WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Western Australian Community Achievement Awards
2025 Finalists
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Economic Development Award
Australian Natural Biotechnology of Perth combines commercial success with meaningful community and environmental impact. ANB is leads in premium honey production and export, renowned for its innovation, sustainability, and community partnerships. Specialising in high-activity Jarrah honey, ANB has doubled exports to China and expanded into new international markets, earning the prestigious ChaFTA 10th Anniversary Contribution Award. Its award-winning Honeymoon Frame and bee venom extraction technology have transformed industry practices while supporting cancer research and bee conservation. ANB generates local employment through collaborations with farmers, beekeepers, packaging providers, and marketing firms. Its partnership with the Noongar Land Enterprise Group empowers Indigenous beekeepers with training and equipment.
Make It Happen HQ advocates for self-determination for First Nations people. Make It Happen is a First Nations and female-led innovation and gaming hub that empowers Indigenous entrepreneurs across regional and remote Australia through culturally intelligent programs, mentoring, and practical tools. It has supported over 50 First Nations participants to launch more than 20 businesses, generate 60+ new income streams, and secure over $250,000 in funding. Their ventures span fashion, food services, digital design, cultural tourism, and e-commerce, with many creating local jobs and reinvesting into community. Flagship programs such as EQUALIZER and Peek Performance provide tailored coaching, digital upskilling, and long-term growth pathways.
Nexus Airlines, proudly WA owned and operated, has improved liveability and connectivity across the State. Nexus operates multiple routes, including the Inter-Regional Flight Network, which links Geraldton, Karratha, Port Hedland, and Broome directly, reducing costs, saving time, and unlocking opportunities. With 70% of its workforce based regionally, Nexus fosters careers in aviation, from cabin crew to engineering. Its unique NexusGO program allows Nexus to provide sponsorship support directly to community groups, causes, and events. In 2024, Nexus was awarded Australian Aviation’s ‘Domestic Airline of the Year’ thanks to its industry leading 95% on-time performance.
Pilbara Ecological, based in Port Hedland and Karratha, provides biological surveys, native seed supply, capacity building training and weed management services. Since launching, they have grown from two to ten employees, with a strong focus on employing and training locals, engaging schools, and building Indigenous capacity in the native seed economy. Significant investment in facilities, machinery, and a new seed processing and storage hub has boosted local capability to support mining rehabilitation and ecological restoration. The business has achieved 84% revenue growth in the past year, expanded community engagement, and earned multiple state and regional awards.
Quairading Farmers Co-operative of Quairading is promoting economic resilience and vibrancy. Quairading Farmers Co-operative is a community-owned, not-for-profit supermarket. As the town’s only full-service grocery store, it provides essential goods. Their commitment to the Price Promise Program enables them to meet the every day prices of larger supermarkets on over 1000 items thus seeking to create greater affordability for their community. The Co-op directly employs approximately twenty locals, creates indirect jobs through local service providers, and partners with regional suppliers to keep money circulating within the community. Profits are reinvested into infrastructure upgrades, main street revitalisation, and community support initiatives, helping attract new businesses and enhancing civic pride. They continue to overcome regional challenges like high freight costs and a limited customer base.
Rinehart Development of Northern Regional WA Award
Kununurra Visitor Centre (KVC), established in 1972, is the heart of East Kimberley tourism and a vital gateway to the Kimberley and Top End. With up to 14 dedicated staff, KVC delivers expert travel planning, tour and accommodation bookings, and year-round visitor support. Representing more than 160 operators, it drives economic growth by encouraging extended stays, promoting local businesses, and supporting regional employment. Entirely self-funded through memberships, commissions, and merchandise sales, every dollar is reinvested into the community and industry. Recognised for outstanding customer service, KVC continues to strengthen connections and showcase the very best of northern Australia.
Mallard Contracting Pty Ltd of Carnarvon is promoting compassion, cultural respect, and excellence in infrastructure. Led by a proud Wadjarri-Nanda man Robby Mallard, Mallard Contracting, a civil construction company is building wastewater plants, training centres, and accommodation facilities whilst creating meaningful employment and generational change for Aboriginal. Its Inclusion and Diversity Program provides entry-level opportunities, culturally responsive onboarding, and one-on-one mentoring. Mallard partners with Aboriginal Councils, Workskil Australia, and Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation to deliver holistic support while also embedding Indigenous-owned businesses across its supply chain. Recognised with national and industry awards, Mallard Contracting is driving both commercial success and profound social impact for regional communities.
