NORTHERN TERRITORY
Northern Territory Community Achievement Awards
2024 Finalists
Awards Australia Foundation Local Legend Award
Amy Milford of Karama is dedicated to strengthening the community. Amy founded Darwin Family Life, where she has built a trusted online community hub serving over 17,000 families and 40+ local businesses since 2017. A solo mother of four, Amy has dedicated substantial volunteer hours to making Darwin Family Life a vital resource, sharing insights, event calendars, and helpful guides. Her platform offers advertising for local businesses, connects families relocating to the NT, and provides valuable resources for defence families and tourism. Amy’s recent achievements include the AusMumpreneur National awards and the Magnify Her 2024 Award Winner as Darwin's Most Influential Woman.
Blair McFarland of Alice Springs has championed social justice and public health for Indigenous communities in Central Australia. With a career spanning over four decades, Blair McFarland, Blair founded the Central Australian Youth Link-Up Service. He led the rollout of Low Aromatic Fuel, curtailing petrol sniffing by 95% and improving health outcomes across the region. His commitment extended to establishing youth programs in remote areas, creating safer, resilient communities and long-term health benefits. Blair’s approach integrates respect for Indigenous culture, aligning public health initiatives with traditional practices. An award-winning advocate, Blair continues to push for systemic changes that support First Nations justice, healthier communities, and environmental protection
Hajrah Kamran of Leanyer is championing mental health, youth empowerment, and inclusivity. As Youth Coordinator for the United Muslims of Northern Territory, Hajrah organizes essential youth programs, including mental health workshops and social integration activities, fostering personal development and support. Her role as Vice-Chair at the TWO TWO ONE Mental Health Charity allows her to address mental health stigma through counselling sessions, seminars, and awareness campaigns. Hajrah also serves as President of the Charles Darwin University Women’s Collective, creating platforms for women’s empowerment. She has secured funding for suicide prevention initiatives and established the Empower Her project for campus accessibility, all while pursuing three degrees
Kelly McGregor of Katherine exemplifies a tireless commitment to community wellbeing and child safety. Kelly is a foster parent and NT Friendship team member who has profoundly impacted the Northern Territory’s foster care community. Kelly provides a nurturing, stable home for vulnerable children, and her work extends into NT Friendship, where she mentors new foster families and advocates for child protection policies. Her selfless contributions ensure families have essential resources and emotional support, reducing placement breakdowns and creating resilient, long-term foster arrangements. Despite the emotional demands of fostering, she supports and continually enhances the community’s care network, all while completing her social work degree
Shahn Fitisemanu of Kilgariff has made a significant impact on food security and community inclusion in Alice Springs. Shahn is the driving force behind Treat Me Good, where they dedicate 10% of catering profits to feeding families in need and organise an annual Christmas lunch open to the community. Their initiatives also offer job opportunities and mentoring, helping individuals gain skills in hospitality and customer service. Treat Me Good fosters a supportive ecosystem, emphasising sustainability and food preservation to alleviate hunger and poverty. Despite facing challenges and initial financial struggles, Shahn’s dedication has grown Treat Me Good into a sustainable enterprise with a lasting impact
Awards Australia Community Group Award
Darwin Men's Shed of Casuarina is combating social isolation and boosting self-esteem. Since 2011, they have been a vital support hub for men in the Darwin community, offering a safe and welcoming space for meaningful projects, companionship, and personal development. Darwin Men’s Shed provides diverse activities, including woodworking, metalwork, and health programs. Members have contributed over $1.2 million in volunteer hours, supporting initiatives like Food Bank, Mates 4 Mates, and Men’s Health Week. They partner with local organizations to enhance skills in trades, gardening, and digital literacy. Despite relocation challenges, they continue to offer programs promoting mental health, reduce healthcare barriers, and create community connections
Girl Guides NT Tennant Creek exemplifies the true spirit of community, inclusion, and empowerment. Through their tireless volunteer efforts, they’ve created a welcoming environment for girls and young women with social and physical disabilities, demonstrating exceptional commitment to fostering inclusion. Their innovative programs have helped girls with varying abilities—such as those on the autism spectrum or living with cerebral palsy—achieve remarkable milestones, including attending a national Jamboree and earning the prestigious BP Award. By adapting activities and offering individualized support, they’ve set new standards for accessibility and inclusion, becoming a beacon of hope and advocacy for all.
