Wednesday, 4 February 2026

 Cindy McLEISH (Eildon) (09:46): Worawa Aboriginal College in Healesville offers wonderful opportunities for young Aboriginal women across Australia. At last year’s presentation day guests gained an insight into the success of a former student, Mary Cruz Fernandez, who made the most of every opportunity available, including earning her boat licence, which boosted her confidence. Mary grew up in both Darwin and Wurrumiyanga on the Tiwi Islands. Mary is Tiwi mob on her mother’s side and of Spanish heritage on her father’s. She attended Worawa from 2017 to 2021. Since leaving she worked with the Cathy Freeman Foundation in Wurrumiyanga before commencing the Navy Indigenous development program. She spent six months living in Cairns, completing military and TAFE training, gaining valuable skills and independence. She now works in CatholicCare NT, travelling every two weeks to deliver programs to remote communities. She supports the safe house program, creates activities for children and is preparing to run a women’s group on country. She is so impressive – (Time expired)