National NAIDOC Award Winners

(Aunty) Judy Tatow (Queensland) - Elder of the Year (Female)

Aunty Judy comes from Rockhampton, and has worked within her community for the past 30 years.

Judy has a commitment to Indigenous people and education, helping to establish the Tarumbal Kindergarten and Preschool. To this day she encourages both young and old to learn the rich and varied history of their ancestors.

For many years she has collected donations of food and delivered it to families in need. She has spent many long hours and weekends helping the plight of the homeless.

Judy has built up a strong relationship with the Rockhampton Base Hospital where she acts as a support officer for Indigenous patients experiencing difficulties being separated from family and community. She is on call 24 hours a day for crisis work within the Indigenous community, above and beyond her normal duties.

She has counselled and provided support for those people whose lives have been touched by cancer, and is a frequent speaker on cancer related topics. Her dedication to the prevention of suicide led her to becoming involved in the production of a suicide prevention video, “Shame, you are not alone”.

She continues to be a mentor to many Indigenous people and a role model to the wider community.