2025 SER Department of Education NAIDOC Art Competition Winner:
Chanel. Piece ‘Murangarra’.
The theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates the unyielding spirit of our communities and calls for the amplification of voices long silenced. Chanel’s artwork beautifully embodies this message, reflecting the strength, wisdom, and cultural connection of women through the powerful imagery of ochre markings.
‘Murangarra’ (Be Alive - Wiradjuri) – A Celebration of Womanhood and Culture for Future Generations, tells the story of a woman whose life is marked by her experiences and connection to her culture. The ochre lines on her skin represent her journey and the lessons she’s learned, with her story being passed down to future generations.Over 250 entries were submitted to the Department of Education, and Chanel’s artwork stood out for its powerful storytelling and connection to the theme.

2025 SER Department of Education NAIDOC Indigenous Education Worker/Teacher Award Winner: Trish Borg.
This award acknowledges and provides significant recognition to the support of the Identified Indigenous Education Workers and Identified Teacher Aides within SER schools. They are often the first port-of-call for students, staff and parents and often go above and beyond to support them all.
Trish was nominated for this award for the ongoing support she provides our First Nations Students here at Palm Beach Currumbin High School. Trish works tirelessly to ensure that all of the First Nations Students here at school are provided with opportunities to succeed in school and beyond and to close the current educational gap that exists between Indigenous and non-indigenous students in Australia.
2025 SER Department of Education NAIDOC Academic Excellence Awards: Evie and Taylor-Lee.
Each year, the South East Region Department of Education celebrates NAIDOC alongside students, staff, principals, teachers, teacher aides, and community through an annual NAIDOC Awards Ceremony. This event honours Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, staff, and community members who have shown excellence in their studies and/or made significant contributions to their community. We congratulate Evie and Taylor-Lee on their contribution to their school, studies and community.
