Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024

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Image credit: Detail shot – ‘On Country – Where the mountains meet the sea’ by Jodie Stewart

Background

Shoalhaven City Council is proud to partner with neighbouring councils Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama for the 2024 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards.

The awards are a highly anticipated occasion in the Illawarra/Shoalhaven region bringing together respected community leaders and honoured guests. They serve as a platform to recognise and celebrate the remarkable accomplishments and outstanding contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, organisations and local businesses make to their communities, Culture and Country across the region.

Ticket sales

Tickets are sold out for the 2024 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards in Nowra.

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

Saturday, 27 July 2024 at 4:30pm

Ticket price $80

For more information visit Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre website

Awards will be presented in six categories including:  

  • Elder of the Year (Aunty and Uncle)
  • Outstanding Contribution to the Community (Paid and Voluntary)
  • Young Achiever of the Year
  • Organisation of the Year (Not for Profit and For Profit)
  • Outstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal)
  • Caring for Country and Culture

The theme for NAIDOC Week this year is ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ recognises the unyielding spirit of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and invites all Australians to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices and celebrating their strength and perseverance.

The Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards is a collaboration between Shoalhaven, Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama councils presented in partnership with a range of sponsors including: Fulton Hogan, Big Fat Smile, Flagstaff Group, Yila Healing Trail, Cullunghutti Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Southern Youth and Family Services, ECTARC Early Childhood Education Services, Waminda, Shoalhaven Water, ALS Global, Barnardos Australia, Fiona Phillips MP, Liza Butler MP and South Coast Arts.

Entertainment during the event includes

Cultural performances and ceremonies - Gadhungal Marring

Gadhungal Marring is an Aboriginal led and operated cultural organisation, that are at the forefront of cultural revitalisation. They teach dance, art, and language and all aspects of culture. Through training, education, and employment pathways they create opportunities within their organisation and the broader community. They believe children are the future leaders and work to instil integrity, self-worth, belonging, pride, and happiness at the beginning of their journey. 

 Photo of Gadhungal Marring dancers in traditional dress performing a cultural dance.

Didgeridoo - Jiah King

Jiah King, a proud Waanyi, Pitta Pitta, and Wangkamaldha man. Jiah learnt the Didgeridoo from his father, Mark King, and shares his love and skill by teaching and performing, most notably with Shane Howard of Goanna, at the National Indigenous Tennis Carnivals in Darwin and Sydney, and through his work with the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. 

 Photo of Jiah King smiling at the camera.

Headline Act - Dan Sultan

Dan Sultan is multi-award winning alternative rock singer-songwriter and guitarist, actor, and author. Sultan's mother is Arrerntre/Gurindji of the Northern Territory and a direct descendant of Vincent Lingiari, a prominent leader in the land rights movement, while his father is Irish. Dan's accolades include multiple ARIA Awards including Best Male Artist and Best Blues and Roots Album at the 2010, Best Rock Album at the 2014, Best Children’s Album at the 2019 and Best Adult Contemporary Album at the 2023. 

Photo of musician Dan Sultan in a low-light lounge setting.

Master of Ceremonies - Shelley Ware

Shelley Ware, a Yankunyjatjara and Wirangu woman, with a decade of experience in media is widely recognised as one of the nation’s most respected female football presenters. She's a popular Master of Ceremonies and keynote speaker, who passionately shares her insights on females in sport, racism, and Aboriginal issues. With 25 years of teaching experience, she works to integrate Indigenous history and culture into classrooms and the national curriculum. 

Arrangements were made through Celebrity Speakers www.celebrityspeakers.com.au.

Photo of Shelley Ware holding a football and smiling at the camera

Nominations

Nominations are now closed.

Do you know a person, organisation or business from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community making a difference? Whether they have been an inspirational role model or accomplished something great, their efforts deserve recognition!

Proudly hosted by Shoalhaven in partnership with Kiama, Wollongong and Shellharbour councils these awards shine a light on the amazing contributions and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and businesses.

There are six award categories including:

  • Elder of the Year (Aunty and Uncle)
  • Outstanding Contribution to the Community (Paid and Voluntary)
  • Young Achiever of the Year
  • Organisation of the Year (Not for Profit and For Profit)
  • Outstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal)
  • Caring for Country and Culture

Nominations close at 11:59pm on Monday, April 1. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony being held at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre in Nowra on the evening of Saturday, July 27.

View nomination guide

Need help with your application?

If you would like more information about the application process – or if you would like assistance completing your application form – phone 1300 293 111 or email communityconnections@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au

Sponsorship

The 2024 Awards provide a special opportunity for local businesses and organisations to play a significant role in this year’s celebration. The event is anticipated to attract considerable media attention, providing sponsors a platform to demonstrate their commitment to supporting local Aboriginal culture and excellence.

By becoming a sponsor of the 2024 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards, you will gain valuable exposure to a diverse audience of professionals, respected community leaders and potential clients and play a key part in showcasing local Aboriginal contributions, achievements, and talent. You will help create a memorable evening which celebrates the rich history and culture of local communities across the region and demonstrates an important step forward in our joint commitment to reconciliation.

We look forward to the possibility of partnering with you to make the 2024 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards a memorable and treasured event for our community.

To sponsor the awards please see Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024 Sponsorship Package and complete the Sponsorship Details form.

We would be delighted to answer questions in relation to sponsorship packages or the awards. To discuss sponsorship packages or arrange an in-person meeting, please contact Community Connections on 1300 293 111 or email CommunityConnections@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au.

Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards 2024 Sponsorship Package

Sponsorship Details Form

When

  • Saturday, 27 July 2024 | 04:30 PM

Location

Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, 42 Bridge Rd, Nowra 2541  View Map

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