As part of recognising and celebrating NAIDOC Week, Lismore City Council awarded the annual Cory James Memorial Scholarship for Indigenous staff to fleet services mechanic Shannan Caldwell.
The scholarship is in memory of the Cory James, a young Indigenous Council employee who passed away suddenly in 2019. He was a proud Indigenous man who wanted to promote his culture and heritage within the community.
Aunty Jenny presented this year's scholarship to Shannan, 33, before a large crowd at Council's Brunswick Street Depot.
The scholarship allows Shannan to choose from various training options that will empower his technical skills and strengthen his broader career options.
Shannan said being awarded the scholarship would open more career options for him.
"I am so humbled to have been awarded this scholarship," he said.
"This scholarship will allow me to select training courses to grow my technical knowledge as a mechanic and equip me with the skills I need to continue to advance my career. It opens pathways for my career as a mechanic, which is a job I love."
"Most importantly, passing knowledge to my community in North Casino so they have basic knowledge of keeping their car running smoothly is important to me. You never know, they might find the same passion as me and go on to a career as a mechanic, which is a very rewarding industry, especially at Lismore City Council."
Lismore City Council's General Manager, Jon Gibbons, highlighted the importance of the Cory James Memorial Scholarship.
"This scholarship not only honours the legacy of Cory James, a young Indigenous man dedicated to promoting his culture and heritage within our community, but it also reflects our commitment to supporting the growth and development of our Indigenous staff," he said.
"By enabling Shannan to enrol in quality advanced training opportunities, he can further advance and thrive in his career.
"By investing in our employees, we are investing in the future of Lismore."
Council will continue to use National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC to recognise the achievements of Indigenous staff and assist in their development and career pathways.
PICTURE: From left, Lismore City Council General Manager Jon Gibbons, Aunty Jenny, Shannan Caldwell and Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.