Ngaarda Media of Roebourne is connecting communities and championing Indigenous voices. Founded in 2004 by the Yindjibarndi community, Ngaarda Media is the Pilbara’s only Aboriginal-owned broadcaster and a vital cultural voice for over 30 language groups. They broadcast 24/7 across 500,000 sq km and to 60,000+ listeners, preserving language, sharing stories, and ensuring First Nations issues are heard locally, statewide, and nationally. Beyond radio, Ngaarda Media provides professional videography, photography, recording, and social media services, while also offering training for emerging First Nations professionals. Their recent achievements include launching a high-tech Outside Broadcast truck, building a professional sound studio, and producing content for various outlets.
Pilbara Kimberley University Centres (PKUC) is transforming access to higher education and building the future workforce of remote Western Australia. Since 2020, this not-for-profit has supported over 2,000 students to study locally across hubs in Karratha, Port Hedland, Onslow, Tom Price, Broome, and Kununurra—without leaving family, community, or culture. Partnering with five universities and local industry, PKUC delivers tailored programs in nursing, education, engineering, and Aboriginal leadership. Through mentoring, scholarships, and community-led initiatives, PKUC is developing skilled professionals and retaining them in the North West.
Pilbara Solar of Wedgefield is a 50% Indigenous-owned renewable energy project developer and advisory firm, dedicated to creating sustainable, community-owned energy projects. The company specialises in feasibility, land tenure, approvals, and project structuring that ensures meaningful First Nations ownership and long-term community benefits. Its flagship Junja Solar Farm was awarded $3 million from the WA Clean Energy Future Fund and is set to deliver clean energy while providing the Jinparinya community with a 5% equity share. With strong cultural knowledge and technical expertise, the team works with Aboriginal corporations to support regional jobs and intergenerational prosperity.
Konica Minolta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Community Achievement Award
Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services Ltd (KAMS) is a member-based, regional Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service. Guided by its vision that all Kimberley Aboriginal people are strong, healthy and connected, KAMS delivers comprehensive holistic health and wellbeing and acute care outcomes in partnership with its nine Member Services, Aboriginal-led health research, workforce training and development and corporate support services. Its work centres on Kimberley Aboriginal cultures and knowledge to strengthen health and wellbeing outcomes. KAMS provides advocacy and leadership at the regional, State and National levels. KAMS operates a subsidy company, Kimberley Renal Services, delivering dialysis, prevention and support services.
Make It Happen HQ of Broome is dedicated to empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and changemakers. Make It Happen HQ is a First Nations and female-led innovation, gaming hub, and think tank. They provide culturally intelligent training, mentoring, and business development support tailored to regional and remote communities. Since launch, they have supported over 50 First Nations entrepreneurs, leading to more than 20 Indigenous-led businesses, increased cultural pride, and greater economic participation. Their programs like EQUALIZER, Geek Off The Street, and Club 81 engage youth, women, and remote participants, fostering leadership and community connection. Their initiatives, including the flagship Reclaim The Narrative series, challenge stereotypes and celebrate Indigenous excellence.
Mallard Contracting based in Osborne Park, is a 100% Aboriginal-owned civil construction company led by Robby Mallard, a proud Wadjarri-Nanda man. Delivering projects across mining, housing, and infrastructure, the company creates meaningful employment and training for Aboriginal people. Through its Inclusion and Diversity Program, Mallard offers culturally responsive onboarding, mentoring, and flexible rosters that honour family and cultural obligations. Strategic partnerships with Workskil Australia and Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation support second-chance pathways. With a “no one is turned away” ethos, Mallard Contracting is redefining inclusion and setting a new benchmark for socially responsible business.
