- Western Australia
- Victoria
- South Australia
- Queensland
- Northern Territory
- New South Wales
- Australian Capital Territory
Leaders for Western Australia(WA)
Lowell Hunter – Broome, WA
Lowell is a Bardi man from Broome now living in Victoria. In the future Lowell is hoping to assist youths through youth work programs. Lowell says his greatest achievement in life is his son. His vision for the future is to see all peoples living together harmoniously and to see Indigenous communities drug and alcohol free.
Reg Yarran – Perth, WA
Reg is from Noongar country, in South West WA. He is a leader in his family on native title issues. Reg also works as a Project Officer for Aboriginal Economic Development. His vision for the future is to be successful in Native Title, and to see Noongar’s united. Reg says his greatest achievement was applying for an international exchange program to the US and Canada.
Raphael Bellotti – Geraldton/Greenough, WA
Raphael is a Yamatji/Bunjima man from the Top End now living in Geraldton. He works as a mentor for a mining and civil construction training program. Raphael says his greatest achievements have been through this mentoring, and being known as a role model throughout the community. He also draws great pride from sharing his life with his family. His vision is to help youth finish school and gain full time employment through traineeships and apprenticeships assisted by the Bayalgu program.
Gordon Clinch – Geraldton, WA
Gordon is a Yamitji/Noongar man and works as a youth project officer. Gordon says his greatest achievement is being successful as a young person and encouraging the younger generation to strive and achieve. His vision is to see young people step up and take the lead in their own communities.
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Zain Laudehr – Geraldton, WA
Zain is living in Geraldton and is a Bardi, NgulNgul and Giija man. He works as a senior youth project officer on the Country Arts Program in WA. Zain says his greatest achievement is having skills and knowledge in his profession at a young age and being able to mentor others. His vision is to empower young people and lead them on a journey for a better tomorrow.
Paul Parfitt – Perth, WA
Paul is a Noongar man and is working in Perth as an Aboriginal drug and alcohol worker. Paul says his greatest achievement in life is dealing with the past as a member of the Stolen Generation and coming to terms with how it affected him. He is also proud that he has been able to work for most of his life. His vision is to see his grandchildren gain a good education and have a great start to life.
Michael Whitby – Geraldton, WA
Michael is a Yamatji man living in Geraldton. He currently works as a community patrol day shift supervisor. His vision for the future is to enable homeless Indigenous men and women to find homes.
Kelvin Collard – Perth, WA
Kelvin is a Noongar man working in Perth as a mining supply tech. Kelvin says his greatest achievement was gaining employment in the mining industry and building a career. His vision is to encourage more Aboriginal people into employment in the mining industry.
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Murray Wynne – Albany WA
Murray is a Noongar man working as a mining service production tech. Murray says his greatest achievement in life is working from the day he left school. His vision is to get the younger generation into meaningful employment early in life and getting them into good habits.
Hector O’Loughlin – Perth, WA
Hector is a Wongi man from Kalgoorlie. He works as an advisor in his area. Hector says his greatest achievement in life was meeting his family. His vision for the future is to see more Indigenous people in parliament.
Tony Hansen – Perth, WA
Tony is from the Katanning (Central), Great Southern Willman people. He is a Senior Officer for Aboriginal Services, and provides consultations for the Department for Child Protection in WA. His vision for the future is bringing communities together and giving young people every opportunity to succeed in life. Tony says his greatest achievements in life are surviving Native Welfare Day and his family and community
Ashley Bin Omar – Broome, WA
Ashley is a Bardi man, Derby born and now living in Broome. He is a Remote Area Co-ordinator with the Kimberley Aged and Community Services. His vision is to see an Indigenous person in parliament, and to have all peoples work together. Ashley says his greatest achievement is his family
Mervyn Collard – Fitzroy Crossing, WA
Mervyn is originally from Narrogin, South West WA. Currently Mervyn is a leading hand Orderly. His vision is to see more Indigenous people in positions of influence to affect change. Mervyn says his greatest achievement in life is having kids and now working full-time
Mitchell Lawrence William – Carnarvon, WA
Mitchell is from the Malgana people on his mothers side and Njamal people on his fathers side. He is a Coordinator for the community patrol. His vision is to improve our youth’s education and his greatest achievement is getting married to a lovely Nhanda girl.
Ron Williams – Esperance, WA
Ron is a Wongi man, working as a process tech in mining. Ron says his greatest achievement in life is adopting his three kids and raising them with his wife. His vision is for the youth of his community to be successful.
