The Derby NAIDOC Ball 2025 proved to be an incredible night showcasing Derby's finest on the weekend.
The night started with a culturally spectacular opening, led by Annie Milgin, Richard Rose, Joseph Milgin, and the Nyikina dancers.
The gathered crowd then moved inside to listen to Tye Jay (Trevor Ishiguchi's) soulful tones as he took centre stage.
MC for the night was Derby man Floyd Churnside, who entertained the audience throughout the evening with his flamboyant energy.
Local bands Running Shot and The Kruisers provided entertainment.
Dinner was served as a piping hot buffet, showcasing delicious Kimberley beef generously donated by KAPCO Beef. A huge selection of dishes was cooked by the team at Zulaybar Cafe.
The awards ceremony and guest speakers section of the evening was opened by Kyra Edwards, young Nyikina woman and chair of the Empowered Young Leaders Aboriginal Corporation, with a powerful and inspiring speech.
The Derby NAIDOC Awards were awarded to the following people, nominated by the community for their outstanding contribution, hard work and dedication to their chosen fields: Female Elder of the year: Lena Fraser-Buckle; Male Elder of the year: Jeffrey Jamieson; Caring for Country and Culture: Shelley Kneebone; and Education: Helen (Jane) Edwards.
Kimberley MP Divina D'Anna was in attendance to close the awards ceremony.
Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation chairman Robert Watson told National Indigenous Times the Derby NAIDOC Ball was "a fantastic display of celebration fitting for NAIDOC week, from the Welcome to Country and dances, the awards and nominations received, to the incredible display of Aboriginal musicians".
Prizes were raffled off during the night, including a Horizontal Falls and Dampier Peninsula Full Day Tour for two worth and a Merch Pack from Pinnacle Travel Group.
Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation thanked sponsors, supporters and members, and said they hope to continue the annual event for Derby and the surrounding areas.