Humpty Doo Community Garden, is enriching the community with educational and social opportunities. It is a flourishing community space where 42 members come to grow their own vegetables, help maintain the communal garden and reap the benefits. The garden was revitalised in 2022 and has since doubled in size with support from 10 grants and two sponsorships. It has a 13-tree orchard, expanded member plots, and a communal gazebo. It’s a hub for community events, gardening workshops, and local group meet-ups, benefiting residents, from children to octogenarians. Annual open days and workshops draw in over 200 visitors, fostering awareness of sustainable gardening and healthy living
Riding for the Disabled Association Top End fosters well-being, resilience, and social connections. The Association provides transformative equestrian experiences for people of all abilities in Darwin. With a dedicated team of eight trained horses, accredited coaches, and 80 volunteers, they deliver therapeutic sessions to around 30 regular riders and 75 school-based participants each year. Backed by government grants, local sponsorships, and extensive volunteer support, they manage 10 acres, including a full-size, undercover riding arena. The Association not only enhances riders' physical and emotional capabilities but also supports volunteers’ personal growth and learning. In 2024 alone, they delivered 1,800 hours of riding experiences and 4,600 volunteer hours
Soldier On actively supports veterans and their families. Soldier On facilitates effective transitions from military to civilian life through a diverse range of services. Their initiatives include targeted transition seminars, employment workshops, and community events like the "March On the Esplanade," which foster health and camaraderie among participants. With over 300 veterans engaged in programs, the organisation promotes social cohesion through regular meetups and events. A dedicated team of professionals, including mental health specialists and community engagement officers, collaborates with local businesses and government bodies to enhance service delivery. Their holistic approach contributes significantly to the economic and social prosperity of the Northern Territory
Awards Australia Small Business Award
Katherine Helicopters is fostering local economic growth while maintaining high service standards. Katherine Helicopters is a local family-owned helicopter tour operator. Operating two Bell Helicopters, they offer scenic tours, aerial spraying, mustering, and medical evacuations. Committed to community engagement, they support local events through donations and sponsorships, contributing to the Katherine town life. Their efforts earned them a TripAdvisor award, placing them in the top 10% of tours worldwide, reflecting their dedication. Katherine Helicopters promotes sustainable tourism and education about the local environment, ensuring their guests leave with a greater understanding of the region. They’ve collaborated with Katherine Museum to enhance visitor experiences
Pawsitive K9 Behaviour has been serving Darwin and surrounding areas for nearly a decade, with a strong commitment to canine welfare and community service.
Founded in 2015, the organisation offers modern, ethical dog training and educational services, extending its reach globally through online programs. Led by accredited trainer Hannah, Pawsitive K9 Behaviour employs compassionate, reward-based methods that build trust and understanding between dogs and their caregivers. The organisation has positively impacted the lives of thousands of dogs and their caregivers by providing tailored training solutions and community workshops. They have collaborated with local organizations, such as GRANT, Darwin City Council and RSPCA, which included a live-stream fundraiser during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Treat Me Good Cafe of Kilgariff is dedicated to creating a food welfare system that preserves traditional food practices while nurturing community connections. Treat Me Good is a community-focused business in Mparntwe, Alice Springs. It has developed key initiatives over five years to combat hunger and promote sustainability. They donate 10% of catering profits to support families facing hardship and host an inclusive annual Community Christmas Lunch. Through various support services, they have assisted individuals during challenging life events. They recently secured a grant to employ Aboriginal job seekers. Their dedication to transparency and resilience inspires social responsibility and significantly improve the quality of life in the community
Northern Distilling of Darwin is focused on community and growth. Established by David and Kellie Robinson, Northern Distilling is a groundbreaking nano distillery dedicated to producing high-quality spirits. With extensive backgrounds in hospitality and a passion for local ingredients, the Robinsons have refined their offerings, which include the award-winning Troppo Yuzu Gin and Ancient Lands Kakadu Plum Gin. Since its inception in 2020, the distillery has achieved significant milestones, such as obtaining a manufacturer’s license and securing trademarks. They were named Best in Class at the 2024 Tasting Australia Spirits Awards. They are committed to enhancing the Northern Territory's reputation in the spirits industry