Jerry Maher – Port Hedland,
Jerry is a Noongar man, and works as a manager. He says his greatest achievement has been pulling through a triple by-pass and giving away smoking after 25 years. His vision is to be strengthened with knowledge and confidence to help his community.
Henley Hunter – Broome, WA
Henley is a Bardi Jawi/Nyul Nyul man who is an inspirational young leader. His vision is to see young people have a good life and family. Henley says his greatest achievement is being strong for his family through hard times.
Triston Bergmann - Kimberley, Northern WA
Triston is from Derby and works for BHP Billiton in supply. He would like to see all Indigenous employees strive not just to get a job but advance their career. He also has a vision to see employers recognise and facilitate certain basic skills needing training for career advancement. Triston says his greatest achievements throughout his working life have been always getting a job off his own back and working hard. His greatest personal achievement has been recently buying his first home in a nice area of Perth.
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Kenneth Torres - Kimberley Northern, WA
Kenneth is a Yawara, Bardi man. He is an Electorate Officer to the member for Kimberley Shire Council Candidate, and a committee member for Barramundi Concert. His vision is to see Indigenous people prosper and hopefully have an Indigenous Prime Minister in his lifetime. Kenneth says his greatest achievements were being selected to represent his region at the 2020 youth summit, and being selected as the member for Kimberley, Minister for Health, Racing, Gaming, Liquor and Road Safety at the WA youth parliament.
Shane Derschow – Perth, WA
Shane is from the Bunjina language group and Derschow family from Mulga Downs’s station. He is currently a community operations support officer. He is also the Community Board Director (2008-2011) of Gumala Aboriginal Corporation. His vision is to push himself as far as he can in the education, the workforce, culture and community fields. Shane says his greatest achievements include graduating with a Diploma from Tranby (Aboriginal College), being elected to the Board of Directors Cumala Aboriginal Corp, and being 2nd in charge of the local Aboriginal Medical Service (AMS) in 2005-06
Chris Bagshaw – Perth, WA
Chris is a Kojonup man, working as a Senior Officer for Aboriginal Services. His vision is to break bad cycles in the community to build safe and sustainable families. Chris says his greatest achievement in his life is his family.
Ian Rivers – Esperance, WA
Ian is a Noongar man, working for BHP Billiton. His vision is to teach children about the risks of drugs and alcohol and to encourage children in sport. Ian says his greatest achievement so far has been helping others.
Keith Churnside – Roebourne, WA
Keith is an Injibarndi/Ngarluma man, currently working as a Health Worker for his area. His vision is for his people to be drug free and to have a healthier lifestyle enabling them to live longer. Keith says his greatest achievement so far has been overcoming an illness that nearly took his life and also becoming a grandfather.
Dudley Callaghan – Wyndham, WA
Dudley is a Ngul Ngul/Bardi man currently working as a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor. His vision is to teach the youth and community about the risks of drugs and alcohol. Dudley says his greatest achievement has been through helping others achieve their goals.
David McNamara - Fitzroy Crossing, WA
David is a Diesel Fitter at BHP Billiton. His vision is to break bad cycles, so his kids can have a better life and the next generation has better outcomes than the past. David says his greatest achievement in life has been assisting apprentices to complete their training.
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Leaders from Victoria (Vic)
Jack Charles – Melbourne, VIC
Jack is a Yorta Yorta / Wurongeru man. He works as a Performer/Teacher in acting. His vision is to develop a community/cultural centre in Melbourne. Jack says one of his greatest achievements include developing the Nindebiya Theatre in 1970. He has also maintained connections to “mobs at risk’ as the definitive role model in regards to drug and alcohol in community.
Howard Edwards – Melbourne, VIC
Howard is a Yorta Yorta, Taungrung, Boonerurig, Muthi Muthi man. He is a community member and an arts and craft person. His vision is to be a strong person for his family and community. Howard says his greatest achievement has been his contribution to the community and other people’s lives.
Wayne Thorpe – Latrobe Valley, VIC
Wayne is from the Morwell (Latrobe Valley), Brayukaloong, Gunnai people. He is an Aboriginal Liaison Officer and Community Cultural Worker. His vision is to develop regular cultural gatherings for the local Aboriginal community. Wayne says his greatest achievement has been learning linguistics to understand Aboriginal language, spelling, pronunciation and structure and finding the true meanings of the words.