Pilbara Community Legal Service of Karratha (PCLS) is empowering individuals and strengthening communities with compassion and respect. PCLS is a not-for-profit that’s providing integrated, trauma-informed legal and social support across one of Australia’s most remote regions. Operating from four regional offices and with an extensive outreach, PCLS assists communities with family and domestic violence response, tenancy and housing advocacy, financial counselling, migrant settlement, and redress. More than 80% of its clients are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It's been recognised for its innovation and partnerships with Traditional Owner groups, Native Title bodies, and local organisations. PCLS delivers holistic, wraparound care by helping restore justice, safety, and housing stability.
Southern Aboriginal Corporation of Albany has a mission to restore culture, dignity, and self-determination. Founded in 1983, SAC provides support to Aboriginal communities across Noongar Country. Guided by its Cultural Trauma Integrated Healing Approach, SAC delivers housing, family violence prevention, legal advocacy, employment pathways, counselling, and cultural programs. For over four decades, it has supported over 4,250 women and children through crises, housed more than 400 people, and created a $7.3M Cultural and Tourism Centre. SAC has also secured over $33M in funding in the last three years, translating into $160M of long-term community impact. Beyond service delivery, SAC ensuring Aboriginal voices drive systemic reform.
Insurance Commission of WA Regional Safety Award
Amy Scott of Kalamunda is creating lasting emotional impact and inspiring safer driving choices. Amy is a lived experience road safety presenter with the Paraplegic Benefit Fund, driven by the tragic loss of her seven-year-old son Nate in a preventable crash in regional Western Australia in 2020. Through powerful presentations in schools, workplaces, detention centres, and hospitals, she shares Nate’s story to highlight the dangers of fatigue, distraction, and complacency on regional roads. Amy’s advocacy extends to media and social media engagement to amplify her message. With formal program evaluations, community feedback, and strong demand for her presentations, Amy is saving lives and shifting attitudes.
Clontarf Foundation of Bentley advocates for long-term change by closing the licensing gap. Clontarf Foundation introduced its L-2-P Gap program, delivered in partnership with the Road Safety Commission. The program empowers young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men across 33 Clontarf Academies in Western Australia. By addressing licensing inequality, the program provides culturally appropriate road safety education, professional driving lessons, and mentoring to help students obtain Learner’s Permits and Driver’s Licences. The initiative builds confidence, supports school retention, and enhances opportunities for further study and employment. With its holistic, peer-based approach, they’ve attained a 229% increase in driver licence attainment, improved safety behaviours, and stronger engagement.
Heather Jones of Wonthella is advocating for reducing crash risk. Heather founded Pilbara Heavy Haulage Girls Group (PHHGG), where she has trained more than 350 drivers—many women and people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Her initiative combines classroom learning with hands-on heavy vehicle experience to equip learners with practical skills, mentoring, and confidence to navigate regional roads safely. Heather’s model has transformed driver standards, boosted employment outcomes, and challenged gender stereotypes. Heather has over 30 years’ industry experience as a respected transport leader. In 2025, she received the CME Women in Resources Award. She also influences national road safety policy and advocates for infrastructure improvements.
The SOCK (Save Our Country Kids) Week initiative, emerged from the tragic loss of five young lives to road crashes in 2016. These tragedies united the community with a purpose: to raise awareness, honour the lost and prevent future road trauma. SOCK empowers communities to take ownership of road safety and transform grief into action by adopting safer driving habits, making informed choices and ultimately minimising the risk of serious crashes in regional areas. Established by the Shire of Narembeen, supported by the Road Safety Commission, the initiative’s adaptable and sustainable model leaves a lasting message: save our country kids.
TRANSAFE WA of Osborne Park is helping reduce crashes and saving lives statewide. In 2023, TRANSAFE WA launched iNSTRUCKTA!, a purpose-built, mobile road safety education truck, to address the risks of sharing roads with heavy vehicles. Through virtual reality, blind spot demonstrations, interactive quizzes, and hands-on activities, participants learn how to safely interact with trucks. Since its debut, iNSTRUCKTA! has attended over 140 events and reached more than 45,000 people, with over 80% of visits in regional areas. The initiative is embraced by schools, agricultural shows, and job expos. They are changing perceptions of truck drivers, raising awareness of key risks, and influencing long-term behaviours.
