At Gilibaa we are incredibly proud of the outstanding achievements of our valued staff member, Pearl — who was recently recognised at the 2024 Port Stephens Council Annual Awards. Her accomplishments not only reflect her personal dedication and talent but also the values and spirit of our Gilibaa family.
Pearl has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Sportsperson of the Year by the Port Stephens Council, recognising her unwavering commitment to the local sporting community. This award celebrates individuals who have provided exceptional service to the local sporting scene or achieved remarkable success in broader arenas.
Pearl’s passion for sport and community shines through her tireless efforts to ensure that children in our area have access to engaging and enriching athletic experiences. Her work extends far beyond coaching; she actively integrates cultural education into sports, creating a holistic and meaningful environment for young athletes.
As President of the Karuah Pearls Netball Club, Pearl has been a transformative leader. Under her guidance, the club has grown into a hub of empowerment, fostering the development of skills, confidence and teamwork. She mentors players, instilling in them the values of resilience and discipline that are crucial both off and on the court.
Through Pearl’s dedication, the young athletes she supports not only thrive in sports but also develop a deeper connection to their culture and community. Her influence is immeasurable, and this well-deserved award is a testament to her impactful work.
We would also like to extend another congratulations to Maddie Lilley, named Young Citizen of the Year. Maddie’s voice — has touched the hearts of many at St Philip’s Christian College Gilibaa. Her beautiful singing in Gathang, has deeply inspired our students. Through her music, Maddie has motivated young people at Gilibaa to further embrace their identities with pride. Her dedication to cultural expression and her ability to inspire others make her a truly deserving recipient of this honour.
These awards highlight the incredible contributions of individuals like Pearl, and Maddie, who go above and beyond to make a difference in their communities. Their achievements remind us of the power of dedication, culture and community spirit.
At Gilibaa, we are deeply honoured to work alongside Pearl and to have community with incredible people like Maddie, who are willing to volunteer their talents to further the bicultural education of our students. Their efforts, reflect the heart of our mission — to nurture and empower the next generation through education, culture and community.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Pearl, Maddie and all the award recipients at the 2024 Port Stephens Annual Awards. You inspire us every day with your passion and commitment.
To view the full list of award recipients, make sure to visit the Port Stephens Council website.