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Leaders for South Australia(SA)
Warrick Clinch – Adelaide, SA
Warrick is a Yamatji (WA) man currently living in Adelaide. Warrick is currently working as an Information Architect and his vision is to ensure a better and brighter future for the next generation. One of his greatest achievements so far is receiving the Association Medal for the Metro South Under 17’s football competition.
Kevin Coleman – Adelaide, SA
Kevin is originally from Flinders Island (Tasmania) and is currently living in Adelaide. Kevin is a Youthlinx worker in his community and says his greatest achievement so far is his daughter, and staying clean of drugs and alcohol. His vision for the future of Australia is to see reconciliation within Australia in a true and meaningful way.
Jodus Madrid – Adelaide, SA
Jodus is a Bunjalung/Kamilaroi man currently living in Adelaide. He works as an Indigenous Consultant in case management through a local training centre. Jodus says his greatest achievements in life are presenting academic papers around the world, having the opportunity to travel and filming documentaries and his family. His vision for the future is to see compulsory Indigenous History being taught in primary and secondary school education. Jodus also sees economic development and self autonomy as a key for a positive future in Indigenous communities.
Casey Schapel – Adelaide (Kuarna), SA
Casey is an Ngarrindjeri (Murray Bridge) man. He works as a Business Development Consultant. Casey says his greatest achievement is assisting clients with disabilities into stable and supported employment. His vision is to see more high achieving Indigenous people, building a better reputation for themselves. He also wishes to one day see an Indigenous Prime Minister.
Terry Sparrow – Adelaide, SA
Terry is a Ngarrindjeri (Coorong) man. He works as a Principal Officer for Premier and Cabinet in South Australia. Trevor says his greatest achievement in life is being a good father and being able to provide for his immediate and extended family. His vision is to see equal opportunities and potential for Indigenous Australians.
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Heathe Champion – Ceduna, SA
Heath works as business manager in Ceduna. He says his greatest achievement is his family. His vision is to build a sustainable Aboriginal community.
Farin Wanganeen – Adelaide, SA
Farin is a Narungga man working as a manager in community wellbeing for the Central Northern Adelaide Health Service. Farin says his greatest achievement is fatherhood. His vision for the future is to see Indigenous communities manage themselves with little assistance from governments.
Hedley Vogt – Mt Barker, SA
Hedley is an Alice Springs man working as an Australian Quarantine Inspection Officer. Hedley says his greatest achievement is being a father. His vision for the future is to continue to improve his writing skills.
Leeroy Bilney – Tia Tuckia community, SA
Leeroy is a Liyakath, Wirangu, Wangai, Noongar and Gubbin man. He works as a case worker and support officer within the Department of Families and Community Services SA. His vision for the future is to use his own personal achievement to lead, inspire and motivate other Aboriginal people to achieve their own goals.
Derek Forbes – Adelaide, SA
Derek is a Narranga/Mirning man working as a youth worker in his community. Derek says his greatest achievement is working with the youth and seeing them achieve better lives. His vision is to see the world free of Sexually Transmitted Infections
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Gavin (Billy) Haseldine – Ceduna, SA
Gavin is a Kokatha man now working for Legal Aid as a legal representative for the disadvantaged. Gavin says his greatest achievement in life was getting a position as Administrator within his office and raising five children. His vision is to be a respected leader/member of his community, and to raise his children with good values and a good education.
Wayne Haseldine – Ceduna, SA
Wayne is a Kogida man living in Ceduna. He is a leader for his family, and his greatest achievement has been setting up camps for troubled youth. His vision is for a strong healthy community and a good future for Aboriginal people.
Timothy John Dudley - Port Lincoln, SA
Timothy is a Kookata/Mirning (Nunga) man who is an education worker. His vision is to see his people look after themselves, and to see more Indigenous people in the Government Sector - (e.g. police, lawyers, health, education) Timothy says his greatest achievement so far is learning from others and leading by example.
Gino Iuliano – Adelaide, SA
Gino is a Kuarna/Narunga man. He works as an advocate for Aboriginal children and young people in care. His vision is to work in his community with others to help families become stronger and lead by example to help young people become strong Aboriginal people. Gino says his greatest achievement in life is being a good father and family man.
Vince Buckskin – Adelaide, SA
Vince is a Wirangu/Kaurna/Narungpa man. He works as an Aboriginal Inclusion Officer for the Dept of Education and Children Services. His hope for the future is to see Nunga kids achieving education success. Vince says his greatest achievement has been working throughout his whole life.
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Patrick Sharpe – Ceduna, SA
Patrick is a Mirning man working as a Snr Receptionist. His vision is to involve young people in the decision making process for his community. Patrick says his greatest achievements are his children, and maintaining ongoing employment.
