Beris Duroux from the Grafton Education Office has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to Aboriginal education in NSW public schools at the 19th annual Nanga Mai Awards.

Aunty Beris is one of 10 dedicated teachers, community leaders and/or schools to win an award this year. She joined 14 students with outstanding results in diverse areas, as confident public speakers, talented performing artists and high achieving sportspeople, to win an award this year. Aunty Beris received the Outstanding Leadership in Aboriginal Education award for her significant contributions to Aboriginal education since the 1980’s

Aunty Beris, a proud Yaegl woman with strong connections to the Bundjalung and Gumbaynggirr nations, has served as an Aboriginal Education Officer, teacher, and Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer. She has been a role model and mentor to countless Aboriginal staff.

She has played a pivotal role in connecting communities with schools, notably through the Three Rivers, One Mob program and the highly regarded Rivers of Learning initiative at Maclean High School. She has empowered local communities to establish and sustain Aboriginal Education Consultative Groups (AECGs) and has been instrumental in the creation of functional Junior AECGs in schools.

Her commitment to community is also evident in her support for the Bulla Jugun program, which bridges the Bundjalung and Gumbaynggirr communities and schools on both sides of the Clarence River, enriching the educational experience for all students.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said NSW public schools worked to enhance and elevate Aboriginal culture and identity through education.

“Today we celebrate educational excellence in our Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander learners, leaders and educators,” Ms Car said.

“I want to send a big congratulations to all the hardworking students, teachers, school and community leaders being honoured at the Nanga Mai Awards.”

NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar said the quality of the nominations for the 2024 awards had been outstanding.

 “Congratulations to all our award winners. These awards recognise students, staff and community members who demonstrate excellence across all areas of Aboriginal education, from academic achievement, performing arts and public speaking, through to sport and leadership,” he said.

 “Improving outcomes for Aboriginal students is crucial to building the equitable and outstanding public education system we strive for under the Plan for NSW Public education.

 “Key to that is providing culturally responsive educational opportunities for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students and colleagues to enable them to thrive.”