Naidoc awards to local people

Several Peninsula residents have won Naidoc Week Community Awards at a special awards ceremony organised by Gosford Council and Wyong Shire Council on July 9.

Mr Gerard McMinn and Ms Anita Selwyn each received a Community Service and Humanities Award while the Darkinjung Language Group with several members from the Peninsula took out the award for Achievement in Art and Culture.

The Central Coast Aboriginal Education Pathways Group led by Woy Woy resident Ms Denise Markham won the Outstanding Service Organisation award at the ceremony and the Central Coast Reconciliation Group consisting of several Peninsula members achieved a Special Recognition award.

Gosford mayor Cr Chris Holstein was also among 21 winners to be awarded with a Darkinjung Medal.

The awards acknowledge the work and talent of the Central Coast's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and mark the conclusion of a week of celebrations for NAIDOC Week.

Cr Holstein said he was surprised to be one of this year's recipients.

"I am so proud to be recognised by the local Aboriginal community and receive this Darkinjung Medal," Cr Holstein said.

"I am honoured to have received this prestigious award alongside a well respected local elder.

"I'm proud to be involved in such a great night and see a number of community members, such as Anita Selwyn, get recognised for their contribution to our community.

"Anita volunteers her time to run a successful dance group on the Peninsula and instructs more than 16 children aged between two and 11 years.

"She won the Award for Community Services and Humanities and it was well deserved.

"Not only does she volunteer her time for the dance troupe, Anita also shares her cultural knowledge with the local schools and community."

Press release, 12 Jul 2010 Gosford Council Media