Wayne Buckskin – Adelaide, SA
Wayne is a Kauna, Narungga, Wirangu man. He is a Trainee with the South Australia Police. His vision it to be more involved with his community and also help young Aboriginal kids. Wayne says his greatest achievements have been his traineeship with the Police and getting his South Australian Certificate of Education
Jamie McCafferty – Adelaide, SA
Jamie is a Ngarrindjeri man working as a Customer Service Advisor at Centrelink in SA. His vision is to inspire and mentor young Aboriginal men to enter the public sector and to undertake leadership roles. Jamie says his greatest achievement is meeting his wife, getting married and winning five of the past eight premiership with the Parra Eels rugby league team in SA.
Leaders for Queensland(Qld)
Stan Banu – Boigu Island, Torres Strait
Stan works as a Youth Officer and an Australian Quarantine Inspection Officer. Stan says his greatest achievement is being a father, a role model and spiritual advisor in his community. His vision for the future is to be a faithful leader for his children and his community.
Eric J Peter – Cairns, QLD
Eric is from Boigu Island, and works as an Australian Quarantine Inspection Officer. Eric says his greatest achievement is being a proud Indigenous man working in a commonwealth department. His vision is to see better outcomes for the Indigenous community.
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Darren Brady – Brisbane (Inala), QLD
Darren is a Birri Gubba/Kuku Kuku Yelangi man. He is currently working as a health worker for QLD Health. Darren Says his greatest achievement was the celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievement through the coordination of the Musgrave Park Family Day in 2008. His vision for the future is to see equality and fairness for all.
Tolowa Nona
Tolowa is a Badu Island man from the Torres Strait, currently living in Brisbane. He is the Pastor/ Bishop of a large area in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait, including his community. Tolowa can be described as a humble and tolerant man. He is proud of participating in the leadership program which is assisting him in his leadership before leading others. Tolowa's vision is to expose the institutionalised mindset and thinking that has been imposed on Indigenous people
Kevin Maund – Redcliffe, Qld
Kevin is from the Mamu Rainforest people in Innisfail, QLD. He is a member of his local community group, and is involved in his community in a number of ways including a member of the QLD Health Rebound Program, working in schools as a counsellor and as a member of the Redcliffe Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men’s group. His vision is to return to Innisfail armed with the knowledge to affect change in his community.
Jeffrey Bosuen – Horn Island, Torres Strait
Jeffrey is a Kaurareg man. He has a role as a clan Elder and says his greatest achievement is working together to build a better community. His hope for the future is for governments to listen to the voices of Indigenous people.
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Todd Phillips – Brisbane QLD
Todd is from Grafton, NSW (Bunjalung Nation). He is currently an Educational Research Officer implementing numerary and literacy programs in Aboriginal communities throughout QLD. His vision is to see more Indigenous men and women across the country working in positions of prominence and setting high standards of living for all Australians. Todd says his greatest achievement was being accepted to attend the Bill Clinton Global Initiatives University in the USA and to be mentored by the former president.
Brock Schafer-Phillips – Gold Coast, QLD
Brock is a Minjungbal man, working as a scaffolder on the Gold Coast. His vision for the future is to see his life become stronger, happier and to live independently. Brock says his greatest achievements are learning to be self-reliant and bringing himself out of bad times to become happy, stronger and full of self-respect.
Robert Salam – Bundaberg, QLD
Robert is a Moa Island man from the Torres Strait.
Harry Van Issum – Brisbane, QLD
Harry is a Wappa Burra man, from the Darumbal language group (Rockhampton region). He is a lecturer at Griffith University in Indigenous issues and education, and also works as a private consultant for business and training. Harry says his greatest achievement is having a stable family and gaining respect from extended family and community. His vision is to see cohesion and unity within Indigenous families and communities, and to see lives improved.
Gavin Tye – Brisbane, QLD
Gavin is from the Woorabinda community. He works in recruitment retention and career development for Indigenous staff working within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure the EPA is a place where Indigenous people want to work. Gavin says his greatest achievement was receiving a Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Leadership from Griffith University whilst working full time. His vision is to see equality in health and life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and to see a reduction in contact between Indigenous communities and the criminal justice system.