Northern Territory Veterinary Services of Katherine, or NTVS, is committed to elevating animal healthcare standards while fostering economic development in the region. NTVS is a premier veterinary provider in Alice Springs and Katherine, catering to diverse animal needs with comprehensive services such as advanced surgical procedures, preventative health care, and teleconsultations. NTVS stands out for its collaborations with charities and outreach to remote communities, improving animal health across over 50 communities in the Northern Territory. The establishment of Alice Vet Centre and expansion of services have led to significant growth and increased job opportunities. NTVS has also introduced advanced reproductive and orthopaedic services, enhancing local veterinary practices
NT Government Road Safety Award
Alawa Primary School is committed to creating a safer environment for children. The School has made impactful strides in road safety education for preschoolers through a variety of initiatives supported by a $5,000 grant from the Towards Zero Road Safety Grants program. The funding enabled the School to acquire new bikes, trikes, and educational resources, fostering hands-on learning. Engaging activities, such as the Bike-a-thon and visits from road safety mascots like Hector the Road Safety Cat, encourage young learners and their families to adopt safe practices. Through newsletters and community events, Alawa Primary School is contributing to long-term road safety habits
Barunga Festival is dedicated to promoting road safety among Indigenous populations. Barunga Festival is a culturally significant annual event in the remote community of Barunga, drawing over 5,000 attendees. In 2023, the festival introduced the “Always wear your seatbelt” Colour Run, sponsored by MACC, to promote road safety among Indigenous populations. This initiative creatively leveraged the festival's festive atmosphere to communicate the importance of seatbelt use, targeting children, youth, and families. Participants embraced the message, often seen wearing event T-shirts in their communities, reinforcing the mantra to “always wear your seatbelt.” The Colour Run effectively combined cultural activities with essential safety education
Beat the Heat NT of Winnellie is creating a culture of responsibility and safety among young drivers. Beat the Heat NT is a pioneering road safety initiative aimed at curbing illegal street racing among youth in Darwin. By offering a safe, legal racing platform at the Hidden Valley Drag Strip, the program engages young drivers and fosters positive interactions with law enforcement. Monthly events serve as educational platforms, emphasising safe driving habits and consequences of reckless behaviour. The initiative has significantly reduced illegal racing incidents while transforming perceptions of police from enforcers to community partners. They are supported by local businesses and a growing number of participants
Young Professionals Rotaract Northern Territory - Project JumpStart is addressing transportation barriers to empower participants. The initiative assists young Territorians aged 16-25 in gaining driver’s licenses. Funded by the NT Department of Health, they offer workshops on safe driving and the effects of alcohol and drugs, as well as mentorship and financial support for enrollment in the DriveSafe NT program. With a team of five international students leading the project, 52 participants have joined so far, with 14 achieving Learners Licences and one a Provisional Licence. Supported by local organisations and groups, Project JumpStart promotes road safety awareness, fosters independence, and equips participants with essential driving knowledge and experience
Palmerston GP Super Clinic Health and Wellbeing Award
Amber NT of Tiwi ensures no family faces the journey of loss alone. Established in 1985 by two mothers who experienced the loss of a child, Amber NT provides a safe, compassionate space for families in the Northern Territory grieving child loss. Offering individualised counselling, group support like "Coffee and Chat" sessions, and community events such as "Walk to Remember," Amber NT creates opportunities for healing, mindfulness, and emotional connection. The organisation’s outreach extends to training first responders and educating local communities. With services spanning grief support, pregnancy after loss, and resources for foster families, Amber NT is a lifeline in the Territory’s mental health landscape
Football Without Borders is dedicated to promoting health and wellness through community sporting initiatives that transcend cultural boundaries. By leveraging soccer as a universal language, they unite individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating a welcoming environment that fosters inclusivity and social engagement. Through various programs and tournaments, Football Without Borders encourages physical activity, teamwork, and a sense of belonging among participants. The organization emphasizes the importance of mental and emotional well-being, providing a supportive network for newcomers and those facing challenges. By connecting community members through sport, they not only enhances physical health but also cultivates lasting friendships and a vibrant, cohesive community
Gokula Chandran of Karama is making a profound impact on those often overlooked in mainstream health and social services. Dr Gokula is a Doctor of Public Health who has spent over a decade supporting Darwin’s homeless Indigenous community, known as the "long grass" group. Through self-funded outreach, he provides essential care and companionship, often sleeping near their camps and helping to reduce health risks by monitoring their wellbeing daily. Known as a "barefoot doctor," he ensures that families are informed about their loved ones’ welfare and supports those seeking recovery. Alongside his work with this vulnerable group, Dr Gokula is deeply involved in his Tamil community
