'NAIDOC has always been more than a single week. It is a platform for truth-telling, a celebration of identity, and a statement of continuity. Today, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are leading change across every field. From health and education to media, business and the arts - telling their own stories, in their own way, on their own terms.'
Source: https://www.naidoc.org.au/news/naidoc-launches-2026-theme-50-years-deadly-marks-major-milestone
Dillon's story
Dillon Aldridge, a proud Yuin/Kamilaroi man living and working on the Far South Coast with Bega Valley Shire Council, shared his perspective with us on opportunities for Aboriginal professionals working in the water sector.
Dillon attended Ozwater'26 in Brisbane as the successful recipient of our AWA Ozwater Conference Attendance Award.
Young Water Professionals
Dillon:
I applied to attend due to my strong interest in further developing my knowledge of the water industry and exploring opportunities to engage in broader aspects of water management.
I was particularly interested in interactive programs such as the Young Water Professionals program, as well as the innovative and sustainable solutions presented by industry suppliers and organisations.
Our Water. Our Tomorrow.
Dillon:
The event theme, “Our Water. Our Tomorrow.”, was consistently reflected across keynote presentations, panel discussions, and technical sessions.
I found the program both relevant and forward-thinking, particularly in its focus on sustainability, innovation, and workforce development.
Indigenous youth employment
Dillon:
One of the standout sessions I attended was presented by representatives from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. The presentation highlighted their work in promoting and supporting Indigenous youth employment pathways within the water industry.
The pilot program they have implemented is already demonstrating positive employment outcomes.
As an Aboriginal professional working in this sector, I found this especially meaningful and encouraging.
Conversations
Dillon:
The exhibition hall provided valuable opportunities to engage directly with suppliers and industry leaders. With my background in network operations, transition into project management, and commencement of my engineering degree, I found these discussions highly beneficial.
Several conversations resulted in follow-up enquiries that may positively influence current and future projects I am managing.
Final words
Dillon:
Attending Ozwater'26 has had a significant positive impact on my professional development.
Experiencing the water industry from a national and holistic perspective has strengthened my commitment to contributing meaningfully to the sector.
It has also reinforced my motivation to continue promoting sustainable practices and to support the development of a stronger, more inclusive water industry for future generations.
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Please visit our awards page for more information about the AWA Ozwater Conference Attendance Award.
Photo (left to right): Corinne Cheeseman (CEO, Australian Water Association); Dillon Aldridge (Project Officer, Bega Valley Shire Council); Brendan Guiney (EO, NSW Water Directorate); and Kevin Werksman (CEO, SUEZ Australia & New Zealand and President, Australian Water Association).