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Geoff Lui – Townsville, QLD
Geoff is a Kulkalgal man from the Central Islands of the Torres Strait. His role is a Senior Quarantine Officer with Australian Quarantine and Inspection Services. His vision is to have Indigenous leadership of the highest quality. Geoff says his greatest achievement so far has been becoming a father and husband
Torres Webb – Cairns, QLD
Torres if from Darnley Island – Torres Strait. He has worked for a number of agencies including Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), Australian Quarantine Inspection Service (AQIS) and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). His vision is to be a role model, advocate and leader for Indigenous Australians. Torres says his greatest achievement has been completing a Bachelor of Applied Science
Leon Pryor – Townsville, QLD
Leon is a Kanju (Wenlock River), Birri Gubba and Bindal (Townsville) man. He works as a Mentor/Trainer. His vision is to get Indigenous people out of their comfort zone and get them motivated to have full time employment. He also wants to see mindsets and thinking changed within Indigenous communities. Leon says his greatest achievement has been finishing school.
Bert Edward Doolan – Townsville, QLD
Bert is from Townsville (Kaanju and Bindal people). His role is as a mentor and Employment Officer. His vision is to see Indigenous people gain self confidence, pride and responsibility for their families. Bert says his greatest achievement is his family and his daughter.
Sam Reuben – Townsville, QLD
Sam is from Daly River and Darnley Island. His role is as a Principal Project Officer. His vision is to see Indigenous Australians becoming self reliant and to see health improvements in Indigenous communities. Sam says his greatest achievement has been as the Australian delegate at United Nations Headquarters in New York City
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Colin Doolah – Mackay, QLD
Colin is from the Torres Strait, Yorke and Darnley Islands. His role is as STEP-ERS Coordinator assisting Indigenous people into employment. His vision and hope for the future is unity, peace and harmony.
Colin Kunggurra Gray – Yarrabah, QLD
Colin is a Yidiuji man. His role includes providing a helping hand to guide younger people to be the best they can be in what ever field they choose. His vision is to be a positive role model, not just for his community but for all Indigenous youth. Colin says his greatest achievement was taking the first step to reaching his full potential.
Wees Cook - Thursday Island, QLD
Wees is from Erub and Badu Islands currently working as a Bank Teller. His vision is to be the best possible father to his new born son by providing him with the best qualities of life. Wees says his greatest achievement is not being afraid when travelling in planes anymore.
John Brady - Inala, QLD
John is from Ku Ku Yalanjii (north of Mareeba) and Birri Gubba (Proserpine). He is a Health Worker/Project Officer. His vision is for the Inala Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people to be positive role models. His greatest achievement has been his family and bring around positive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men on a national level
Mislam Sam – no bio provided
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Leaders for Northern Territory(NT)
Niki Ross – Alice Springs, NT
Niki works as a Development Officer for the Central Australian Petrol Sniffing Strategy Unit (FAHCSIA). His vision is to see Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people equal. Niki says his greatest achievement so far is finishing high school successfully.
Geoffrey Barnes – Lajamanu Community, NT
Geoffrey is a Warlpiri man working as the Assistant Shire Service Manager to the Lajamanu Central Desert Shire. He is also a leader in his clan. Geoffrey says his greatest achievement has been completing his Diploma and Cert IV in Business Management. His vision is to see more employment opportunities and better living circumstances for Indigenous Australians.
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Marius Puruntatamer – Tiwi Islands, NT
Marius is a Health Officer in his community on Tiwi Islands. Marius says being involved in the main decision making process’ of his community has been his greatest achievement in his life so far. His vision for the future is to empower not only people from the Tiwi Islands, but all Indigenous people.
Robert Japalyi George – Lajamanu Community, NT
Robert is a (Gurindji) Kalkaring man. He works as an Environmental Health Recycler. His vision and aim in life is to keep his community clean, and to encourage others to do the same.
Peter Walsh - Alice Springs, NT
Peter is originally from Broome, WA. He is currently a Project Officer with the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. His hope for the future is closing the gap in health, employment and education. Peter says his greatest achievement has been bringing family factions together and achieving a positive and sustainable outcome
James Woods - Ngukurr NT
James is an Ngalaka man working as a supervisor for Community Development Employments Programs (CDEP). His vision is to be a leader in his community and to see improvements. James says his greatest achievement is being a supervisor and gaining the respect of his staff.
Stewart Hall - Ngukurr NT
Stewart is an Ngandi man and works as a plumber. His vision is to become a manager in his community. Stewart says his greatest achievement has been becoming a plumber and looking after his community
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Jesse King – Katherine, NT
Jesse is a Wanyi/Jangalida man. He works as an Indigenous Education Worker in Katherine. His vision is to see his family being confident and sustainable. Jesse says his greatest achievement has been working with kids and watching them grow into confident, intelligent people
Jeremy Gumana - Ngukurr Community, NT
Jeremy is a Gumana man. His vision is to help teach children in his community andHe hopes to be a better teacher in the future.
