The winners of the 2018 Rob Riley Memorial Prize have been announced, celebrating two of Western Australia’s top performing Aboriginal students.
Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery today announced Perth Modern School graduate Claudia Walton-McDermott as the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) prize winner, and Manea Senior College graduate Chloe Barber as the Vocational Education and Training (VET) prize winner.
The Rob Riley Memorial Prize is named in honour of the late Aboriginal human rights advocate, and recognises the top performing Aboriginal students in public schools.
Chloe succeeded in all aspects of her school career through excellent time management, organisation and dedication. During her Year 11 and 12 studies, she completed four VET courses including allied health, preparation for nursing education, business administration, and basic health care.
She is completing the Aboriginal Orientation course at The University of Western Australia, before undertaking her Biomedical Science degree next year.
Claudia is currently travelling on her gap year, with the intent to return to Australia to pursue studies towards becoming a doctor.
She attributes her success to the study techniques developed at school and her personal support network of family, friends and the Follow the Dream group.
As noted by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“I congratulate both students on their tremendous success.
“Claudia is a highly successful student and I look forward to following her journey to become a doctor.
“Chloe’s work ethic has laid a strong foundation for her future and she will undoubtedly succeed in her academic pursuit in biomedical science.”
As noted by Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
“Receiving the Rob Riley Memorial Prize is a great honour for any Aboriginal student. Rob Riley was a prominent Aboriginal activist who advanced indigenous issues in Australia.
“Both Claudia and Chloe should be proud of their dedication and hard work, and I wish them all the best for their bright future ahead.”
