The Community Elders Honour Roll is a new initiative developed by Moree Plains Shire Council to recognise local elders’ contributions to reconciliation and the Moree community.

A total of 44 people, including some who are no longer with us, are now recognised on the honour roll.

Moree mayor Katrina Humphries announced the 2017 recipients at a special ceremony for tthe opening of Reconciliation Week at Moree Plains Shire Council’s Banquet Hall.

“This honour roll is our way of acknowledging some of those elders who have made our town what it is today,” she said.

“These elders have contributed in many different ways. There are well-known local identities and unsung heroes. They are male, female, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal. Some of them have led the fight for social justice and equal rights for our Aboriginal residents. Others have dedicated their lives to caring, teaching, or providing employment. 

“What they all have in common is a tireless dedication to making Moree a better and more harmonious place for all of our residents.”

One of the elders recognised was Kevin Duncan who was the first Aboriginal person in Moree to qualify as a carpenter in the 1950s, and in doing so directly challenged the segregation laws of the time.

Mr Duncan built his own home in Moree, once again defying segregation laws. Throughout it all, he was supported by his wife Coral, who was also nominated for the honour roll for her work in challenging racism and segregation.

“I feel very proud,” Mr Duncan said.

“I was born here 80 years ago, I’m a retired carpenter and built many a barn. I worked a 100-mile radius out of Moree with a lot of good old carpenters.

“I’m very proud to live in this town and build homes for our people.”

Another elder named on the honour roll is Noeline Briggs-Smith OAM who co-founded the Dhiyaan Indigenous Centre in 1995 and has published three books about Aboriginal history.

“It’s a privilege,” she said of the accolade.

“I was rather perturbed in one way because I don’t reall go in for a lot of these awards or nominations but it was wonderful to receive recognition.

“After being in a tin hut at the largest top camp in Moree, I feel today that when I look back, I have accomplished something for my people, which I’m still doing.

“I feel honoured, really honoured.”

Each year the roll will be updated, so if you know of any deserving elders, nominate them for 2018.