Decision details

Moved by Councillor Weldon, seconded by the Chair (the Lord Mayor) –

It is resolved that:

(A)        Council note:

(i)           the annual NAIDOC Awards recognise the outstanding contributions that First Nations Australians make within their communities and beyond;

(ii)         at this years awards, Redfern local and Elder Uncle Charles ‘Chicka’ Madden was recognised as a finalist for Male Elder of the Year;

(iii)        Uncle Chicka has committed his life to the service of the local community and has contributed significantly to the cultural life of Sydney;

(iv)        Uncle Chicka was raised on Gadigal Land and went to Redfern Public School;

(v)         Uncle Chicka met his wife Lily at the old Palms milk bar on Regent Street. They have 4 children, 11 grandchildren and a great grandchild;

(vi)        to support his family, Uncle Chicka worked for the NSW Railway. When he started, it was one of the only places where Aboriginal workers could get employment. He continued as a track worker for nearly 4 decades;

(vii)      meanwhile, Uncle Chicka contributed to the work of many community organisations. He is a lifetime member of the Redfern All Blacks and served as a longstanding Board member of the Aboriginal Medical Service and the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council;

(viii)     a talented artist, Uncle Chicka’s ceramic pottery is held in national collections and the Royal Collection Trust; and

(ix)        Uncle Chicka continues to be a passionate ambassador and advocate for his culture, community and Country. His wisdom, strength, and lifelong dedication are an inspiration to all;

(B)        the Lord Mayor be requested to write to Uncle Chicka, congratulating him on this well-deserved recognition and thanking him for his contributions to the local community; and

(C)        Council congratulates all those recognised at the 2025 NAIDOC Awards, particularly Male Elder of the Year Uncle Harry Phillip Hall and Female Elder of the Year Aunty Rosalie Kickett. Uncle Harry was recognised for his enduring cultural leadership and Aunty Rosalie for her work in mental health and domestic violence support.

Carried unanimously.

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