First Nations Producers/Directors Aaron Fa’Aoso and Rachel Perkins were both nominated this week as finalists for the National NAIDOC Week Award.
Aaron Fa’Aoso, who recently gave the Hector Crawford Memorial Lecture, founded the Lone Star Production Group (Narrow to the plate, Blue Water Empire).
Rachel Perkins, who founded Blackfella Films, is best known for producing and/or directing Redfern Now, The Australian Wars, Mystery Road, Mabo, AND First contact.
They join author/playwright Dr Anita Heiss as three finalists in the Creative Talent category.
“The NAIDOC National Committee is very fortunate to be able to read the stories of so many people who are achieving remarkable results and working tirelessly to support their communities,” said NAIDOC National Committee Co-Chair, Dr. Lynette Riley. “It is an honor to be tasked with selecting these incredible finalists.”
“The National NAIDOC Week Awards aim to recognize and honor Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who truly understand their community and work to create positive change,” said Co-Chair Steven Satour, “Every year we receive nominations from across the country, from big cities to small communities, and today we pay tribute to each and every one of those people.”
A Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Aunt Dr Naomi Mayers OAM, a Yorta Yorta and Wiradjuri woman, a leader in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and was an original member of the groundbreaking music group, The Sapphires.
Winners will be announced at the NAIDOC National Week Awards Ceremony on Saturday, July 1.
