20/12/2022

DCP staff took out two awards at the recent Gladys Elphick Awards, which recognise the achievements of Aboriginal women who work tirelessly to advance the status of Aboriginal people.

Out of Home Care Residential Care Principal Aboriginal Consultant Sasha Houthuysen/Hill, a proud Yamatji/Noongar woman, won the Shirley Peisley Award. The award recognises an Aboriginal woman who is a role model in her professional life, inspires others to be the best that they can be and helps lead organisational change.

Renee Andrew/Coulthard is an Aboriginal Facilitator who delivers Cultural training to DCP staff throughout South Australia and a proud Adnyamathanha/Kuyani woman. She won the Quiet Achiever Award, which honours a woman who leads by example, displays pride and self-determination and respect for culture and respect for others.

Renee’s passion is to educate people about the true history of this country, to start from truth telling and work hard for change within systems to get better outcomes for her people.

Out of Home Care Executive Director Sue Barr congratulated Sasha on her achievement and said she works with children and young people in residential care in a way that inspires learning, reflection and best practice.

“The implementation of the Sanctuary Model has also been further enhanced through Sasha’s artistic talent and support,” Sue said.

“She’s conducted art workshops alongside the Sanctuary team with children and young people to support storytelling, connection to culture and identity.”

Chief Human Resources Officer Billie-Jo Barbara said Renee’s commitment to improving the lives of Aboriginal children and young people is unwavering.

“Renee is one of our critical and talented Facilitators of Learning assisting us to build the cultural capabilities of our workplace and workforce,” Billie-Jo said.

“I’m proud that we have this expertise in our HR team and congratulate Renee on such an immense achievement – I know her Learning, Practice and Professional Development colleagues are super proud too.”

Well done, Sasha and Renee!

Sasha Houthuysen/Hill 
Sasha Houthuysen/Hill 
Renee Andrew/Coulthard
Renee Andrew/Coulthard