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Aaron Dick - Alice Springs, NT
Aaron’s mother is a Noongar woman, and his father is a Bardi man. He currently works in education and training and his vision is to improve Indigenous communities. Aaron says his greatest achievement is being a father of five children and one foster child.
Moses Jungarryi Gibson – Nyiripi, NT
Moses is a Walpiri man from NT. His vision is to learn and teach, and be able to pass on cultural knowledge to the next generation so tradition lives on. Moses says his greatest achievement is having worked at the National Gallery of Australia.
David Parfitt – Darwin, NT
David is a Larrakia man from Darwin. He works as a Community Support Officer for an alcohol and drug program. His vision is for people to increase their knowledge of themselves/family/community and to become a community role model. David says his greatest achievement so far was assisting Denpelli with a volatile substance plan and captaining the footy team to a Grand Final
Gibson James Farmer - Milikapiti Community, Melville Island NT
Gibson is from Tiwi Island and works for the Great Southern Association as a Tiwi Liaison Officer. He is also a Tiwi Land Council Member. His vision is to get young people a job with Forestry Projects and be leaders in their community. He also wants to be a role model for others. Gibson says his greatest achievement so far has been assisting young people into employment working for Great Southern Forestry on the island.
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Burrkitj Ngurrumutthun - Yirrkala Community, NT
Burrkitj (Bogie) is a Munuku man. He works with Community Development Employments Programs (CDEP). Bogie says his greatest achievements so far have been through his employment. His vision is to improve his community.
Darren Miritjnga Maymuru - Yirrkala Community, NT
Darren is a Magalili man Currently working as a Training Support Officer in Laynapuy Homeland Association. His vision is to keep improving the community. Darren says his greatest achievement has been looking after his country and teaching his kids
Leonard (Lenny) Cooper - Alice Springs, NT
Leonard is a Yorta Yorta man, working as an Assistant Coordinator for Tangentyere Safe Families. His vision is to see all children in a safe environment in family care. Lenny says his greatest achievement was to be a mentor for the kids he has worked with, through sport and work. He has also presented a paper at the CRANA conference and been published in a nurses journal.
Christian Tilmouth - Ti Tree 6 Mile Community, NT
Christian is an Anmatjere man currently completing his education through Kormilda College. His vision is to become an Aboriginal Community Police Officer. Christian says his greatest achievement so far has been winning the premiership flag for under 17s – Ti Tree Roosters, 2003.
Leaders for New South Wales(NSW)
William Towney - Taree, NSW
William is a Wiradjuri man, working as a Country Energy Line Worker. He wishes to urge youth to repel against drugs, violence and crime and follow the right path to a better life for themselves and future family. William says his greatest achievement has been listening to his father who has taught him a lot about life from his experiences.
Robert Leslie – Penrith, NSW
Robert is a Gamilaroi man of North West NSW. He is an Aboriginal Community Development worker with Blacktown City Council. His vision is to improve lifestyle and education of Aboriginal people in Western Sydney. Robert says his greatest achievements have been completing his Bachelor of Welfare and being married with three boys.
Stephan Jaeggi – Blacktown, NSW
Stephan is a Bundjalung man, working as a Natural Resorce Officer. His vision is to see more social and sporting events on regular basis for the Western Sydney Area. Stephan says greatest achievements have been gaining his trade certificate for parks and gardens horticulture, and also becoming the Australian/Oceania wrestling champion (60kg category)
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Vincent Cook - Kempsey NSW
Vincent is a Dunghutti man who works with New Horizons, supporting people with poor mental health. His vision is to engage the whole community to work together to improve living and health standards. Vincent says his greatest achievements have been working at the Sydney Olympics 2000, and completing two diplomas in Aboriginal studies and Community Development in Aboriginal Communities
Gary Potts – Campbelltown, NSW
Gary is a Wirajuri man from Parkes NSW. He works as an Aboriginal housing officer with the Department of Housing NSW. His vision is to help the youth of today reach their full potential and help the elderly live a good life. Gary says his greatest achievement is being the father of three beautiful daughters.
