Victorian Aboriginal Womens Awards 2000

Women in the ARTS Award

The winner CHRISTINE WARD
Christine matriculated from Castlemaine Technical College in 1987, part of her studies involved taking on the female principal role for the musical "BYE BYE BIRDIE", her performance included 7 solo performances.
She completed the Monash orientation scheme for Aborigines, Monash University in Clayton, in 1988.
Christine has had a number of sporadic performances. These include a principle female role for a koorie musical "NAROOLA", based on a young girl being taken away.
In 1999 she was nominated for "FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR" at the Warnambool’s "SPIRIT OF THE SEA" Festival.
Christine has made not only a commitment to her art, which is singing, but also to her Aboriginal community, she is always available when her community calls on her support.

Women in EDUCATION Award

The winner ESME SAUNDERS
Some of Esme’s achievements include;
Founding member of YAPPRA CHILD CARE CENTRE
Founding member of GOULBURN HOUSING MURRAY REGION
Founding member of BATJA CHILD CARE CENTRE
Esme was the first Aboriginal teacher employed by Goulburn Valley AECG
Involved with the establishment of "MANGA School
Secretary of the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc
Inaugural member of Victoria for the Reconciliation Council
Esme was also Director of the Institution of Koorie Education Research Centre Unit, Deacon University.
Esme, has with determination broken down barriers and is passionate about the past, present and future development of Education in this state.


Women in BUSINESS Award

The winner VALDA BRAY
Valda founded her business seven years ago and even in these very tough economic times she continues to build her thriving business ‘REDBANK HONEY".
Valda has not asked for or had very much financial or business support, and she is not scared of hard work. Her persistence in continually marketing is starting to pay off for her.


Women in HEALTH Award

The winner BARBRA McEWAN
Barbara has for the last 20 years set about installing positive changes in her community. Barbara was among a group of university students who established the DJA DJA WRUNG CO-OPERATIVE in the 1980’s.
She is one of the few qualified Indigenous Masseurs in Australia
In her spare time she runs her healing business.
Barbara is quoted as saying, "white fella’s call it mental health, but, us mob call it spiritual and emotional well being", Barbara through her work has recognised a burning need in the Indigenous community to help heal broken spirits. Broken by factors like, being stolen, institutionalized and loss of culture.
As a result of Barbara’s hard work and commitment, a Koorie Unit is being established at the BENDIGO BASE HOSPITAL, something Barbara aimed for since the start of her career.