Selected speeches

Darran’darra Good-ling-gwa Batji-wa

Good afternoon everyone

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

I send my respect to the Larrakia People and their Elders past, present and future – and extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

It is my great pleasure to warmly welcome you to the 39th International Food Fair, organised by the Buddhist Society of the Northern Territory.

I firmly believe that what makes the Northern Territory great is the way that our communities come together in all of our diversity. Faith and spiritual practices are one way to bring people together and another great way to bring people together is food! So, this is a wonderful combination, to be treated to traditional cultural performances and enjoy Sri Lankan, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Thai, Burmese and Indian food.

This event serves an important purpose: raising funds for maintaining the temple and facilitating various Buddhist groups and visitors learning and practicing Buddhism. It also provides a place for meditation groups such as Darwin Zen, Healing Meditation, and Chakra Meditation, to teach, practice and perform meditation.

It is no small feat to put on such an event and I would like to acknowledge the many community members who have been working tirelessly, donating food, cooking delicious dishes and all the other tasks required to make the event a success. I would also like to congratulate those who have been part of the food fair for nearly four decades. Thank you for your support, time and participation.

I express my gratitude to all of you for allowing us to celebrate the Territory’s wonderful diversity of cultures, where the Buddhist Society of the Northern Territory is not only part of this diversity, but are a remarkably diverse group of Sri Lankan, Vietnamese, Thai, Burmese, Chinese, Cambodian and Anglo-European Buddhist groups and practitioners.

I am honoured to be here with you today at this wonderful event. Let us enjoy our time together this afternoon.

Darran’darra Damung-gwa Batji-wa

Good evening

Distinguished guests

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

I send my respect to the Larrakia People and their Elders past, present and future – and extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

It is my honour to present the Steve Abala Sporting Role Model Administrator’s Medal, which goes to a superb athlete in any sporting field, whose sporting career has been strongly connected to the NT and who is considered an ideal role model for the Territory’s young people. The award is named after Steve Abala, a Khungarakung man born in Darwin in 1924, who played Aussie Rules for the Darwin Buffaloes starting at age 15 and later, served his country.

I would like to inspire you by briefly sharing my journey in sports and health. I have participated in many sports since I was 11, successful in many and now in my mid-70s continue to do intense exercise most days. Having competed in the Alice Springs Masters Games over many years I still exercise twice daily with running, cycling, weights and swimming, enjoy bush walking and dancing – if that is considered a sport!

As a health professional, I deeply appreciate the many benefits of exercise: physically, mentally, cognitively, socially, emotionally and spiritually. It is important to strive to do one’s best and find joy in participation. Lifelong activity could literally save your life, and I also believe it will bring you happiness, pleasure and community.

So it is a great privilege to recognise the positive impact that sport can have on society, by awarding the 2024 Steve Abala Role Model award.

This year’s recipient has had an exceptional career in Australian Rules Football. He is an inspiration to those within the sport, the community, and the wider sporting sector. His work with AFL in the Northern Territory and Australia has been influential. His achievements inspire many young and up-and-coming athletes.

A standout performer in the 2007 AFL National under-18 championships, he became the only Northern Territorian to earn All-Australian Honours. Drafted by Hawthorn in 2007, he made his AFL debut in 2008, playing in every game of the season, including an inspirational performance in Hawthorn’s defeat of Geelong in the 2008 AFL Grand Final. This 2015 Norm Smith medallist and three-time All-Australian recipient played 189 games for Hawthorn, and was awarded a Life Membership with the club in 2015.

In recent years, he has devoted time to working with young at-risk Territorians through First Step, an alternative sentencing and youth diversion program.

He is a relatable and inspiring mentor for Aboriginal teenagers who have become disengaged with the education system, helping them find employment and training pathways.

It is my pleasure this evening to announce that the recipient of the 2024 Steve Abala Sporting Role Model Administrator’s Medal is:  Cyril Rioli Junior Boy.

Darran’darra Damung-gwa Batji-wa.

Good evening everyone. Distinguished guests all.

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

I send my respect to the Larrakia People and their Elders past, present and future – and extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

I am honoured to welcome you to this reception in advance of your conference and general meeting, starting tomorrow. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the vital work that councils do for their constituents, as the sphere of government closest to the community. On behalf of Territorians everywhere: thank you for your hard work, dedication and skills. I would particularly like to thank the delegates who have travelled to be here.

I understand that the theme of this conference is Aboriginal Outcomes, based on one of LGANT’s strategic priorities. This is assisting Aboriginal people to have a greater voice to achieve better social, cultural and economic outcomes through influencing policy and collective advocacy.

