Seisia resident Talei Elu was named Queensland’s Young Australian of the Year in Brisbane last week. Picture: NADC/Salty Dingo
CAPE York achiever Talei Elu was last week named Queensland’s Young Australian of the Year and will now vie for national honours.
The Seisia woman received a standing ovation as she was presented with her award by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on a night that recognised the contribution of more than a dozen great Queenslanders.
Talei was recognised for her grassroots campaigns in Seisia, including beach clean-ups, lobbying for better telecommunications and organising health and sanitary products for local women.
On the same night, musical prodigy William Barton was named the 2023 Queensland Australian of the Year.
The Kalkadunga man, who grew up in Mount Isa, was the first to integrate the sounds of the didgeridoo with orchestras and classical ensembles.
The overall Australian of the Year winners will be announced in Canberra on January 25 ahead of Australia Day.
