Proud parents were applauding until their hands were sore at the Proud and Deadly Awards, which gives kudos to young Aboriginal achievers.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
There were plenty of those in the room when students from all around the region gathered at Murrumbidgee Regional High School's hall to rake in the accolades.
The awards flowed freely that day, with over 400 certificates, hundreds of medals, and dozens of trophies being handed out.
Ten students were given the highly coveted 'excellent application in all areas' award, which goes to those who exceed in all areas of school life.
One of them was Year 11 MRHS student Zac Bamblett, a Wiradjuri boy and all-rounder who has been excelling in his studies.
"Study is important, but you've also got to stay human," Zac said.
"You need to have time for yourself and look after yourself."
The other nine all-rounders were Kaelan Little, Tyrone Granger, Shamia Davis, Jarrel Williams, Patricia Cooper, Aynsiee Dauth, Isaac Williams, Janae Downey, and Amarni Coe.
Kobe Flint from Lake Wyangan Public School won a grand total of four art awards for his unique drawing style, which drew the attention and admiration of teachers.
'I don't do normal drawings, I do something different to the other kids," Kobe said.
"It's a different strategy, and a bit more hard work."
He's had a passion for drawing since Year 2, and he plans to continue cultivating his unique artistic style throughout his school years.
READ MORE
Griffith East Public School Kindergartener Lilly Wilson won a citizenship trophy after her teachers noticed she had a good heart and a knack for getting along with others.
On one occasion she saw two boys fighting over a toy, and so she gave up her own toy so that she could keep the peace.
Teachers know how rare it is to find that kind of selflessness in a six-year-old, which is why Lilly was the obvious choice for the citizenship award.
There were a host of other awards, including ones for student leadership, sports, Aboriginal cultural engagement, performing arts, and perfect attendance.
Special congrats went to Griffith North Public School debating team, which won the NAIDOC Public Speaking and Debating Challenge.
It was the 17th Proud and Deadly Award ceremony of its kind, and to date over 5000 Aboriginal students have been recognised for their deadly accomplishments.
It was a day of colourful celebration, featuring a inter-school Marrambidya traditional dance, didgeridoo music, and the trademark Clontarf sausage sizzle.
***
While you're with us, did you know that you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Monday at 6am from The Area News? To make sure you're up to date with all the Griffith and MIA news you can sign up here