WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Western Australian Community Achievement Awards

2025 Winners

 

Economic Development Award

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.

Make it Happen HQ has won the prestigious Pan Pacific Perth Sustainability Award and was presented by Heather Brayford, Director General, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. (2nd from the Left)

 

Rinehart Development of Northern Regional WA Award

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 Kimberley University Centres (Left) has won the prestigious Rinehart Development of Northern Regional WA Award and was presented by Lauren Melville, Sponsorship Assistant, Hancock Prospecting. (Right)

 

Konica Minolta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Community Achievement Award

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.

Mallard Contracting Pty Ltd (right) has won the prestigious Konica Minolta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples Community Achievement Award and was presented by Dave Martin, State Service Delivery Manager, Western Australia, Konica Minolta. (Left)

 

Insurance Commission of WA Regional Safety Award

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.

Clontarf Foundation (right) has won the prestigious Insurance Commission of Western Australia Regional Safety Award and was presented by Shanaeya Mehta, Chief Financial Officer, Insurance Commission of Western Australia. (Left)

 

Curtin University, School of Education Teaching Excellence Award

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.

Chris Buck (right) has won the prestigious Curtin University, School of Education Teaching Excellence Award and was presented by Professor Darren Bryant, Deputy Head of School, Curtin University, School of Education. (Left)

 

Pan Pacific Perth Sustainability Award

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.

Duncan from Harris Organic Wine and Spirits (right) has won the prestigious Pan Pacific Perth Sustainability Award and was presented by Rens Breur, General Manager, Pan Pacific Perth. (Left)

 

Badgingarra Roadhouse Local Legend Award

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.”

Rosalyn Davidson (right) has won the prestigious Badgingarra Roadhouse Local Legend Award and was presented by Britney Henderson, Badgingarra Roadhouse. (Left)

 

Awards Australia Community Group Award

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.

Dandelions WA has won the prestigious Awards Australia Community Group Award and was presented by Caroline Surtees, CEO & Co Founder, Olive Grove Centre of Early Learning. (middle)