Kelly McGregor of Katherine is dedicated to strengthening the Northern Territory’s foster care network. Kelly is both a dedicated foster parent and an active team member at NT Friendship. Through her role, Kelly advocates for the wellbeing and safety of vulnerable children, providing a stable, nurturing environment. She also volunteers as a mentor for new foster families, offering invaluable guidance that has led to stronger, long-term placements. Her commitment is further highlighted by her achievement of completing a social work degree while actively supporting the foster community. Kelly’s unwavering dedication to child safety and family support has improved the lives of countless children.
Rotary Club of Litchfield Palmerston plays a vital role in suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Since 2018, they’ve led impactful initiatives, including the "Don't Bottle it Up" campaign, distributing materials to encourage men in the trade industry to seek support. Their community information stands provide crucial contact details for 24/7 assistance, even reaching rural areas. The Club also installed Buddy Benches across 25 schools, fostering anti-bullying awareness and providing children with a safe space for connection. The Club has trained members in suicide prevention, positioning them as trusted advocates who are strengthening mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and uniting the community in support
Palmerston GP Super Clinic Improving Health through Connection to Country / Culture Award
Bush Fit Mob of Groote Eylandt is boosting community pride, cohesion, and cultural identity. Bush Fit Mob serves the Groote Eylandt archipelago, engaging Anindilyakwa youth in sports, health, and cultural programs that build physical, mental, and cultural strength. Their four-pillar approach encompasses sports and recreation, family support services, nutrition, and youth diversion, focusing on preserving cultural heritage. They conduct over 300 activities annually, from on-country skill sessions to cooking competitions. They have seen decline in youth anti-social behaviours and rise in youth engagement and health outcomes. With ongoing staff training in mental health, nutrition, and coaching, Bush Fit Mob is enhancing resilience and leadership within the community
Mayala-Bol of Rapid Creek is building individual strength and enhancing community cohesion. Mayala-Bol is a social enterprise led by Maningrida women Menah McKenzie and Noni Eather, supports the mental and emotional wellbeing of First Nations women and youth through culturally safe workshops and healing circles. Combining traditional cultural practices with modern wellness techniques, they have facilitated over 100 healing circles, reaching nearly 1,000 participants. These sessions teach self-care, mindfulness, and resilience while reinforcing cultural identity. Through The Cove, their community hub in Darwin, Mayála-Bol offers a dedicated space for workshops, wellness sessions, and creative activities, benefiting the broader community and fostering cross-cultural understanding
Remote Laundries Project is providing sustainable, culturally sensitive community support. Established by the Aboriginal Investment Group in 2019, the Remote Laundries Project provides vital laundry services in remote Indigenous communities, tackling hygiene-related diseases such as scabies and rheumatic heart disease. Operating in locations like Barunga and Gunbalanya, it has completed over 50,000 cycles, significantly reducing infection rates and improving health outcomes. The project also generates local employment, creating 71 roles. Culturally aligned training and employment build capacity, with staff developing essential skills in health-focused laundry operations and cultural engagement. The project serves as a model for enhancing both health and economic independence
Stronger Together Support Service is breaking down barriers to ensure people with disabilities can live fulfilling, culturally connected lives. Stronger Together is an Aboriginal-owned organisation led by Rodney Fejo, dedicated to providing culturally safe support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disabilities. With a team rooted in diverse Indigenous cultures, their personalised programs include day trips, recreational activities, and respite care that honour Country and Culture, creating a nurturing environment. Rodney’s vision focuses on individual needs, recognising the importance of family, land, and cultural connections in the healing process. Through these initiatives, Stronger Together is improving the quality of life for participants
Subash Heraganahally of Darwin is transforming Indigenous health outcomes. Professor Heraganahally is a Respiratory and Sleep Specialist at Royal Darwin Hospital and an academic at Flinders University. He has developed culturally sensitive respiratory care tailored to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, conducted outreach services in remote areas, and authored over 60 research papers highlighting lung health in Indigenous populations. His initiatives correct misdiagnoses, establish Indigenous-specific health assessments, and provide accessible, culturally resonant education on respiratory disease management. By collaborating with community health workers and Elders, he ensures care aligns with Indigenous lifestyles and values. His commitment significantly improves health access and patient empowerment.
