WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Western Australian Community Achievement Awards

2023 Winners

 

APM Sustainable Disability Employment Award

 

 Shire of Manjimup - Property Care Team exemplifies a community's commitment to inclusivity and support. This team of five individuals with disabilities carries out outdoor property maintenance, offering them meaningful employment close to home. The Shire's robust backing, complete with dedicated equipment and training opportunities, ensures their success and integration into the broader Shire team. Beyond jobs, this initiative fosters a sense of pride, accomplishment, and responsibility within the community. The Property Care Team's quality workmanship is highly sought after, solidifying their impact. By championing inclusivity, the Shire paves the way for a more diverse and equitable workplace, open to all job applicants in the Manjimup community.

 

Awards Australia Charitable Foundation Mental Health and Wellbeing Award

Desert Blue Connect of Geraldton is promoting women and children's well-being. Their comprehensive services cover sexual assault counselling, family violence support, women's health, and more. Responding to community needs, they launched the Women's Wellness Centre, a haven for holistic healthcare. Challenges of soaring demand and complex client needs were met by expanding clinical staff and streamlining internal referrals. They're a trauma-informed service, addressing distressing situations with care. Desert Blue Connect's impact extends beyond clinical walls, fostering social connections and promoting mental well-being through support groups and community engagement. In the heart of the Midwest, they empower their community with accessible and inclusive healthcare, leaving a legacy.

 

Awards Australia Local Legend Award

 Rach Mac of Perth transformed from a real estate agent to a fearless survivor and advocate against domestic violence. Her creation of the Broken Crayon’s Still Colour Foundation has not only saved lives but empowered survivors. Rach takes enormous risks, personally conducting emergency relocations and providing critical support to victims. Her impact extends to legal advocacy, court support, Christmas provisions, and a transition to safer homes. Despite receiving no government funding, she raises her funds, securing an emergency relocation vehicle and establishing two safe havens for mothers and children. Rach's dedication has led to awards and international recognition, promising lasting change in the fight against domestic violence.

 

Curtin University, School of Education Teaching Excellence Award

 

Deanne Hedland of Cloverdale shows unwavering commitment to her students. As the driving force behind the SILO cafe, she provides a real-world work environment, fostering graduates passionate about hospitality. Dee's innovation is evident in the Djinda Ngardak culinary program, empowering First Nations youth and strengthening their connection to culture and food. She tirelessly eliminates barriers, ensuring individualised learning and fostering positive engagement in a regional setting. Dee's community partnerships, such as with Northam Share and Care, open doors for students, promoting holistic well-being. Her dedication extends to her self-development and mentorship of preservice teachers, making her a beacon of excellence in education.

 

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Economic Development Award

Bullara Station Stay of Exmouth is a family-run cattle station. Their commitment to a 'Buy Local' policy resulted in 95% of purchases and 80% of expenses staying within the region, contributing $1.2 million in the last year. Expanding their offerings, they upcycled a 1920s woolshed into a thriving café, serving over 32,000 scones and locally sourced delights. With an increase in staff from 11 to 70, including locals, they generated $830,000 in wages annually. Their unique glamping experience is a hit, and hosting events like the Solar Eclipse has brought in visitors and revenue. Bullara Station Stay embodies the spirit of regional growth and community support.

 

Insurance Commission of Western Australia Regional Safety Award 

 

Red Dirt Driving Academy (RDDA) / Ngarliyarndu Bindirri Aboriginal Corporation of Roebourne is an outstanding social innovation program enhancing road safety in regional areas. Launched in 2010, RDDA has made significant strides in reducing traffic offenses, drink driving, and the over-representation of Aboriginal individuals in the justice system due to traffic-related issues. RDDA's holistic approach addresses barriers faced by Aboriginal people in obtaining their driver's licenses. Cultural sensitivity, individualised support, and comprehensive services encompass license checks, theory testing, driving lessons, and driver education workshops. The outcomes achieved in 2022 including the issuance of licenses, supporting employment opportunities and over 1600 driving lessons underscore RDDA's remarkable success and positive community impact.

 

Konica Minolta Customer Service Award

 The Good Egg Cafe Pty Ltd of Busselton is a heartfelt tribute to its cherished husband who died of brain cancer. The Good Egg Cafe is a testament to the power of kindness and community. Beyond being a culinary delight, it donates 5% of its profits to vital brain cancer research, having contributed over $50,000 to date. Exceptional service is at its core, seamlessly guiding patrons on a welcoming journey. The cafe's ingenuity shines through private offices, co-working spaces, and high-tech facilities, fostering a sense of belonging. Community engagement thrives as the cafe supports local charities, offers a meeting space to groups, and donates to front-line workers during crises.

 

Rinehart Development of Northern Regional WA Award

 Impact Digi of Karratha stands tall as a 100% Aboriginal-owned marketing powerhouse, spearheaded by founder Tamara BinAmat since 2013. Celebrating a decade of visionary work, Impact Digi's star has never shone brighter. Over the past year, they've doubled their revenue, tripled their workforce, and achieved a remarkable 106% increase in net profit. Offering a comprehensive range of design, communications, and marketing services, they serve businesses of all sizes, government entities, and tier 1 mining companies. Their dedication to the Northern Regional WA community, active involvement, and commitment to uplifting local businesses shine brightly. Impact Digi's story is one of resilience, excellence, and unwavering impact.

 

Woolworths Community Group of the Year Award

 Tom Price Emergency Services Cadet Corps is a thriving program since 2000, showcasing hope and leadership for over 1500 young individuals aged 11-18. Beyond boosting school attendance, this program has nurtured 21 cadets into roles within volunteer emergency services like SES, St John Ambulance, Fire and Rescue, and the Bush Fire Brigade. Today, with 101 active cadets, their community impact is profound. They've responded to emergencies, helped during natural disasters, and provided over 30,000 hours of community service. Initiatives like road safety signs, accessible defibrillators, and educational programs showcase their dedication to community safety. Overcoming barriers and challenges, they continue to shine as community leaders.