Curtin University, School of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Annabel Kanakis of Bunbury is dedicated to building a strong future-focused STEM culture across communities. Annabel is a science teacher and STEM coordinator who has shaped education in WA’s South West for more than 20 years. Her innovative initiatives, including the STEMXX Sisters program and Science Café, have inspired students to pursue STEM pathways and achieve outstanding academic success. Annabel has strengthened science education statewide through her leadership as President of the Science Teachers’ Association of WA, as a national board member with ASTA, and as co-convener of the national ConASTA conference. She has mentored students in international competitions and delivered STEM outreach in Laos.
Chris Buck of Hedland is making a remarkable impact in his first years of teaching after graduating through Teach For Australia (TFA). He is a passionate science teacher who enriches learning and serves as a relatable role model at Hedland Senior High School. Chris supported the reinvigoration of the school’s Breakfast Club, a daily program providing nutritious meals that support student wellbeing, concentration, and engagement. He successfully secured funding from TFA, complimented by existing funding from Northern Star Resources and food supplies from Foodbank, allowing expansion of a valuable initiative. Chris’ leadership and innovation foster a sense of inclusion, community and connection between staff and students.
Deborah Donation of Wananami is shaping future community leaders. Deborah has dedicated almost three decades to strengthening education in the Kimberley through her role as an Aboriginal and Islander Education Officer at Wananami Remote Community School. She has pioneered culturally responsive teaching, embedding Ngarinyin language, culture, and Elder-led learning into classrooms across Imintji, Kupungarri, and Dodnun communities. Deborah co-designed the Two-Way Science program, blending Aboriginal knowledge with the WA Science Curriculum. She has also led language revival initiatives to protect cultural heritage. A recipient of the 2024 Public Service Medal, Deborah is recognised as a leader who empowers children to grow strong in culture and learning.
East Manjimup Primary School (EMPS) is a driving force for academic excellence in the Warren Blackwood region. EMPS coordinates four annual academic interschool competitions: Spellademic, Science, Speak Up, and VEX Robotics. Involving up to a dozen schools each, these events showcase talent in spelling, science, public speaking, and technology, while offering extension opportunities for students often overlooked in sport-focused activities. The programs have inspired other schools to adopt similar initiatives, strengthening community engagement, with families and local organisations supporting the events. Staff have also embraced leadership roles. By raising the profile of academic achievement, EMPS is fostering a culture of intellectual curiosity, confidence, and pride across regional schools.
Karen Augustson, Principal of Djidi Djidi Aboriginal School in Bunbury, is committed to delivering culturally safe, inclusive, and high-impact education for Aboriginal students. She leads with a strong focus on community collaboration, embedding Noongar language and culture across the curriculum. Under her leadership, the school has introduced innovative programs like Two-Way Science and a photographic arts initiative that fosters student voice and confidence. Karen champions evidence-based literacy practices and trauma-informed approaches, positioning Djidi Djidi as a lighthouse school for Aboriginal education. She works closely with Elders, families, and local organisations to ensure learning is grounded in culture, community, and Country.
Pan Pacific Perth Sustainability Award
Australian Natural Biotechnology of Perth (ANB) is championing innovation, inclusivity, and bee welfare. ANB has transformed the honey industry with its award-winning Honey Moon honeycomb frame, enabling bees to build retail-ready, hygienic comb with no post-harvest handling. This breakthrough reduces waste, boosts returns for beekeepers, and delivers premium-quality honeycomb to consumers worldwide. Under the leadership of founder Ben Pan and Dr Peter Detchon, ANB also pioneered non-lethal bee venom extraction, advanced recyclable food-grade packaging, and expanded exports into competitive markets such as China and the United Arab Emirates. The company actively supports Indigenous beekeepers through partnerships with the Noongar Land Enterprise Group and fosters community, research, and sustainability initiatives.