Working as a Rural Generalist GP in Urapuntja, Ampilatwatja, Amoonguna, Kunbalanya and Minjilang gave me wonderful insights into the cultural significance of our First Nation’s people.

I would like to share some of the latest statistics on Aboriginal representation in government in the NT that I have been provided:

• nine of the NT’s 17 local government councils have majority Aboriginal elected members
• four of these local government councils are entirely Aboriginal elected members
• nearly 60% of all local government elected members in the NT are Aboriginal
• some 89% of regional council elected members are Aboriginal.
• of the 154 elected members in the NT, 92 are Aboriginal elected members
• almost all the members of the 67 local authorities across the 9 regional councils in the NT are Aboriginal people.

This seems an excellent basis for the work you have ahead of you, and indeed, for your conference.

I wish you a productive, enjoyable and successful few days together.

I would like to invite Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis, LGANT President, to the lectern.

Darran-darra Men-egg-gwa. Good morning everyone.

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

I send my respect to the Larrakia People and their Elders past, present and future and I extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

I am delighted to lead today’s International Women’s Day Walk, co-hosted by the United Nations Association of Australia – Northern Territory Division, the City of Darwin and the Office of Gender Equity and Diversity.

International Women's Day, observed annually on March 8th, is a day that celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women; and a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

International Women’s Day is a focal point in the movement for women's rights. It highlights progress in achieving gender equality and the ongoing struggles women face in society. The day aims to raise awareness about issues such as gender-based discrimination, violence against women, and the importance of women's empowerment.

It is wonderful to see Territorians come together in this sea of purple to celebrate International Women’s Day. This year’s theme is ‘Invest in women: Accelerate Progress’.

Achieving Gender Equality and Gender Equity is more crucial than ever if we want to create prosperous economies and a healthy planet. However, we are facing a key challenge: the alarming $360 billion-dollar annual deficit in gender-equality measures. We need more investment, now and in the future.

Here are five key areas needing joint ACTION:

1. Investing in Women and Girls is a human rights issue and Gender Equality and Equity is a great human rights challenge – and yet they benefit everyone.
2. Ending poverty: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and various conflicts, 75 million more people globally have fallen into severe poverty since 2020. Immediate action is needed to prevent over 342 million women and girls from living in poverty by 2030.
3. Implementing gender-responsive financing: Conflicts and rising prices may lead 75% of countries to cut public spending by 2025, negatively impacting women and their essential services.
4. Shifting to a green economy and care society: We need to shift to a green economy and care society to amplify women's voices and bring more equity and equality to women in today’s economy. And:
5. Supporting feminist change-makers: Despite leading the efforts, feminist organizations receive only 0.13% of official development assistance.

This gives you an idea of priorities for joint actions to invest in gender equality and equity, and I would like to emphasise the word ‘joint’ – because these tasks are not for women and girls alone, but are the joint responsibility of all of us, men and women, boys and girls.

This day is a chance to reflect on how far Australian society has come in terms of gender equality, and how far it still needs to go. It serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing to fight for the rights of all women, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their contributions recognized and valued in all spheres of life.

As Patron of the United Nations Association of Australia – Northern Territory Division, I welcome you all to the International Women’s Day Walk for 2024. Let us walk together, and then Act together.

Darran’darra Damung-gwa Batji-wa. Good evening everyone

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

I send my respect to the Larrakia People and their Elders past, present and future. In doing so I extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

It is an honour to take part in the Scout Promise Ceremony, and it is a great pleasure for Ruth and I to host this reception for Founder’s Day, honouring Lord Robert Baden-Powell, who founded the scouting movement in 1907. Paddy Pallin brought Scouts to Australia, I recommend you read his autobiography “Never Truly Lost”.

Reflecting on my time in Scouts, which began around 60 years ago, I'm reminded of the incredible journey of growth and discovery it was: a journey that laid the foundation for the person I am today and has profoundly shaped my life.

One of the most significant gifts Scouting gave me, through amazing leaders, was leadership skills. Through various activities, challenges, and responsibilities, I learned how to lead by example, make decisions under pressure, and inspire those around me. These skills have been invaluable throughout my life, guiding me in personal and professional contexts alike.

Confidence, another treasure I gained from Scouts, was not something I was born with. Instead, it was built through countless experiences in Scouts, from successfully navigating a hike in the bush to mastering a complex knot or leading a team during a hike. Each challenge I overcame was another step towards becoming a more confident individual.

