Nominations have opened for the annual Yandaarra Aunty Grace Roberts Awards, recognising outstanding Aboriginal leaders and organisations across the Coffs Harbour community.
The awards, which will be presented during NAIDOC Week in July, celebrate individuals who contribute to stronger communities and improved outcomes for First Nations people in the region.
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said the awards continue to grow in significance, with a record 50 nominations received last year.
“These awards began back in 1999 and the community interest in them has grown steadily,” she said.
“The overall winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at Yarrila Place on July 6 but right now we just want to see as many nominations as possible.”
The awards are presented across a range of categories, including the Aunty Grace Roberts Memorial Community Development Award, Aunty and Uncle Awards, Youth of the Year, and recognition for achievements in sport, arts, culture and community organisations.
Named in honour of Aunty Grace Roberts, the awards recognise her lasting contribution to the community and her leadership in supporting Aboriginal people in the region.
City Planning and Communities Director Ian Fitzgibbon said the awards would form part of a broader program of NAIDOC Week events.
“The Monday will be massive with a morning tea, lunch, lucky door prizes and the Jalay Jalay dancers all here at Yarrila Place,” he said.
“We hope for a good line-up of stall-holders in Riding Lane including the Elders, bush tucker plants and Will kits.”
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is “50 Years of Deadly”, celebrating the strength, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Additional events planned for the week include community discussions on local strategies and a guided tour of Coffs Harbour Airport highlighting areas of cultural significance for the Gumbaynggirr people.
The awards are presented by the City of Coffs Harbour in partnership with the Yandaarra Aboriginal Advisory Committee, with nominations now open to the public. To nominate someone visit here.
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