Scholarships for the Cr Pat Dixon Memorial Scholarship have been awarded to two First Nations people in the local government sector, from the City of Sydney and Penrith City Council.
Wiradjuri woman Cr Yvonne Weldon gained her scholarship to support her research in social and affordable housing, planning and housing alternative models.
Cr Weldon – an independent councillor from the City of Sydney – is the first Aboriginal councillor elected to that council in the City’s 180-year history.
Wiradjuri man Joshua Staines is the Acting Social Strategy Program Manager from Penrith City Council and was awarded the scholarship to help support his Master of Business Administration at Southern Cross University.
Both successful applicants plan to use their new skills at their respective councils for the betterment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in their communities and in the local government sector.
Cr Pat Dixon family member and Trustee Warren Roberts said: “We are honoured to give out these scholarships to two very deserving recipients on behalf of Cr Pat Dixon’s family.
“Her legacy continues to be remembered through this scholarship program and she continues to inspire Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the local government sector.”
Local Government NSW President and Trustee Cr Darriea Turley said she was proud of the two recipients chosen by the trustees.
“We could not have chosen two better recipients to honour the legacy of Cr Pat Dixon,” Cr Turley said.
“Pat was a giant for her people and it’s fabulous that the Trust in her name is helping to foster the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the local government sector.”
Trustee Cr Dominic Wy Kanak said: “This year’s Trust Awards go to two First Nations People with links to Wiradjuri homelands. The NSW Local Government Aboriginal Network is glad to Honour the Memory and carry on the local government legacy of (Aunty) Councillor Pat Dixon.”
The purpose of the Cr Pat Dixon Memorial Scholarship is to provide financial support to Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander councillors and staff working in local government who are undertaking further study, research, or professional development to enhance their skills and abilities in their jobs.
There will be another round of scholarships available in 2024 and we encourage all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elected representatives and staff in the local government sector to consider applying next year.
