Humble legends shine bright in 2023 South West NAIDOC Awards at Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre

A man who helped foster 120 Aboriginal children, a coach who stood up for his values and a rising sports star have all been honoured for their achievements within the community. They were among the nine community leaders recognised at the 2023 South West NAIDOC Awards, held at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre on Saturday. Collie Elder Norman Hayward took out the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award for his 40 years working for Westrail as its first Aboriginal train driver and fostering 120 Aboriginal children with his late wife Shirley. Some of his other achievements include working with Catholic Education WA to develop Aboriginal scholarships and lobbying to ensure Centrelink remained open in Collie. In presenting the award, Alcoa’s Tom Busher described Mr Hayward as an outstanding elder who always seeks to help others with cultural decisions and conversations. “A devoted family man, husband and elder, he’s inspired many nephews and nieces, his grandchildren and others to be respectful, hardworking, and be always kind,” he said. Mr Hayward said he has been able to achieve some “very good” outcomes. “Over the years, Collie has been good to us - we’ve met a lot of people,” he said. “It’s been a good journey, but I have got a few more years to go yet.” The Community Person of the Year award went to Harvey elder Lesley Ugle for her work with the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation and other community organisations, environmental projects and assisting those who need support. The award was accepted by Sharon Cook on her behalf. A husband-wife duo took out the Male and Female Elder Awards, with Lorraine Bennell and Richard Bennell honoured for 20 years of service to Didji Didji Aboriginal School. For more than 20 years, Mr and Ms Bennell were involved with running the bus service to Djidi Djidi Aboriginal School, acting as role models for students and helping teach them life skills. Mr Bennell also worked for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission and served as chairman of Community Development Employment Projects, while Ms Bennell has used her Bachelor of Indigenous Studies degree in work in the Pilbara and Goldfields regions. Master of ceremonies Max Jetta Jr received the sportsperson award for his work within the South West Football League and in recognition of his recent stands against racism, while rising sports star Basil Hart took out the Youth Award. Lynette Narkle spoke of her wish to continue working with future storytellers while accepting the Creative Talent accolade, with Kerry Collard speaking about the connection between culture and the environment after receiving the Caring for Country and Culture Award. Erica Dimer struggled to hold back tears after being given the Innovation Award for celebrating her culture by creating signs within Big W Bunbury in Noongar language, while Sharon Cook admitted it was a surprise after she won the Education Award winner for her work as a Noongar language specialist and a cultural educator. Dennis Jetta and Donnell Wallam were both acknowledged for their National NAIDOC Awards nominations.