The Northern Territory Commissioner of Police and CEO Fire and Rescue Service, Reece P Kershaw APM, has congratulated Police Senior Aboriginal Community Police Officer (ACPO), Bettina Danganbarr for being one of the 2018 Australia’s Local Hero finalists.

Late last year, Bettina was presented as the Northern Territory (NT) recipient of this prestigious award and last night, at an exclusive event hosted at Parliament House in Canberra, she was recognised as a finalist as part of the Australian of the Year Awards.

Commissioner Kershaw said the Australian of the Year Awards are amongst the most prestigious honours bestowed upon Australians, and having a PFES representative was a great privilege.

“The Australian of the Year Awards celebrate the achievements and contributions of the most exceptional group of Australians and the NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services are very pleased to have a member of our team honoured in this way,” Mr Kershaw said.

“I also acknowledge Bettina’s mother, Kathy Guthadjaka, who was awarded the NT Senior Australian of the Year for her work preserving traditional knowledge. This is the first time that a mother and daughter have both received an award.”

ACPO Danganbarr was acknowledged for her work in the East Arnhem community of Galiwinku and also to her commitment to community as a Yolgnu leader.

She has been instrumental in the development of the Galiwinku Women’s Space and is admired throughout her community as a peacemaker and campaigner for the rights of women.