jamaya Branson was recognised for her contribution to sharing and celebrating Aboriginal culture.

“Through her artwork, Jamaya creates meaningful opportunities for storytelling, connection and cultural understanding,” the MCs said.

Finally, Alyssa DePasquale was given a junior encouragement award for her growing cultural confidence and commitment to learning.

Even at a young age, she had already started participating in clap stick performances and weaving with enthusiasm.

Murray Bridge Mayor Wayne Thorley spoke about the importance of celebrating Indigenous culture, which the council would do with the Ngarrindjeri-inspired design of a playground soon to be built at Sturt Reserve; and of stopping racism.

The event’s MCs reflected on NAIDOC Week itself: a platform, a protest, a celebration and a statement of survival.

“Fifty years of deadly … is a tribute to the people who built this movement: the elders who stood firm, the organisers who made space, the artists who turned resistance into expression, and the communities who keep showing up, year after year,” they said.