Narelda Jacobs awarded WMC's scholarship

15/5/98

The daughter of Noongar elder Cedric Jacobs was today awarded a WMC Resources Ltd scholarship to assist in her studies at the prestigious WA Academy of Performing Arts.

Narelda Jacobs is the first Aboriginal student to undertake the Academy's broadcasting course.

She joins four other students in receiving a scholarship under the WMC Aboriginal Arts Sponsorship Awards, now in its second year.

Aboriginal Affairs Minister Dr Kim Hames, who presented the awards at a ceremony at the academy said WMC Resources and the academy could be proud of their track record in identifying and supporting emerging talent in the arts.

"Support such as that shown by both the academy and the company helps ensure Aboriginal people are allowed to make the most of their talent in these areas," Dr Hames said.

"Gaining a place at the academy is no mean feat. It is one of the three most prestigious colleges of its kind in Australia and attracts arts students from around the nation."

The list of past students who are now well-known throughout Australia include 1997 and 1998 gold Logie winner Lisa McCune, Marcus Graham, Hugh Jackman, Brett Partridge and Daina Reid

Dr Hames said there were many Aboriginal people who were also well-known for their talents in the arts fields.

"The individual efforts and determination of Aboriginal artists, actors and writers such as Ernie Dingo, Jack Davis, Jimmy Chi, Sally Morgan, Jimmy Pike, and Richard Walley are an inspiration to all Australians," he said.

"In response to the enormous reserves of talent among Aboriginal people, the academy developed appropriate programs to enable others to make the most of their talent.

"At present there are 30 Aboriginal students enrolled in courses covering visual arts, theatre, musical theatre, jazz, arts management and technical production.

"Much of this is a result of the special effort by the academy in catering for the different needs of some Aboriginal artists, in particular the Aboriginal music-theatre training program which was re-established last year in Broome.

"This program recognises the diversity in Aboriginal cultures and is designed to accommodate the specific needs of the Kimberley community."

Dr Hames said he was impressed by the range of support offered through WMC's sponsorship package.

The WMC Aboriginal artist-in-residence grant provides students with role models to inspire and motivate and the WMC Aboriginal Arts Awards, managed in conjunction with the WA Education Department, targets WA high schools and encourages young Aboriginal students in all aspects of the arts.

The WMC Aboriginal arts scholarships offers $12,000 through five scholarships to those Aboriginal students enrolled in the academy who have demonstrated excellent potential.

Media contact: Caroline Lacy (08) 9424 7450