By Abbey Cannan
A rising star at Sunshine Beach State High School has been announced as this year’s winner of the Wantima Award for the best academic performance by an Indigenous student.
Nataley Evans was presented with a $250 sponsored cheque by Jared Black from Black & More, alongside local elder Les Muckan at a recent school ceremony.
Managing director Tony Black said Black & More were so pleased to be involved in the Wantima Award.
“This year’s recipient is a very deserving young lady and we are thrilled to be a part of this recognition for Best Academic Performance by an Indigenous Student at SBSH,” Mr Black said.
Head Of Year 8 and Indigenous Co-ordinator Shanon Hill said the Wantima Award acknowledges the best academic performance by an Indigenous student in years 7-10 at SBSHS.
“Nataley has achieved the highest academic result, in addition she is a very well-mannered and respected young lady who is recognised for her mature and caring approach. A gorgeous young lady who I believe will achieve her dreams.”
Ms Hill said the award was created to recognise the school’s Indigenous student’s academic achievements.
“The Aboriginal people called Noosa Head, Wantima, meaning rising up or climbing up,” she said.
The award was presented by local elder Les Muckan to create a connection between the local Undumbi Tribe within the Kabi Kabi nation and the First Nation people at Sunshine Beach State High School.
“I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the country on which I live and work,” Ms Hill said.
“I acknowledge them not only as the Traditional Owners but as a part of the oldest, ongoing culture on the planet and as valued, fellow country men and women of Australia.
“Over the years, Uncle Tais and I have created a relationship that is helping ‘Close the Gap’ towards reconciliation in our community. We work together to teach ‘Cultural Revival become Cultural Survival’.
“He is a very well respected Elder who gives a lot of his time and wisdom to our school and community.”
Mr Muckan said it was important to teach and highlight Indigenous culture in the education system.
“The award is used to acknowledge, recognise and highlight our beliefs and our connection to country,” he said.
“Why not do it in places such as schools like this. The education of our beliefs and customs are able to get stronger. A lot of our history and cultural and spiritual knowledge is now gone into the wayside, so we need to start exercising it a lot more.
“This young lass is a First Nation person in our country and that brings light on it.”