Green Skills Inc. Container Recycling Albany is committed to creating lasting social and environmental impact for communities and the planet. Since 2020, the Containers for Change initiative has transformed recycling in WA’s Great Southern region, diverting more than 31 million containers from landfill. The program has also created inclusive jobs and training pathways for youth, people with disabilities, and those in post-incarceration. Led by Jason Balhorn, the initiative delivers mobile collection services, innovative technology, and strong community partnerships with schools, councils, and charities. Green Skills Inc. empowers individuals, supports local fundraising, and builds environmental awareness
Harris Organic Wine and Spirits of Baskerville promotes a resilient and sustainable future. Founded by Duncan Harris, Harris Organic Wine and Spirits is Perth’s only certified organic winery and distillery. For over 27 years, Duncan has transformed a dry block in the Swan Valley into a thriving organic estate, producing wines and spirits through dryland viticulture and sustainable practices. Innovations include Australia’s first certified organic brandy, small-batch distillation using solar and wood-fired energy, and a closed-loop system that minimises waste and reduces environmental impact. Duncan has trained over 40 interns and volunteers. He has republished historic viticulture resources and contributed to regional identity through the Swan Valley Winemakers Association.
Hayes Tree Care of Mandurah advocates for sustainable arboriculture. Founded by Nick and Leona Hayes in 2022, Hayes Tree Care uses innovative practices such as canopy thinning, corrective bracing, and habitat pruning to protect trees and biodiversity. When removal is unavoidable, all materials are repurposed through milling, furniture use, school donations, mulch, or firewood. Hayes Tree Care also actively empowers the Peel community through education, National Tree Day participation, school programs, and partnerships with councils and wildlife organisations. With a strong commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community, the business has received multiple awards, positioning it as a leader in building a greener, more resilient future.
Pemberton Discovery Tours is a family-run eco-adventure company sharing the magic of Western Australia’s karri forests, Yeagarup Dunes, and wild beaches since 1999. Owners Graeme and Toni Dearle lead small-group 4WD tours, camping, and trail experiences that connect visitors to nature while protecting it for future generations. Their sustainability commitment includes Advanced Ecotourism Certification, solar investment, and a 100-hectare rewilding project planting over 40,000 native trees. They run annual coastal clean-ups, support biodiversity monitoring, and partner with conservation groups. Their WA Wilderness Camping and Yeagarup Hut project show how tourism can care for Country while inspiring guests to do the same.
Awards Australia Foundation Local Legend Award
Kate Raston of Wembley Downs is tackling gender-based violence and creating inclusive communities. Kate is the Co-founder and Executive Director of We Are W/M, a youth charity that delivers relationships and sexuality education to over 22,000 young people, improving consent literacy and fostering equity. Her independent advocacy includes leading a national research project on sex education in boys’ schools. She has sparked media and policy conversations, and challenged institutional failures such as WA Police misconduct. Kate also founded Coastal Cadence, a free community run club that has grown into a safe, affirming network of 170+ women and LGBTQIA+ participants. She is a leader who inspires systemic change.
Michael Filby of Walpole is an environmental leader. Since 2004, Michael has dedicated himself to roadside clean-ups across the South West and Great Southern regions, covering more than 350,000km and removing hundreds of bags of litter each year. His voluntary efforts while caring for his late partner, have been instrumental in Walpole being recognised as Australia’s only Litter Free town and in securing multiple environmental awards. Michael’s work has inspired others to join litter prevention initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on the Walpole Wilderness area. He has been named the Dame Phyllis Frost Awardee, Citizen of the Year (Manjimup), and Individual Community Champion of Australia.
Riley and Jordan Coker of Mount Hawthorn are inspiring young changemakers. In honour of their friends, they have raised over $15,000 for HeartKids and Down Syndrome WA through cupcake stalls, toy sales, charity auctions, and their biggest project - turning their artwork into greeting cards. In 2024 alone, they sold nearly 4,000 cards, sparking powerful conversations about inclusion, illness, and kindness around the world. They shared their story with more than 20,000 kids across Australia, continue to inspire through kid-led interviews with children with disabilities, and support the homeless. Recognised by the Perth Wildcats as role models and speaking at Optus Stadium with the Fremantle Dockers, Riley and Jordan prove that small hands create big change. Balancing school and sport, they show resilience, creativity, and extraordinary leadership.
