THE great achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders were recognised at a glittering function at the Muswellbrook RSL Club.
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And, organisers of the Upper Hunter NAIDOC Awards 2018 needed to put up the “full house” sign last Friday night, with more than 200 people in attendance.
Katie Van Vliet and Marcus Morris took out the Youth of the Year female and male honours, respectively, while Natasha Kellett walked away with the Volunteer of the Year title.
Singleton’s Warren Taggart received the plaudits for his Community Contribution, too.
The Elder of the Year recipients were Jeanine Pascoe (female) and Glenfor Morris (male).
“It was a terrific event,” Wanaruah Local Aboriginal Land Council, and NAIDOC Committee, chairperson Aunty Jean Hands said.
“Even better is the fact we have an opportunity to acknowledge feats in all areas of society, from education to art, industry to community, sport and youth.
“Congratulations to all the nominees.
“I got told the quality of the entrants, and winners, was excellent.
"The judges also mentioned what a tough job they had.
“Our thanks go to Daryl and Karen Egan for facilitating everything at the Muswellbrook RSL Club as well.”
A new category, Because of her, We Can! – which was the 2018 NAIDOC Week theme, went to a trio of well-deserved women in Aunty Jean, Amanda Howard and Deirdre Heitmeyer.
“Apparently, the judges couldn’t make a decision between the three of us,” she said.
“But, it’s an honour to share it [the award] with Amanda and Deirdre.
“In some ways, it shows that hard work within your community does pay off.
“It also gives you a bit of self-confidence.
“You don’t do what we do for praise, however it’s nice to feel appreciated in your own community.”