NT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner Excellence Awards

Aboriginal Health Workers and Aboriginal Health Practitioners are the essential conduit between traditional and western health services. They are critical to closing the health gap by delivering culturally safe, holistic and client focused care in often challenging circumstances and locations.

The awards are an opportunity to showcase outstanding members of these professional groups while recognising and acknowledging the significant contribution they make to their families, communities and the NT healthcare system.

The awards also recognise NT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying qualifications from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care training package. These students are our future workforce.

A special mention to our partners the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, Rotary Club of Darwin Sunrise, United Workers Union, Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory (AMSANT) and the National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners (NAATSIHWP).

Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended!

The recipients were announced at an awards ceremony in Darwin on 28 November 2025.

Award categories and winners

Emerging Aboriginal Health Practitioner - Student

Winner: Roy Farmer, NT Health

Emerging Aboriginal Health Worker – Student

Winners: Reannen Lalara, NT Health and Moses Nielson, NT Health

Aboriginal Health Worker – Urban

Winner: Dennis Dunn, NT Health

Aboriginal Health Worker – Remote

Winner: Shannon Small, Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation

Aboriginal Health Practitioner – New

Winner: Natalie Michelle Williams, Purple House

Highly commended: Leandra Huckstadt-Rankine, Anyinginyi Health Aboriginal Corporation

Aboriginal Health Practitioner – Urban

Winner: Amanda Swan, NT Health

Highly commended: Onika Paolucci, NT Health

Aboriginal Health Practitioner – Remote

Winner: Keleasha Ogden, NT Health

Highly commended: Beatrice Parry, NT Health

Aboriginal Health Practitioner – Specialist

Winner: Terry Guyula, NT Health

Highly commended: Tawhio Mckay, Anyinginyi Health Aboriginal Corporation

Dr John Hargrave Honour Roll

Winners: Iris Raye and Joe Daby