Shellharbour City Council is encouraging people across the region to submit a nomination for 2021 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards.

The awards are a collaborative event held by Kiama, Wollongong, Shoalhaven and Shellharbour councils to recognise the achievements of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people and organisations.

Shellharbour City Council will be hosting this year’s event on Saturday 24 July at the Shellharbour Civic Centre. Approximately 180 people are expected to attend the event including Aboriginal Elders, community members, sponsors and other dignitaries.

Awards are presented in the following categories: Aboriginal Elder of the Year (Male and Female), Aboriginal Community Representative of the Year, Aboriginal Young Achiever of the Year (Male and Female), Aboriginal Community Volunteer of the Year, and Outstanding Contribution to

Reconciliation (Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal).

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said that recognising the outstanding contributions of people across our local communities was a priority for council.

“Each year, this special event celebrates the invaluable efforts undertaken by first nation’s people to support and enhance our local communities, as well as people and organisations that work to protect all aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage,” Cr Saliba said

Make a nomination by completing and returning a printable NAIDOC Awards Nomination Form or filling out the online nomination form. Entries for hand-delivered or mailed applications close Monday 21 June 2021. Online applications close Friday 25 June 2021.

Shellharbour City Council is also seeking sponsorship for the event. To view sponsorship packages and apply visit https://bit.ly/2RhPitv.

Media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008