Celebrating the Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy

Published on Friday, 18 July 2025 at 3:23:00 PM

Under the theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” we came together in Derby to celebrate our young people, their pride, their potential, and their powerful place in our community.

What unfolded was more than just a ball. It was a celebration of culture, connection, and collective support, a night filled with joy, laughter, and pride as we honoured the next generation and the community standing beside them.

This unforgettable event was made possible by the many hands and hearts who came together to make it shine. To every sponsor, volunteer, speaker, and supporter - thank you. This night belonged to our youth, and your support helped make it truly special.

Major Sponsors & Donations

We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors and donors:

NAB – for your incredible donation of ball gowns, accessories, and a $2,000 contribution via Maureen O’Meara’s networks.
Woolworths Derby – for providing drinks, water, and vouchers for our guests.
Kimberley Home & Electrical – for your generous voucher support.
Mesa – for helping suit up our young men.
Rachel Radcliffe & the AHCWA team – for donating suits, accessories, and offering ongoing support to our team and young people.

Community & Event Partners

Our heartfelt thanks also go to the following community champions:

Shell Derby Fuels – AJ and crew – for the delicious catered meal.
WKRP – for the beautiful cake and cupcakes that added sweetness to the night.
6DBY Larrkardi Radio – Luke and Jody – for providing the music, sound system, and projector setup.
Sporties (Sportsman’s Club) – Kerry Leamy, Kelvin & Gayle Harvey – for generously providing the venue.
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley – for your continued community support.
Gerti O’Meara – for your expert advice, coordination, and steady support.
Maria O’Connell – for capturing the spirit of the evening through photography.
ENAC – Alex, Marika, and Nicole – for standing with us and supporting this journey.

Ceremony, Culture & Speakers

Glenys Benning – for delivering a heartfelt Welcome to Country that grounded the event in culture and strength.
Floyd Churnside – for being a brilliant and warm MC who kept the night flowing with care.
Guest Speakers & Award Presenters: Tamara Clarkson and Commissioner Jeff Gooding from the Shire, and community leaders Huria (Hoozie) Chapman and Antonia Buckle.
Shakira, Sarah & Hayley – for creating the stunning hand-painted award plates that were rich with meaning and beauty.

Community Contributions

A heartfelt thank you to the many community members who donated formalwear, accessories, and other items in the lead-up to the ball. Your kindness helped our young people feel confident and celebrated — every small gesture made a big difference.

Special thanks to Deb Donation and her mob for making the journey from Kupungarri and ensuring your young people could be part of this unforgettable celebration. Your presence made the event richer and more meaningful for everyone.

The Heart Behind the Scenes

To our dedicated teams who brought this vision to life:

DAHS Population Health – Rohoni, Shanelle, Steph & Emma.
Pam, Rhonda, Sarah, Nelly, Aria & John – thank you for jumping in wherever you were needed.
The incredible SEWB team – your vision, dedication, and community spirit made this event what it was. You went above and beyond for our young people, and we’re so proud of the space you created.