22 March 2022

Ms TRISH DOYLE (Blue Mountains) (17:52): I was honoured recently to stand with Elly Chatfield as she received the Blue Mountains Local Woman of the Year Award. Elly is a renowned artist, actor, poet, mentor and much‑loved and respected elder of the Blue Mountains Aboriginal community. She is a proud Gamillaroi woman, single mother of two, grandmother and highly regarded in her role as Elders support worker at the Blue Mountains Aboriginal Culture and Resource Centre. A child of the Stolen Generation, Elly's life and resilience is an inspiration. She is a skilled educator and environmentalist. Her art is inspired by her connection to land and sense of belonging. As an actor, she has appeared in feature films such as Australia and more recently starred in Smoke Between Trees. Elly is a mentor of First Nations people of all ages. She is a cultural adviser and supports numerous young people and community organisations. She is humble and strong. She is gentle and supportive. Elly has made a significant contribution to the Blue Mountains community and I am honoured to know her. Congratulations, Elly.