Leaders in Victoria's First Nations and wider community have been celebrated at the state's annual NAIDOC Awards.
The winners and nominees' contributions were recognised at the Aborigines Advancement League in Thornbury on Friday.
On 2024's theme, Ms NAIDOC Kaleeah Hardy-Edwards said "we just have to keep passing down our stories and our culture from generation to generation to keep our culture…and traditions alive as well".
Mr NAIDOC, Christopher 'CJ' George, was "rapt" on the news of his win.
"I'm a traditional dancer part of Bandok Tati…that's part of keeping the fire going. That's what I think it is; keeping culture and tradition alive and that's how me and the brother boys do it."
Koorie Academy Basketball founder, chief executive and head coach Ricky Baldwin and Aunty Annie Nikkelson were named Elders of the Year.
Aunty Annie dedicated her win to the "quiet achievers" across the community.
Christopher Hume, a Masters Boxing champion running sessions empowering youth through the sport he loves, was named Sportsperson of the Year.
The 2024 VIC NAIDOC Awards also saw the inaugural representation of their Pride Award for LGBTQIA+ community leadership recognition.
Zee Pepper said it was a surprise, shock and privilege to be handed the honour.
"It means a lot to be seen and heard as someone that considers themselves a bit of a double minority...It's nice to be recognised as part of our community in that way, and be somebody who can hopefully advocate further for our experiences, our services and safe spaces," he told National Indigenous Times.
Prior to winners being announced Victorian Minister for Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said the night recognised a list of deserving nominees while celebrating community and culture.
Minister Hutchins added NAIDOC Week this year is an opportunity for the state to "get on board with Treaty".
"Find out what it's about, make sure you're a part of it if you can be. There's going to be lots of discussion in the next 12 months, and we want to make sure that we've got as many people in the general community supporting the advancement of Treaty."
Upcoming Official VIC NAIDOC 2024 events
Saturday July 6 - Children's Day, Aborigines Advancement League
Monday July 8 - Flag Raising Ceremony, Federation Square
Thursday July 11 - LGBTQIA+ Pride Gala, Rokeby 100 in Collingwood
Friday July 12 - Vic NAIDOC Match, Victorian Aboriginal Health Service
Saturday July 13 - Vic NAIDOC Gala Ball, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