Technical skills were another crucial part of my Scouting experience. Whether it was learning how to light a fire in the rain, read a map and compass, or provide first aid, each skill was a tool, not just for the wilderness but for life. These skills taught me the importance of preparedness, self-reliance, and resourcefulness.

Perhaps most importantly, Scouts taught me competency in the bush. This wasn't just about survival; it was about developing a profound connection with bush that I learned some of life's most valuable lessons about perseverance, respect, and humility.

To the young Scouts here today, I want to say this: the journey you're on is about so much more than badges and camping trips. It's a journey that will challenge you, change you, and equip you with a set of skills and values that will guide you for the rest of your lives. Embrace every moment, every challenge, friendship and every opportunity to learn and grow.

To the leaders, parents, and supporters of the Northern Territory Scouts, thank you. Your dedication and commitment are what make this incredible life changing journey possible for so many young people.

As I look back on my time in Scouts, I'm filled with gratitude for the adventures I had, the friends I made, and the lessons I learned. It was an experience that shaped my character, built my confidence, and instilled in me a love of the outdoors that has lasted a lifetime.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you tonight. Let's continue to support and inspire the next generation of Scouts as they make their own journeys of discovery, leadership, and growth.

Thank you.

I would now like to welcome Mr Andrew Williams, Acting Chief Commissioner of Scouts NT to the lectern.

Darran’darra Damung-gwa Batji-wa.

Good evening everyone

Distinguished guests all,

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

I send my respect to the Larrakia People and their Elders past, present and future. In doing so I extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

Ruth and I are pleased to welcome you here this evening. I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude for the tireless effort and dedication you have demonstrated in your important roles, fostering understanding and cooperation across our community.

Remember, the role of the Consular Corps and cultural groups extends beyond representation; you also play a crucial part in fostering international ties and promoting cultural exchange.

Given the diverse culture of the Northern Territory your work and commitment is so very important as you represent your various nations and groups with pride. We acknowledge and thank you for your commitment.

And now I invite you to please enjoy the hospitality of Government House.

Darran’darra Damung-gwa Batji-wa. Good evening everyone

Ngana ludju nganigi respect to the Gulumerrdjin biyilirra and their Darriba Narri gudlagwa, yilanggwa and nimangwa.

– and extend that respect to all First Nations people present.

I would also like to acknowledge the Right Worshipful the Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis and the Chair of the Christmas in Darwin Association, Ms Katrina Fong Lim.

It is such a pleasure for Ruth and I to host this reception to thank the sponsors and volunteers of Carols by Candlelight. For me, it is the closing parentheses from my first meeting with your concert producers in July to see how I could support you in my role as Patron of Carols by Candlelight.

This is to say we are celebrating and thanking you not just for one night, but for all the time, commitment and resources that went into the event for days, weeks and months – and for some of you – work over the whole year leading up to the carols.

Let me remind you of this year’s success. Five thousand people attended the 2023 Carols by Candlelight on Sunday, the 3rd of December. All 139 performers are volunteers, and were ably supported by the Band of the first Brigade for the 48th edition of the concert. The Variety Children’s Charity NT collected $4,000 at the gates, and the Down Syndrome Association also received $500.

None of this would be possible without the hard work and commitment of the volunteers, which includes all of the Christmas in Darwin Association committee, and the support of the sponsors. You have been generous with your time and resources, and you made the night a rousing success.

Ruth and I have fond memories already of singing with the choir and congratulate you on fulfilling the association’s objective: to bring the Christmas Spirit to Darwin. The world is passing through a difficult time at present. All occasions of community, harmony and peace are to be celebrated, wholeheartedly.

On behalf of Ruth and I, and all of those who have attended Carols by Candlelight past and present, I thank all of the volunteers and sponsors for your wonderful work, dedication, commitment and Christmas spirit. Thank you!

Please enjoy yourselves this evening.

I now invite Ms Katrina Fong Lim to the lectern.

Darran-darra Men-egg-gwa Batji-wa.

Good morning everyone, distinguished guests all.

It is my honour to be here today to commemorate the Bombing of Darwin.

Ngahnah oodjoo ngahn-eegee respect to the Larrakia beeyeeleerrah and their Dahrr-eebah Nahrree, Yeelahng-gwa and neemahn-gwah

I pay my respect to the Larraka People and their Elders past, present and future.

I wish to pay my respects to all those who have served, or are currently serving, on the frontline – defending Australia’s interests and supporting peacekeeping efforts across the world – as well as to pay respect to their families and also acknowledge their sacrifices.

We observe the relics of the Bombing of Darwin, in our suburbs and streets every day. As Territorians, we pass the repurposed air strips, aircraft hangars and historic buildings, as we travel across our vast Northern Territory, up and down the Stuart Highway – a legacy itself of the war and a reminder that all parts of the Territory contributed to the war effort.