Colin Gibson – Newcastle, NSW
Colin is from the Awabakal, Brewarrina/Bourke (Ngemba/Barkindji) Dubbo/Euabalong (Wiradjuri) people. He works as an Indigenous Services Officer for Centrelink. His vision is to see Aboriginal people in all types of employment that brings them satisfaction and to see unity with all people. He draws great pride from working 14 years in the same department. Colin says his greatest achievement is being married for 18 years with five children and a respected member of his family.
Todd Marr – Dubbo, NSW
Todd is a Wiradjuri man working as a personal support program coordinator. His vision is to help Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islanders achieve goals, seek better opportunities, realise their full potential and overall have equal opportunities. Todd says his greatest achievement has been assisting Indigenous people in achieving their goals and overcoming their barriers.
Craig Trindall – Narrabri, NSW
Craig is from the Gomeroi/Gamilaroi people of NSW. He is an Aboriginal Heritage Conservation Officer with NSW State Government Department. His hope for the future is to put back into his community, to learn more about his culture and pass this knowledge onto his family and community, to encourage and assist the mob in making decisions affecting management of Country. Craig says his greatest achievements have been his kids, playing representative cricket, developing and achieving goals with his partner for their family and future.
Stephen Mason – Newcastle, NSW
Stephen is an Allante (NT) man currently living in Newcastle NSW. Stephen works as a Customer Service Officer, liaising with the community for a child support agency. Stephen says his family is his greatest achievement and inspiration in his life. His family also shapes his vision for the future in becoming a role model for his kids and his peers.
Johnny Huckle – Condobolin, NSW
Jonny is from the Wiradjuri nation, living in Condobolin NSW. He is a role model, willing to share his skills and knowledge with those in his community. Jonny’s aim for the future is to improve all areas of his community including health, wealth and personal commitment for individual and community betterment. His greatest achievement in life is raising his children with good self esteem, drug and alcohol free.
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Cyril Davis – Kempsey NSW
Cyril is from the Dunghutti and Gumbangirr nations. Cyril’s vision for the future is to be a great leader for his community. He draws his inspiration from his current role as an uncle to the young men in his community.
Craig Craigie - Toormina, NSW
Craig is from the Gomilaroi Nation currently working with NSW Aboriginal Land Council. His vision is to see his people achieve social political and economic independence. Craig says his greatest achievement so far has been playing for the 1st Indigenous National Australian side in Oztag
Jason Bell – La Perouse, NSW
Jason is originally from the Northern Rivers community, and currently manages his own painting business. Jason says that this has been his greatest achievement in life so far. His other great achievements include helping his kids set their own goals in life, and being a mentor for the youth in his community. His vision for the future is to someday be a millionaire.
David Kampers – Illawarra, NSW
David is a Nynoogar man working as a lecturer. His vision is for greater acknowledgement of Indigenous history as valid and relevant. David says his greatest achievement so far has been graduating from university and being a great role model to his kids.
Darrel Donovan – Kempsey NSW
Michael is a Pitjantjatjara Narrugga man who lives at Riverland, SA. In his community, Michael is a Coordinator of youth services and a board member for Indigenous community organisations. He is committed to the advancement of Indigenous affairs and is proud of being a member of the State/Commonwealth Welfare Administrators' Working Party which affected legislative changes regarding the adoption and fostering of Aboriginal children. Michael is also proud of being an Australian and International performing artist. In the future he would like to see real equality.
Desmone B. Williams – Tweed, NSW
Desmone is a Gumbangirr man from Nambucca river on the North Coast of NSW. He is the Chairman of the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and also works towards finding and recording Aboriginal sites. Desmone says his greatest achievement in life was becoming an ATSIC Commissioner and raising well adjusted children. His vision for the future is to hear men, women and children speaking his mother’s language through the language revival.
Daniel Hoskins– Coffs Harbour, NSW
Daniel is a Dunghutti man from Kempsey and now lives in Coffs Harbour. He works as an employment consultant within his community. Daniel is a proud father of five daughters and sees this as his greatest achievement in life. His vision for the future is to see Aboriginal people regain control of their lands.
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Errol Clarke – Taree, NSW
Errol lives in Taree, and works as an art and culture coordinator. Errol says his greatest achievement in life was being nominated for Vice President for the NSW AECG (Aboriginal Education Consultative Group). His vision for the future is to guide Indigenous people to a better future with their cultural knowledge.
Cecil Keed – Queanbeyan, NSW
Cecil is a Wradjuri man from Peak Hill in NSW. His vision for the future is to be an up and coming leader, to be the best he can and to help others to a better future. Cecil says greatest achievement and inspiration in life is his daughter.
