The Griffith and surrounding areas’ 13th Proud and Deadly Awards Day was held on Monday 12 September at Griffith High School. The day saw 16 schools, over 200 students and the Indigenous community join together to celebrate the achievements of their Indigenous students.
After Ty Powell entertained the audience with his Didgeridoo playing, Wiradjuri Elder Aunty Gloria Goolagong and Griffith High Year 12 student Madison Penrith opened the Awards Day with the Welcome to Country in Language.
Students were acknowledged on the day for Academic Achievement, Performing, Creative and Visual Arts, Leadership, TVET/VET, Outstanding Sport Achievement, Aboriginal Cultural Engagement, Aboriginal Studies Award Stage 6, Citizenship, Excellent Application in All Areas and Year 12 Completion.
The day also included performances from the Wiradjuri Preschool, Griffith High School students, Wade High School and the Griffith Public School choir.
Special guests of the day included Adrian Piccoli MP, who presented the Academic Achievement Award, Mr David Lamb, Director of Education, who presented the Excellent Application in All Areas Award, and Mr David Crelley, Principal of Griffith High School, who presented the Year 12 Completion Award.
Ms Shailyn Williams and Mr Anthony Edwards received the Aboriginal Community Award, which was presented to them by Superintendent Mr Michael Rowan. Mr Craig McIver received the Community Award for his work in supporting Aboriginal education.
This year, Griffith High School was presented with the AECG School Award for their work in improving the outcomes of Indigenous students and outstanding Indigenous programs.
The Proud and Deadly Awards Day committee would like to thank Griffith High Students Madison Penrith and Jake Harrison who were the official emcees; and Garry Longford, Kira Hart, Meagan Johnstone, Ned Bamblett and Jalen Robins, who presented certificates and awards, organised the music and microphones and ushered guest to their seats. Thank you also to the Year 12 students who cooked the BBQ for the students and the community.
We would also like to acknowledge and thank Mr Anthony Stipo, photographic journalist from The Area News, who provided the photos.
