ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø

On Thursday 25 September 2025, the NSW Department of ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø proudly celebrated the 20th Nanga Mai Awards ceremony, honoring the remarkable achievements of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students, educators, early learning services, schools and communities across NSW.  

Aunty Julie Carey, from Kulai Preschool, was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Early ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍøal Achievement by an Aboriginal Staff Member Award. A respected mentor and advocate for Aboriginal education, Aunty Julie has made a long-standing contribution to the early childhood sector. Her leadership in embedding culture, language and identity has enriched learning environments across NSW.

Aunty Julie’s guidance has empowered educators and strengthened the cultural safety of many early learning services, ensuring that Aboriginal children see their heritage honoured and respected. Through close partnerships with local families and Elders, the preschool has developed programs centred on Aboriginal language, culture and community voice. Her achievements reflect meaningful family engagement, strong community collaboration and an environment where children feel a genuine sense of belonging and identity.

The department extends its congratulations to Aunty Julie Carey for being recognised for her commitment to Aboriginal education among our early learners.

About the Nanga Mai Awards

The Nanga Mai Awards are a NSW Department of ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø initiative, established out of the Partnership Agreement between the NSW Department of ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø and the NSW Aboriginal ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø Consultative Group Inc. (AECG). Over the past two decades, this Agreement has provided the foundation for recognising and celebrating Aboriginal excellence in education among schools, early learning services, families and communities. These awards highlight inspiring stories of leadership, innovation and cultural engagement within our schools and communities.

We look forward to continuing to support and celebrate Aboriginal voices, practices and pathways for children, families and educators across NSW.

View all the winners of Nanga Mai Awards