Darryll Farrell – Worrigee, NSW
Darryll is a Dharawal man working as an Indigenous Service Advisor. Darryll says his greatest achievement in life is his family of four children. His vision for the future is to see his children achieve the goals they set for themselves.
Mark Ross – Box Ridge (Coraki) NSW
Mark is a Bundjalung man. He has a role as a leader in his community. His vision is to see people fulfilled throughout their lives. Mark says his greatest achievement was learning how to play the guitar.
Luke Murphy – Taree, NSW
Luke is a Biripi, Thungutti man living in Taree. He is a Youth Worker in his community and his vision for the future is to inspire people to live a great life.
Paul Brown – La Perouse, NSW
Paul is a Yuin man from the south coast of NSW. He works as a builder. Paul says his greatest achievement is his family, marriage and children. His vision in life is to help others in his community.
Brentyn Lugnan – Wollongong, NSW
Brentyn is a Gumbayngirr/Urunga man currently living in Wollongong. He works as an artist and designer. Brentyn says his greatest achievement is his family, being a father and receiving recognition for his art. His vision for the future is self reliance and land ownership.
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Harry Callaghan – Taree, NSW
Harry is from Kempsey and is now living in Taree. He is working as a youth service manager/CEO. Harry says his greatest achievement was receiving a Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion. His aim in the future is to become more intensively involved in the political arena.
Oliver Costello – Sydney, NSW
Oliver is a Bunjalung man from Lismore. He is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts in Adult Education and Community Management. He also works for the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Student Association Indigenous Affairs, the UTS Library and assisted with work for Get Up on Indigenous campaign as an Intern. His vision for the future is to contribute to the progressive development of sustainable and vibrant communities across Australia. Oliver says his greatest achievement so far is commencing his University studies.
Malcolm Towney – Queanbeyan, NSW
Malcolm is a Wiradjuri man from Peak Hill, NSW. He works as a Community Development Officer of Aboriginal projects for Queanbeyan City Council. Malcom says his greatest achievement in life is his family.
Mitchell Johnson – Moree, NSW
Mitchell is a Kamilaroi man who has worked in local government for the past 12 years. He has recently put his accounting skills to use starting a business dealing in financial consultancy services. Mitchell says his greatest achievement is being a father and role model for his family. His vision is to see stronger communities, more ‘black business’ opportunities and to increase self sustainability in Indigenous communities.
Leaders for Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Casey Lee – Canberra, ACT
Casey is a Bundjalung man from Lismore, and currently lives in Canberra. Casey works as a public servant in the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations, while also studying law part time through Southern Cross University. His vision for the future is to see an Amicus Curiae (a friends of the high court) represented by an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person.
Les Coe – Canberra, ACT
Les currently lives in Canberra, and is a Wiradjuri man. Les says his greatest achievement in life is his two sons. Les works for the Canberra Fathers and Children’s Service, as a family support worker. His vision for the future is to see homelessness cease in Australia
Clinton Scott Knight – Canberra ACT
Clinton is a Wiradjuri man currently living in Canberra. He is the General Manager of Indigenous Training Pathways and says his greatest achievement in life is his family. Clintons vision for the future is to see a united community.
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Keith Leftwich– Canberra, ACT
Keith is originally from Innisfail, and currently works for the Department of Health and Ageing, focusing on Indigenous health. His vision for the future is to see Indigenous health standards in remote and rural Australia equal to mainstream health standards. Keith says his greatest achievement in life is to be involved in the Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health (OATSIH) to improve health and peoples lives in Indigenous communities throughout Australia.
Leroy Bolt – Canberra, ACT
Leroy is a Bunjalung man from Lismore, NSW. He is currently working as an Administrative Assistant working at the National Centre for Indigenous Studies at ANU. His hope for the future is to have an Indigenous Prime Minister.
Nick Hawley – Canberra, ACT
Nick is a Nuennone (S/E coast of Tasmania) man now living in the ACT. He is an active community member and his vision for the future is to see accelerated learning outcomes for Indigenous students in meeting benchmarks and national standards.
Joshua Kirk – Canberra, ACT
Joshua is from Dareton NSW and is currently working for the Office of Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC). His vision for the future is to see a shift in youth learning and education, and to have a job where he can affect change.
Tim Keen – Canberra, ACT
Tim is a Kamilaroi man from Tamworth, NSW. He works as an Administrative Officer for the Attorney Generals Department in Indigenous Legal Aid. Tim says his greatest achievement is being a father. His hope for the future is to make a change in peoples lives.