Henry Atkinson has joined the Aboriginal Honour Roll.
Photo by
Tiffany Garvie
First Nations trailblazers have been recognised for their contributions at the Aboriginal Honour Roll Ceremony, including Echuca’s own Henry Atkinson.
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Uncle Henry was one of 10 artists, advocates and activists inducted onto the 14th Honour Roll by First Peoples Minister Ros Spence.
The newly inducted members will join 158 First Nations Victorians previously recognised for achievements across arts, education, health, sport and community leadership.
Ms Spence said the Honour Roll celebrated individuals whose impact continued to shape communities.
“The Aboriginal Honour Roll is a list of legends who have shaped their communities and Victoria for the better,” she said.
“These trailblazers are prime examples of how First Nations excellence and advocacy make our state stronger.”
Ros Spence inducted Henry Atkinson to the Victorian Aboriginal Honour Roll.
Photo by
Tiffany Garvie
Uncle Henry was recognised for his work as a professor, author and respected leader.
For decades, he has worked on the repatriation of Ancestors, cultural revival and has dedicated his life to protecting First Nations knowledge and culture.
In 2022, he was also named NAIDOC Elder of the Year.
Other inductees were also recognised for their significant contributions, including:
Aunty Margaret Rose Atkinson for decades of service at the Aborigines Advancement League and Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency.
Kylie Anne Belling, the first Aboriginal VCA graduate, founding ILBIJERRI company member and actor in The Sapphires, The Flying Doctors, Prisoner and Redfern Now.
Dr Destiny Deacon, a globally recognised artist, activist, educator, and LGBTIQA+ trailblazer.
Aunty Jemmes Handy, for a lifetime of service across youth programs, community organisations, and justice advisory groups.
Aunty Helen Morgan, who served for decades in Aboriginal health and community in the Bairnsdale region.
Uncle Joel Wright, inaugural producer for ABC’s Speaking Out, and advocate for justice, culture and language.
Aunty Annette Xiberras, archaeologist, unionist, proud gay woman and one of Victoria’s first cultural heritage officers.
Felicia Dean, Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative chief executive, with more than 25 years’ service to her community.
Aunty Daphne Yarram, advocate for women’s voices in First Nations policy, and driving force behind Yoowinna Wurnalung Healing Service.
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