The awards, announced today, are hosted by the Department for Child Protection (DCP) in partnership with the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN).

Now in their third year, they hold a special place at the end of Child Protection week for honouring the outstanding achievements of children and young people, carers, volunteers, staff and organisations from across the child protection sector.

An incredible 500 people attended the ceremony, held in the Adelaide Oval’s William Magarey Room.

Young Whyalla actor Shantae Barnes-Cowan, who grew up in care, won the outstanding achievement of a child or young person category.

Shantae started acting at the early age of 15 and now, at 20, has featured in a number of films and mini-series. Her latest feature is the critically-acclaimed coming-of-age drama Sweet As.

There were three winners of the Foster Carer of the Year Award. Lisa O’Malley, who has amazingly fostered more than 100 children and young people; Sonia and Brenton Smith from Roxby Downs; and Maxine and Stephen Bowden from Port Pirie.

The Smiths, who have four adult biological children, have been caring since 2009, and are now long-term guardians to two children.

Maxine Bowden, 75, now supported by her husband Stephen, has been caring for children over the past 40 years.

Kylie Stewart and Dwayne Harvey have been honored as joint winners of the Kinship Carer of the Year Award. Dwayne, a single father of five daughters from the mid-North was nominated by his Martinthi Aboriginal Kinship Care support worker for his efforts in caring for his two-year-old niece. She joined his family as an eight-month-old.

Myra Langdon, who signed up to help vulnerable children an incredible 27 years ago, was named Volunteer of the Year for her outstanding service.

Myra’s role was to drive children and young people to and from access visits with family members, or to school and appointments.

Ros Calley, from the Department for Child Protection was recognized for supporting young Aboriginal people to voice their stories and pursue their dreams for the future.

NAPCAN Chief Executive Officer Leesa Waters congratulated the finalists on their achievements.

“It's a privilege to support this ongoing partnership and to help shine a light on the amazing individuals and organisations in South Australia who are working to keep children safe,” she said.

“Protecting children is the responsibility of all of us right across the community, and when we work together we can prevent child abuse and neglect.”

The full list of awards winners can be found here.

For more information on becoming a foster carer, ring 1300 2 FOSTER (367 837), or visit fostercare.sa.gov.au

To register your interest in volunteering, call 0492 000 743 or visit https://www.childprotection.sa.gov.au/volunteers.