Rosalyn Davidson of Toodyay is championing equity, kindness, and community support. Roz founded Toodyay Locals Care (TLC). Despite personal challenges as a single parent and cancer survivor, she built TLC from her kitchen table into a vital service hub. Leading 37 volunteers, Roz provides medical transport, food assistance, clothing, emergency supplies, and access to a 24/7 ablution block. TLC also runs a community garden and redistributes essential medical equipment. Her work has improved lives, giving hope to cancer patients, dignity to homeless individuals, and purpose to volunteers. Recognised as Toodyay’s Citizen and Senior Citizen of the Year, Roz continues to inspire with her message: “Be kind.”
Soa Palelei of Perth Airport inspires resilience. Once a UFC fighter known as “The Hulk,” Soa has transformed his lived experience of hardship into a mission of hope. After retiring in 2015, he founded Strong Minds, Strong Mines to support FIFO and DIDO workers, reaching over 20,000 individuals across Australia. He then launched Strong Minds, Strong Schools to equip young people with mental health tools. His Corporate Boxing Event has raised more than $480,000 for charities including Lifeline and Autism WA. Soa’s innovative programs are credited with saving lives and improving cultures. He has awarded Mental Health Advocate of the Year and Community Citizen of the Year.
Awards Australia Community Group Award
Busselton Hospice Care Inc (BHCI) is dedicated to providing compassionate end-of-life care and bereavement support. BHCI is a community-led, volunteer-driven charity established in 1989. They deliver over 10,000 volunteer hours annually to enhance palliative care services at Busselton Hospital. Programs include bereavement support, complementary therapies, carer education, and icommunity education services. An example initiative, Death Cafes, helps improve community “death literacy.” Funded through community generosity and partnerships, BHCI continues to expand through new social enterprises. They were named Best Regional Organisation at the 2023 WACOSS Community Services Excellence Awards. BHCI is committed to its mission: “Everyone matters – no-one needs to die or grieve alone.”
Dampier Community Association DCA) strives to encourage, embrace, empower and enhance their local community. The heart of Dampier for nearly 60 years, DCA strengthens community life through events, facilities, advocacy and support. With over 350 members and strong financial sustainability, they are governed by volunteers and supported by staff. The DCA delivers over 30 events annually, including Art, Photo & Writing Awards, Markets, Movies and Twilight Tunes, whilst managing key facilities such as the Community Hub, Caravan Park and Beachside Kiosk. Its projects range from a Seniors program and a Community Garden to sponsorships supporting schools, clubs, and local initiatives.
Dandelions WA, based in Malaga, is a volunteer-run charity giving disadvantaged children across Western Australia an equal start to the school year. Since launching its Back to School campaign in 2020, starting with just 220 backpacks, Dandelions WA now supports over 15,000 children annually, with more than 31,500 helped to date. Each backpack includes stationery, lunchboxes, water bottles, and hygiene kits, helping children start school with equality, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Partnering with over 420 schools, government agencies, and community groups, the charity eases pressure on families and fosters inclusion. The campaign is proudly recognised by the WA Government and Telethon.
Earbus Foundation of WA is ensuring hearing health is never a barrier to opportunity. Its flagship Hearing Health Program is a mobile, community-led initiative addressing high rates of ear disease and hearing loss among Aboriginal and at-risk children in regional Western Australia. Since 2014, purpose-built mobile clinics have delivered screenings, treatment, audiology, ENT consultations, health education, and follow-up care across the Pilbara, Goldfields, Esperance, and Carnarvon. In 2024 alone, the program provided 19,102 occasions of care to 4,186 children, focusing on early intervention. Co-designed with Aboriginal Knowledge Holders, the program is culturally safe and achieves exceptional community consent rates, reflecting strong trust and meaningful collaboration.
Wheatbelt & Beyond Youth Mentoring Inc (WBYM) empowers socially and geographically isolated regional, rural, and remote young people across Western Australia to thrive. Since program development began in 2011, over 500 students have been matched with positive role models who provide consistent one-on-one support through weekly online communication, camps, face-to-face meetings and community activities. WBYM currently runs 10 programs with 150 mentors supporting 200 students, building resilience, confidence, mental health and wellbeing, and aspirations beyond the limits of isolation. Their program is recognised for its flexibility, simplicity, long-term mentor retention, and strong partnerships with schools, universities, and community organisations.