Zip Print Sports in the Community Award
Football Without Borders was founded in 2014 by Pat Simonis and is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and well-being through community sporting initiatives. Football Without Borders unites individuals from diverse backgrounds, using soccer as a powerful vehicle for community integration and social engagement, as well as providing resources to support newcomers and those facing challenges. The committee has partnered with organizations to bring the Refugee World Cup to its 10th year, enhancing their ability to engage and celebrate the sport. As Football Withour Borders marks this significant milestone, it continues to inspire and uplift its community, showcasing the transformative power of sport in connecting people both on and off the field.
Jabiru Australian Rules Football Club Incorporated embodies a strong sense of belonging and community pride. Established in 1982, the Club has a proud history in the Northern Territory Football League, with a unique commitment to travel and competition despite its remote location. In 2022, the club expanded to include a women's team, boosting membership, volunteer engagement, and community spirit. This initiative has transformed the club's culture, fostering a family-oriented environment that supports both teams. The Jabiru Bombers are recognised for their resilience and community involvement, including an Acknowledgement of Country at events. Recent funding has allowed for the construction of spectator grandstands and improved training facilities
Royal Existence Dance Academy of Coconut Grove focuses on inclusivity and providing a family-friendly atmosphere. Established in 2018, Royal Existence offers diverse dance classes for ages 18 months to 18 years, including ballet, hip hop, and acrobatics. They have served over 1,500 students. Engaging in community partnerships, the academy collaborates with local schools to integrate dance into their curriculum. Their initiatives, such as the Ready Set Dance Water Safety Show, promote health and safety. Royal Existence has received awards for best-organised and most supportive studio, showcasing a commitment to excellence and community impact. Their founder, Samantha Price, continues to drive the academy’s growth and positive influence
The Katherine Motorsports Club is dedicated to fostering camaraderie and social responsibility. A volunteer run and not for profit organisation, the Club offers dirt track racing in Katherine, providing a competitive yet inclusive environment for racers of all ages and skill levels. They organise various racing classes and host 5 to 6 events annually, including impactful fundraisers like "Blue Night" for Dolly's Dream and "Pink Night" for breast cancer awareness through the McGrath Foundation, raising thousands of dollars. Their plans for a youth engagement program aim to offer a constructive outlet through motorsports. The club has an average of 500 spectators at each race meet, strengthening local connections
Waratah Football Club of Darwin is creating meaningful connections within the community for years to come. Boasting a rich 108-year history, the Club provides inclusive football opportunities for all ages. Their partnership with the Belyuen Community has significantly impacted the region, supporting over 100 players through the Indigenous Development Program in the 2023-2024 season, including 67 from Belyuen. The Club promotes community engagement through coaching, training, and volunteer roles, fostering a pathway from junior to senior football. Notable achievements include reducing social issues like domestic violence. The Club actively contributes to the cultural and social fabric of Belyuen, aiming for sustainable growth and increased participation