Local contributors recognised at gala awards function
Night of nights
A host of the region’s worthy contributors continue to celebrate this morning after collecting awards at one of the most recognisable and respected events on the annual calendar for local First Nation and Indigenous Australians.
The EKY awards recognise, showcase and highlight the marvellous achievements of those across many categories.
Primarily the gala awards evening was created and has a main ongoing charter to empower and uplift local First Nation Australians.
Ron Gibson won the highly coveted male elder of the year while Cissy Ross-Kelly claimed the same prize in the female category.
“It was a great occasion and one I know all nominees and winners left feeling empowered, proud and happy,” event spokesperson Kirsty Burchill told Newsport.
Winners’ list
- Male elder of the year – Roy Gibson
- Female elder of the year – Cissy Ross-Kelly
- Sports person of the year – Kym Missionary
- Musician of the year – Kirsty Burchill
- Lifetime achievement award - Janice Walker
- Female role model of the year – Kirsty Burchill
- Male role model of the year - Demilio Denman
- Youth of the year – Melekai William
- Advocate of the year – Sara Harris
- Artist of the year – Karen Gibson
- Indigenous business of the year – Walkabout Tours
- Caring for country – Jabalbina
- Scholar of the year – Bronson Ryan Snr