Image: Sitting front row L-R, Les Coulthard For Dr Clifford Coulthard, Eloise Schrader, Dr Jenni Caruso, Dr Jared Thomas, Eunice Aston. Back row L-R, Tashara Wilson, Joanna Agius, Hunter Vandenberg on behalf of Sandy Miller, Harley Hall Klynton.
In a momentous ceremony, two highly-respected Aboriginal elders were bestowed with the highest honour at the 2023 Premier’s NAIDOC Awards for their unwavering dedication to indigenous communities.
Premier Peter Malinauskas presented Eunice Aston and Frank Lampard OAM with the prestigious awards, recognising their profound impact on improving the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in South Australia.
“The NAIDOC Awards honor the achievements of those Aboriginal South Australians who have made an extraordinary difference in the lives of Aboriginal people in this state,” expressed Premier Peter Malinauskas.
“Both Eunice Aston and Frank Lampard have shown an incredible level of dedication to their communities, working tirelessly to improve the quality of life and supports available to Aboriginal people living in South Australia. On behalf of all Australians, I commend them for their efforts and thank them for their ongoing work.”
Eunice Aston, the NAIDOC SA Ambassador, has dedicated over two decades to the Aboriginal healthcare sector, making a significant impact in various areas such as residential care, home and community care, family and wellbeing, as well as Family and Youth Services. Her relentless commitment has positively influenced the lives of countless individuals.
Frank Lampard OAM embarked on his career as a teacher, later assuming senior roles in the public sector, including Commissioner for Aboriginal Engagement. He also served as the Executive Director of the Aboriginal Prisoners and Offenders Support Service for ten years. Even in retirement, Frank remains actively involved with Aboriginal Veterans South Australia, continuing to contribute to his community’s well-being.
“I congratulate Eunice Aston and Frank Lampard for their recognition of service to their communities,” stated Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Kyam Maher.
“Both Eunice and Frank have contributed decades of their lives to improving the well-being of Aboriginal South Australians.”
The prestigious Dr Alice Rigney Prize, which acknowledges the accomplishments of an Aboriginal student in years 10 to 12, was awarded to Makayla Buse, currently studying in year 10 at the Kaurna Plains R-12 School.
Makayla’s remarkable journey involved overcoming tremendous challenges, exemplified by her outstanding 97% attendance rate and a significant increase in her engagement in learning over the past two years.
“Makayla Buse has overcome tremendous challenges to achieve a 97% attendance rate, with her engagement in learning increasing dramatically over the past two years,” said Maher.
“It’s a remarkable achievement, and I’m pleased we have been able to recognise her work in this important field.”
The 2023 Premier’s NAIDOC Awards serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions made by Aboriginal leaders and students, highlighting their unwavering dedication to their communities.
