Celebrating the 2026 MDHS Indigenous Development Staff Award recipients
The Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences (MDHS) Indigenous Development Staff Awards recognised the important work being undertaken across the Faculty to support Indigenous research, education, community engagement and outcomes.
This year’s awards celebrated seven recipients whose work reflects the breadth of contributions being made across MDHS.
Award recipients from left to right: A/Prof Mitchell Anjou, Melanie Schmidt, Madelyne Hudson-Buhagiar, Dr Joanne Luke, Dr Shani Crumpen and Dr Andrea Clarke
Excellence in Early Career Research
Dr Shani Crumpen received the Excellence in Early Career Research Award, nominated by Dr Lucinda Aberdeen.
Shani was recognised for her work in Indigenous data governance, community-led research methodologies and the ethical stewardship of cultural materials. Her leadership across projects at the Algabonyah Research and Impact Centre and Kaiela Institute demonstrates a strong commitment to genuine partnerships with First Nations communities and creating meaningful cultural and community impact.
Excellence in Research
Dr Joanne Luke was awarded the Excellence in Research Award, nominated by Sean Taylor.
Joanne was recognised for her leadership in Indigenous-led research on healthy ageing. Through national partnerships and the use of Indigenous methodologies, her work is helping translate evidence into policy and culturally safe practice and strengthen the national evidence base addressing health inequity.
Professional Staff Excellence
Melanie Schmidt received the Professional Staff Excellence Award, nominated by Nick Walsh.
Melanie was recognised for her exceptional coordination of the MACH Aboriginal Health Showcase 2026. Her work brought together multiple partners and stakeholders to deliver a sold-out event that was seamless, professionally coordinated and culturally respectful, while also helping to build relationships for future activity.
Excellence in Knowledge Translation
Dr Andrea Clarke received the Excellence in Knowledge Translation Award, nominated by Associate Professor Kristen Smith.
Andrea was recognised for her ability to translate Indigenous-led research into policy, practice and education. Her work across Indigenous data governance, curriculum development and community partnerships has contributed to resources, governance frameworks and system-level change used by communities, services and governments.
Excellence in Education
Madelyne Hudson-Buhagiar received the Excellence in Education Award, nominated by Associate Professor Graham Gee and Will Smith.
Madelyne was recognised for designing and embedding First Nations curriculum across multiple years of the Doctor of Medicine program. Her innovative learning and cultural immersion experiences are now accessed by thousands of students, alongside a sustainable tutor model for First Nations health teaching.
Excellence in Community Engagement
Tracey Hearn was awarded the Excellence in Community Engagement Award, nominated by Mariam Hachem.
Tracey was recognised for her foundational community leadership on the FlashGM Study at Rumbalara, including establishing the original pilot, developing culturally appropriate resources and supporting ongoing community governance. Her work has helped the project grow into a multicentre trial while maintaining meaningful community involvement and impact.
Excellence in Supporting Indigenous Outcomes / Allyship
Associate Professor Mitchell Anjou received the Excellence in Supporting Indigenous Outcomes Award, recognising exemplary allyship. He was nominated by Shaun Tatipata.
Mitchell was recognised for his sustained allyship and leadership in transitioning Minum Barreng to Indigenous governance and workforce, supporting First Nations leadership across national eye health initiatives and enabling community-led programs and structural change.
The awards provided an opportunity to celebrate the work of colleagues across MDHS and the contribution they make to Indigenous research, education, community partnerships and better outcomes.
Congratulations to all of the 2026 MDHS Indigenous Development Staff Award recipients, and thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination.