A new board has been appointed to lead the work of the NSW Aboriginal Languages Trust over the next five years.
The independent board is responsible for guiding the trust to revitalise, strengthen and celebrate Aboriginal languages in NSW.
The inaugural board, appointed for a five-year term in February 2020, has strengthened Aboriginal language revitalisation efforts in NSW, guided by the voices and aspirations of Aboriginal communities across the state, said Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris.
“Since its establishment, the NSW Aboriginal Language Trust has strengthened and celebrated Aboriginal languages in NSW through initiatives such as annual grants and, in 2023, the first ever NSW Aboriginal Languages Week,” said Mr Harris.
“I offer my gratitude to the inaugural board of the Aboriginal Languages Trust. These board members have established a strong foundation for the growth and strengthening of NSW Aboriginal languages into the future.
“I look forward to working with the new board to continue to shape the future of Aboriginal language revitalisation in NSW.”
The newly appointed board, which includes members of the inaugural board, were selected following an independent recruitment process.
The new board members are:
- Catherine Trindall (Chairperson)
- Jason Behrendt
- Dr Ray Kelly
- Raymond Ingrey
- Rhonda Radley
- Rhonda Ashby
- Susan Briggs
To continue languages revitalisation, each board member brings the skills, expertise and experience relevant to deliver on the functions of the Trust, and has appropriate standing in their respective Aboriginal communities, the Government said in a statement.
“I am honoured to be appointed Chair of the NSW Aboriginal Languages Trust Board and look forward to working collaboratively with our new appointees, who will each bring unique perspectives, cultural and linguistic knowledge and professional expertise to championing Aboriginal language revitalisation in NSW,” said NSW Aboriginal Languages Trust newly appointed Chair, Catherine Trindall.
“The inaugural board, who I worked alongside as deputy chair, have been dedicated, visible and trusted advocates for our stakeholders, ensuring the Trust’s establishment was grounded in culture and Aboriginal ways of knowing, doing and being.
“Aboriginal communities in NSW are aiming high and making a powerful impact, delivering a broad range of activities to revitalise, strengthen, share, and speak their languages, reflecting their unique language goals and aspirations. The board is committed to supporting our communities to continue to reclaim, revive and celebrate their languages,” she said.
