The National Indigenous Sports Awards celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence over the weekend, shining a spotlight on athletes whose courage, leadership, and cultural pride inspire communities across the country.
The evening’s most powerful moment came when Lydia Williams was named this year’s National Trailblazer Award recipient.
A proud Noongar woman, Williams has spent more than two decades at the elite level, earning 104 caps for the Matildas, representing Australia at five FIFA World Cups and multiple Olympic Games, and becoming the first Aboriginal goalkeeper to play for the national team.
On stage, Williams reflected on the significance of the award.
“I guess you don’t really think about winning awards like this as an athlete,” she said.
“You really go out there to compete, be the best you can, and win trophies with your team. To even be considered for an award like this is a huge honour.”
Williams spoke about her journey off the pitch as well.
“What I’ve done on the pitch is just a small glimmer of what I’m doing off the pitch.
"Once you think your career has ended as a sports person, it really is just the beginning of your journey - how you can make it an even better place for the youth that’s coming up,” she said.
She paid tribute to her parents for instilling in her pride and resilience.
“My dad taught me what it means to be black and proud and accepting everyone without judgement, and my mum has supported me throughout my whole career and still makes sure I’m moving forward.”
Williams reflected on the responsibility of her role and the importance of paving the way for the next generation of Indigenous athletes
“I actually consider it an accountability marker and the highest recognition that my hard work is paying off.
"Being a trailblazer means clearing the branches and breaking barriers so the ones coming through next have one less hurdle.
"Every scratch, stumble, and barrier means one less obstacle for the young people following.”
The night also recognised Tamika Upton as National Sportsperson of the Year.
A proud Barada woman, Upton has dominated the NRLW, winning premierships with the Newcastle Knights before returning to captain the Brisbane Broncos to the 2025 championship.
Her third straight Dally M Medal cemented her status as one of the greatest players in the game’s history.
In a pre-recorded acceptance speech, Upton apologised for not being able to attend but said she was deeply honoured to receive the award.
“I just want to say what an honour it is to receive this award. It’s such a privilege - I’ll hold it very close to my heart.
"I want to thank everybody for the support throughout the year. I know I’ve got a big mob back home that’s very proud of me, so I can’t wait to get back home.”
Wiradjuri tennis legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley was honoured with the National Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising her extraordinary career - including seven Grand Slam singles titles and a 1980 Wimbledon victory as a young mother - as well as decades of mentorship inspiring young First Nations athletes through national development camps and Indigenous programs.
The ceremony also celebrated emerging talent and community achievements.
Surfing prodigy Landen Smales was named National Junior Sportsperson, while Katelyn Smith was recognised as National Sportsperson with a Disability.
Other awards acknowledged contributions across the sporting landscape, including the Coastal Emus Olympic Team Maclean as National Senior Elder Sportsperson, the Arrernte Community Boxing Academy as National Community Sporting Organisation, the Murri Rugby League Carnival as National Sports Competition, James Dean as National Sports Official, the Fitzroy Stars as National Sports Team, April Le Suer as National Volunteer, and Charlie King as National Sports Media.
The awards highlighted the strength of community, culture, and mentorship in sport.
Organisers announced that next year’s ceremony will be held on Gadigal Country in Sydney, continuing the celebration of First Nations excellence and inspiring the next generation of athletes.
From the pitch to the court and the tennis arena, the achievements of Lydia Williams, Tamika Upton, and Evonne Goolagong Cawley reminded everyone why these awards are not just about trophies - they are about courage, leadership, and pride in culture.
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