LOCAL HEROES HONOURED AT NAIDOC AWARDS

The achievements and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven were celebrated in a moving and memorable night at the 2025 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards on Saturday 26 July.

Caption: Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council. Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer and recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (Aboriginal) award, Aunty Lindy Lawler, at the 2025 NAIDOC Awards

Held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre, the sold-out event brought together communities from across the region to honour Elders, young people, volunteers, organisations and allies who have made a meaningful impact.

Hosted by Isaac Compton and headlined by the powerful vocals of Kutcha Edwards, the evening was filled with cultural pride, heartfelt storytelling, and vibrant performances.

Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the awards night captured the spirit of this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.

“This year marks 50 years of NAIDOC Week, and we were proud to reflect on the legacy of our Elders past and present while celebrating the leadership and promise of the next generation,” Mayor Homer said.

“Congratulations to all the award recipients and nominees. Each one has made an outstanding contribution to their community and deserves to be recognised.”

Caption: 2025 awards and the ceremonial Message Stick. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.

The awards were delivered by Shellharbour City Council in partnership with Wollongong City Council, Kiama Municipal Council and Shoalhaven City Council. The evening also featured a formal dinner, guest speakers, and powerful performances from local artists.

Winners of the 2025 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards:
• Elder of the Year (Aunty): Aunty Gwenda Jarrett
• Elder of the Year (Uncle): Uncle Stanley Jarrett
• Community Member of the Year: Ray Timbery
• Young Achiever of the Year: Kyarlee-Rose Clulow
• Young Achiever of the Year: Marle Ashby
• Caring for Country and Culture: Betty Smith
• Aboriginal Community Volunteer of the Year: Tina McGhie
• Organisation of the Year (business): CMJ Food Services
• Organisation of the Year (not-for-profit): Juborsay Aboriginal Education Consultative Group
• Outstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (Aboriginal): Aunty Lindy Lawler
• Outstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (non-Aboriginal): UOW Pulse – Kids' Uni

Council extends its heartfelt thanks to major event sponsors:

Burri Burri (Whale) - Platinum Sponsor
• Big Fat Smile

Ghoon a Ghaan (Starfish) - Gold Sponsor
• Southern Youth and Family Services
• ECTARC (Early Childhood Education Services and Training)
• Wollongong Strata Management

Garilwa (Koala) - Silver Sponsor
• Barnardos Australia, 
• SAHSSI (Supported Accommodation and Homelessness Services Shoalhaven Illawarra)
• Australian Laboratory Services

Council also extends its thanks to the generous support of Aboriginal Affairs NSW as part of the NSW Government’s NAIDOC Grants Program. 

KEY MESSAGES:
• The 2025 Regional NAIDOC Awards celebrated outstanding contributions by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and allies across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven.
• The event brought the community together for an evening of cultural pride, recognition and reflection, aligning with this year’s NAIDOC theme: The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.
• Winners were recognised across nine award categories, with heartfelt performances and 
support from key partners making the night a true celebration of community and culture.