Wathaurong crown NAIDOC award winners

THE winners of the 2023 Wathaurong Community NAIDOC Awards were announced yesterday (July 3) at the NAIDOC Week Flag Raising and Community Day held at the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative.

The awards ceremony and flag raising event marked the official start of NAIDOC Week, a celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people.

The winners included:

Nedok Yoongga (Elder/Respected Person) – Aunty Sandra Manning for her work in being a great role model for the community.

Ngarrwa Ngitj (Community Person) – Joint Winners – Jay Hickey and Nicole Kirby.

Jay was recognised for his outstanding community support and engagement with people of all ages and from all walks of life.

Nicole was cited for her dedication and support in being actively involved in the running of the Wathaurong Women’s Group.

Koolay Goopma (Young Male Achiever) – Vaughan Gray for his passion and dedication to his work with the Wathaurong youth.

Moordeemoondeek Goopma (Young Female Achiever) – Layla Boseley for her outstanding work in organising and participating in community events.

The 2023 NAIDOC theme is ‘For our Elders’ and celebrates the important role Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander elders have played and continue to play in communities and families.

NAIDOC Week runs until Sunday, July 9.