As I walk along the Esplanade between my home at Government House, and my office I acknowledge how important it is that we take this opportunity every year to stop and reflect on what these artefacts mean. We remember the lives lost and sacrifices made – and to acknowledge the thousands of people who put their lives on the line.

These included the army, navy and air force members on the frontlines; the reservists and civilians, both conscripted and voluntary, who supported defence efforts; the Tiwi people radioing through to Darwin forces about the imminent strikes; and the thousands of civilians who stepped up to defend, assist and rebuild Darwin.

As I reflect on this day, I am reminded of what has not changed in our community: our unity and closeness to one another, and our resilience. No other place in Australia is like the Northern Territory or Territorians. Often, we meet and can chat with our government and defence members in and out of uniform; our children attend the same schools and are on the same sporting teams together.

Sadly, this may also mean we are one degree of separation away from someone impacted by conflicts and war – suddenly what seemed so distant is now so close. I was reminded of this late last year when Ruth and I visited the Australian War memorial in Canberra. We watched on as a member of my team placed a poppy on the wall of remembrance in honour of a young family member lost to the conflict in Afghanistan.

As we reflect on the Bombing of Darwin, we can also trace a line from the past to the present. All the world is affected by war: now, 82 years ago, in between and before that. I think we can all join together collectively in hoping, wishing for peace.

I wish to pay tribute to every person and every family, on all sides, who have been touched by the many conflicts around the world in the past and at this very moment. We are eternally grateful for your sacrifices. Peace on Earth.

Darran’darra Damung-gwa Batji-wa. Good evening everyone.

Distinguished guests and all of our honoured guests here this evening.

I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians on whose land we walk and meet this evening: the Larrakia or Gulumirrgin, the Saltwater People. I extend my heartfelt, respectful greetings to their Elders – past, present and emerging – and their community. I thank the Larrakia for their care of these beautiful lands for millennia. I also pay my respect to all First Nations people present.

This ceremony is very special to me, as last year it was the first event I attended as the Administrator of the Northern Territory. Ruth and I are so pleased to join you again for the Northern Territory Board of Studies Awards.

The Northern Territory is a special place, one which I hope many of you will continue to call home for many years to come. Those of you who do leave, I know you will carry the Territory’s unique and timeless light with you wherever you go. But regardless of whether you stay or go, the Territory has been proud to have you here while you completed your schooling.

Tonight I have the privilege of awarding the Administrator’s Medals of 2023 to two outstanding young Territorians. Though most of the students being awarded tonight have now completed their schooling, the Administrator’s Medals instead celebrate students earlier in their learning journey.

The Administrator’s Medals, which have been presented for almost 30 years, starting in 1994, are awarded to a year 6 and a year 9 student every year. They are awarded for excellence academic achievement, outstanding behaviour and citizenship.

In terms of academics, the winners of the award tonight have very ably shown that they are excelling in their studies, setting themselves up for further success in their next phase of schooling.

The personal conduct the winners have displayed has been judged to have been exemplary, setting an example for others to follow.

In citizenship, too, our winners have distinguished themselves, showing leadership in their schools and in their communities.

For our Administrator’s Medal winners here tonight, one in primary school and one in middle school, Year 12 can seem like a long way away. The reality is that it is much closer than you think and will be upon you before you know it.

I am proud to present the Administrator’s Medals to you tonight.

The 2023 Administrator’s Medal for Primary Years Scholar recipient is Miss Alishia Buyong of Manunda Terrace Primary School. Alishia has received the Ngaree Ah Kit Literacy Award three times and is an outstanding performer and learner in nearly every field. She is School Captain, a natural leader and shares her customs, traditions and connections with the Larrakia people with her school community. She is modest, and a wonderful role model for her peers and family. Alishia, we are very proud of you.

The recipient of the 2023 Administrator’s Medal for Middle School Scholar is Miss Hannah Baczynski of Sanderson Middle School. Hannah is a gifted and talented high achiever, a straight-A student, dux of the school, and achieved her Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. She is creative, confident and empathetic. Hannah is an active volunteer and participant in community initiatives, sport, events and performances. Hannah, your passion and compassion will serve you well in the future. Congratulations.

To both of you, the way you have achieved academically, conducted yourself personally, and have been active and leading citizens shows you are on a good path for success.

**PAUSE**

To all of the award winners here tonight, congratulations, you are the pride of the Territory. We recognise and celebrate your hard work and effort over multiple years and wish to you all the best in whatever you do.