Speeches
Monday, 25 May 2026
Reception for the Presentation of the Dame Roma Mitchell Scholarships and the Chief Executive’s Reconciliation Awards
In honour of the passing of Professor Peter Buckskin PSM, an exceptional Australian and educator, known to many here, I open this reception with a tribute to his life and legacy.
As you are aware, in the Aboriginal Community “sorry business” is a time to come together to mourn, share grief, to support one other and to honour those who have passed.
Today, I honour him too.
A Narungga man from the Yorke Peninsula, Professor Buckskin was one of the most influential educators of his time.
He was driven by a deep and enduring passion for educational excellence for Aboriginal people.
Throughout his career he taught, led, and advocated at the highest levels.
Among his achievements, he co-designed the Education Department’s Aboriginal Education Strategy an approach that continues to provide guidance and aligns with the spirit of these awards.
He received many honours for his achievements and just before he passed away last week, I was privileged to inform his family that he was to be invested as a Member of the Order of Australia, a fitting recognition of his extraordinary contribution.
In an interview, Professor Buckskin once reflected that his path in life began with a love of school and was nurtured by teachers who believed in him, respected his culture, and held high expectations of his capacity to succeed.
To the Dame Roma Mitchell Scholarship and Chief Executive’s Reconciliation Award recipients here today, I hope you carry forward his aspirations.
Rod and I are delighted to welcome you to Government House for the presentation of the Dame Roma Mitchell Scholarships and Chief Executive Reconciliation Awards.
Dame Roma was an outstanding South Australian, the first female Supreme Court judge, the first female Governor and the first female university chancellor.
Throughout her career, she dedicated herself to social justice, community development and advancing the rights of Aboriginal people.
This was shaped by her upbringing by a mother who lost her husband in World War I and was determined her two daughters would do well in life.
She believed in the power of education; the power to provide opportunities.
Students.
These awards will support you as you complete your SACE and pursue your aspirations.
They are an investment in your future and in the future of our broader community.
I know you are all clearly motivated and determined. You come from many places, including from many schools that Rod and I have visited, but while you have differing aspirations: to do well in the arts, the sciences, education, small business; you share a common pride in your heritage and are all confident learners.
As you move through your studies and careers, you are also in a unique place to continue to share your culture with others.
When we share culture, we build understanding and strengthen the bridges between us.
I thank your teachers, families, and communities for believing in you and being there for you.
I congratulate the Education Department on its stewardship of these scholarships over the past 33 years and its encouragement of students to be proud and confident learners.
As we approach National Reconciliation Week with this year’s theme of “All In!” these awards reflect that shared commitment to reconciliation.
I wish each of the recipients every success.