Teacher of Larrakia wisdom honoured in prestigious awards

The experience, knowledge and dedication of beloved Charles Darwin University academic Dr Bilawara Lee has been recognised at this year’s Australia Day Honours. 

Dr Lee, affectionately known as Aunty B around CDU, was acknowledged with the Medal of the (OAM) in the 2024 awards.

Aunty B in her role as CDU’s Larrakia Academic in Residence has 30 years of experience in education and health and has served her community as a communicator, healer, and teacher of Larrakia wisdom, which is thousands of years old.

Respected elder, qualified teacher, linguist and community leader in north-east Arnhem Land Yalmay Yunupiŋu was named the 2024 Senior Australian of the Year in recognition of her dedication to and advocacy for bilingual education. 

In 2005 she was made an Honorary University Fellow of CDU and named Teacher of Excellence by the Northern Territory Department of Education.

CDU Deputy Vice-Chancellor First Nations Leadership Professor Reuben Bolt congratulated the recipients and said the awards were recognition of their incredible contributions to community. 

“Aunty B and Yalmay are extraordinary educators and leaders,” Professor Bolt said. 

“It is more important than ever that we recognise these contributions and celebrate their efforts. They are inspiring the next generation of leaders and changemakers to create a better future for all.”

Professor Grahame Webb was also honoured with an OAM for his world-leading crocodile research. Professor Webb has a long history with CDU and was awarded a Doctor of Science in 2013.