* CSU Dubbo presented two 2018 CSU NAIDOC Awards * The NAIDOC theme this year is Because Of Her We Can * Today we celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and the active and significant roles they play across the Dubbo region Charles Sturt University (CSU) is proud to be recognising women, as part of the National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) week theme this year, Because of Her We Can.Head of Campus at CSU in Dubbo Ms Cathy Maginnis said, “Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander people have kept the oldest continuing culture on the planet strong and the women have been strong partners with their men in maintaining this cultural connection through generations”.“Today we have celebrated just a few of the women who continue that work in a variety of ways, and are influencing and shaping our community.“We also acknowledge that there are many, many more local women who should be recognised, in addition to those whose stories we shared today.”Two wonderful women were given awards from the Dubbo region including a CSU staff member and key community member.Associate Professor Jay Phillips has shown outstanding leadership in the development of Indigenous cultural competence within curriculum at CSU. She is also the Chair of the Indigenous Board of Studies and has been critical to the cultivation of best practice incorporating Indigenous histories, cultures and contemporary social realities across CSU’s main subjects.Ms Dawn Towney works for the Department of Human Services, working in both Lightning Ridge and Dubbo. Throughout her career Ms Towney has developed a strong connection and networks in Lightning Ridge, Walgett and Dubbo. She speaks openly and honestly with the Indigenous community members when discussing options available to them.Ms Towney is heavily involved in a number of interagency committees, including the Dubbo Koori Interagency Network. The nomination notes, ‘Dawn is a kind empathetic, straightforward individual who strives to create a more inclusive, respectful environment for herself, her kids, and her family and for the community.“Charles Sturt University is so proud to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and community members,” Ms Maginnis said.“It was delightful and an honour to be able to acknowledge and present awards to all these fabulous women who are making an impact across our communities.”