Media Statements

Premier Campbell Newman today opened nominations for the 2013 Queensland Reconciliation Awards, which recognise projects that have contributed to reconciliation in Queensland.

Mr Newman is encouraging businesses, community organisations, councils and educational institutions to nominate projects which have made a difference in Queensland.

“Whether an Indigenous or non-Indigenous organisation, a small grassroots community group or large multinational, there are no limits when it comes to making a difference,” Mr Newman said.

“Reconciliation is about building respectful relationships and partnerships within the broader community, providing new opportunities and promoting fairness in all Queenslanders.

“This awards program gives due recognition to Queenslanders who have worked hard towards reconciliation in our community.

“I look forward to honouring and celebrating the many worthy projects and initiatives from across the state this year.”

In 2012, a diverse range of reconciliation projects were acknowledged for social responsibility, reconciliation plans and widespread collaboration.    

The awards program offers a total prize pool of $25,000 across five categories: Business, Education, Community, Partnership and an overall Premier’s Reconciliation Award.

Nominations close Friday 12 April 2013 and winners will be announced at a ceremony during NAIDOC week in July.

For more information or to download a nomination form visit www.reconciliation.qld.gov.au or telephone 07 3405 5215.

The Queensland Reconciliation Awards is an initiative of the Queensland Government through the Department of the Premier and Cabinet and the Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs. The awards are proudly supported by Indigenous Business Australia, Leighton Contractors, BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance, 612 ABC Brisbane, ABC Local Radio and the Koori Mail.

[ENDS] 1 March 2013

Media contact: Premier’s office 3224 4500

2012 Queensland Reconciliation Award winners

Business Award

• Islanders Board of Industry and Service for “Social Responsibility” – a project incorporating partnerships with many organisations and community groups to improve standards and opportunities throughout the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula

Education Award

• Sunshine Coast Institute of TAFE for its “Reconciliation Action Plan” – a project driving the institute’s commitment to innovative training delivery and initiatives, student support, client relationships and community networks and strategies

Community Organisation Award

• Mungalla Aboriginal Business Corporation for its “Cultural and Historic Tours” – a project emphasising how people can coexist in the spirit of reconciliation and harmony through the amazing history of the first settlers on Mungalla Station and the Nywaigi people

Partnerships Award

• The Centre for Appropriate Technology, Engineers Without Borders Australia, Bana Yarralji Bubu Inc and Aurecon for “Shipton's Flat Partnership Project - Bana Yarralji Ranger Base” – a unique partnership model to build an Aboriginal ranger base and associated essential services on Kuku Nyungkal Country

Premier’s Reconciliation Award

• Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts and Link-Up (Qld) Aboriginal Corporation for “Stolen” – the first of a series of collaborations between two unique organisations that share opposite ends of the reconciliation process