Premier's NAIDOC Award

The Hon. T.T. NGO (15:16): My question is to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Can the minister tell the council about this year's male recipient of the Premier's NAIDOC Award?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State) (15:16): I can. It was a privilege to be able to update the chamber on the winner of the Premier's NAIDOC Award female recipient in recent days, and I am pleased to speak of another Aboriginal leader who has been recognised for their significant contributions to Aboriginal South Australians. Uncle Michael O'Brien is the male recipient of this year's South Australian Premier's NAIDOC Award.

Uncle Michael, or Uncle Mikey, is a proud senior Kaurna and Narungga man who has been a tireless advocate and cultural ambassador for decades. He is widely recognised for his impact and life's work on fostering a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture not just within our state but across our nation. Uncle Michael's contributions extend beyond one particular achievement and he has dedicated himself to the revitalisation of the Kaurna language and ensuring that the wisdom of his ancestors is passed on to future generations.

His work is critical in maintaining the oldest living culture on the planet. For many years he has presented countless Welcomes to Country, smoking ceremonies, yarning circles and other important ceremonies and events. I am certain most people in this chamber have seen these activities at some stage in the recent past.

Uncle Michael's work in the education sphere is also worthy of recognition. He has mentored countless young people, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, inspiring them to be proud of their heritage and to embrace cultural diversity. Furthermore, he voluntarily sits on many organisations' reconciliation action plan groups and represents his people on many boards. He has been a very good footballer, playing for Port Adelaide. If anyone is after a Welcome to Country just ask him about it. I am sure he will tell you how good he was—he does for me all the time.

The Premier's NAIDOC Award is not just an accolade, it is a public acknowledgement and recognition of the extraordinary sacrifices and achievements of individuals who have enriched our community. Uncle Michael is a fitting recipient who is tirelessly, willingly and endlessly giving back to his community. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honour and thank him for his lasting contributions to the people of South Australia. I acknowledge the work that many members of his family have done in this regard as well.