RECOGNISING the powerful contributions of inspiring women across the community, the Victorian Honour Roll of Women has inducted over 750 trailblazers, change agents, emerging leaders and local champions since its inception in 2001, marking not only their excellence in leadership, but their significant impact in their fields and communities. By celebrating achievements in areas like science, arts, environment, law, and social justice, the Honour Roll not only acknowledges the achievements of these inductees but serves as an inspiration for future generations, highlighting the essential role women play in shaping our society.
Born at the Mooroopna Base Hospital and later attending St Brendan’s Primary School, academic director of Indigenous Research at La Trobe University, Professor Julie Andrews OAM, was one of the 21 new inductees to join the Honour Roll on October 16, following an announcement ceremony held at the Arts Centre Melbourne.
A respected First Nations scholar, Professor Andrews was honoured as a Trailblazer for her outstanding contributions to Victorian Indigenous history. Exploring Indigenous migration, identity and community development through her research, her cultivation of research partnerships with Indigenous communities has not only amplified Indigenous voice in academia but has inspired future generations of scholars. Her course, Encountering Aboriginal Victoria: Parallel Systems of Knowledge, focuses on the histories and contemporary narratives of the Yorta Yorta people in Shepparton and the Barmah region and is taught at La Trobe Shepparton campus.
In commenting on her recent acknowledgement, Professor Andrews said, “Personally it means that I have led the way for my community to come behind me, building their confidence to have a go at opportunities that their families never had.
“Professionally, I am recognised by my peers and the wider community for the work that I have done. It is hard to explain to people what you do, so to receive an award helps explain that.
“Much of my work involves community development in higher education and advocating for that inside the community. I now see the outcomes of my work, and this pleases me. I have always worked towards building pathways for my community to come to university and make a difference to their future.
“Education is for everyone, and our people are becoming more confident to participate and become a role model for their family. I am always impressed by the choices the community makes when it comes to studying at a university.
“The choices are so diverse, and it is not all in one area as it once was twenty years ago. It makes me proud to see the increasing numbers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates at La Trobe University Shepparton campus.”
When asked what advice she would give to young scholars aspiring to make an impact in higher education and research, Professor Andrews said,
“My advice is to be patient, consider the opportunities available to you and seek advice from researchers who have a good research background and reputation. You need to have research goals that will benefit you in your career.
“Most important is that your goals are achievable. Good networking skills are also encouraged today, ensuring that you have colleagues that are supportive of your research. You also need to be willing to start at the bottom and work your way up in a respectful way. Do not think you are above washing the dishes or making a cup of tea for an Elder and sitting with them – our Elders know more than you do.”
