Tickets will go on sale on Monday, 19 May at 1pm for the 2025 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards. A prestigious event celebrating the achievements and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and businesses across Illawarra and Shoalhaven area.
The awards will be held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre on Saturday 26 July 2025 and shine a spotlight on outstanding contributions from across the region.
Shellharbour City Council is delivering the event in partnership with Wollongong City Council, Kiama Municipal Council and Shoalhaven City Council.
Caption: Tickets for the 2025 Local Government Regional NAIDOC Awards will be released on Monday, 19 May and will be held at the Shellharbour Civic Centre. Image courtesy of Shoalhaven City Council
The awards night is a key highlight of NAIDOC Week from July 6-13. This year marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, themed 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy', celebrating the leadership of Elders past and present, and the promise held by future generations.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer encouraged community members to attend the event.
"We're incredibly excited to welcome the community to what promises to be a powerful and uplifting evening at this year's Regional NAIDOC Awards," Mayor Homer said.
"Tickets are now on sale, and I encourage everyone to come along, celebrate local achievements, and experience the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. It's a night not to be missed."
Awards presented on the night will include:
• Elder of the Year (Aunty and Uncle)
• Community Member of the Year
• Young Achievers of the Year (two awards)
• Caring for Country and Culture
• Aboriginal Community Volunteer of the Year
• Organisation of the Year (not-for-profit or business)
• Outstanding Contribution to Reconciliation (open to both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal
nominees)
The 2025 event promises to be an evening of inspiration, cultural pride, and celebration, featuring live
performances, guest speakers, and a formal dinner.
PERFORMERS
KUTCHA EDWARDS (HEADLINE PERFORMER)
Kutcha Edwards, Mutti Mutti, Yorta Yorta, Nari Nari Songman is one of the Country's most respected Indigenous singer-songwriters. Kutcha has long been the voice for social change, a leader for Indigenous rights, and a storyteller who captures the hearts and minds of audiences with his soulful melodies, powerful lyrics and soaring vocals. Through the voice and art of music Kutcha is able to create connections across cultures, generations, and spaces.
ISAAC COMPTON (MC)
Isaac Compton is a Munanjali, Minjungbul and Wiradjuri man born in Griffith NSW, with deep cultural and community connections to Dubbo, Peak Hill, Sydney and Tweed Heads. Experienced MC, professional musician, popular social media phenomenon, reality TV personality and self-proclaimed comedian - Isaac uses humour to bring important issues to the surface.
Council would like to thank Burri Burri (Platinum) sponsors Big Fat Smile for their generous support of this event. We'd also like to thank Ghoon a Ghaan (Gold) sponsors - Southern Youth and Family Services, ECTARC, and Wollongong Strata Management.
Click here for tickets from $80.
Events details:
Date: Saturday, 26 July 2025
Time: 4pm - 9:30pm
Venue: Shellharbour Civic Centre
