Media release

A TAFE NSW educator has been recognised for leading the way in the revival, teaching and preservation of Aboriginal languages.

Aunty Terrie Lowe is a proud Bundjalung Elder from Grafton and has been a TAFE NSW employee for the past 13 years. She has spent her career ensuring Aboriginal language education is both accessible and culturally appropriate. Much of this involves shaping nationally recognised qualifications that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Yesterday, Aunty Terrie won the Bruce Kendall Award for Recognition of Service at the 35th annual TAFE NSW Gili Awards ceremony. These prestigious awards celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff. They also recognise the partnerships and programs that support self-empowerment and life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.

Aunty Terrie works as a Product Manager in TAFE NSW’s Aboriginal Languages team. In this role, she has pioneered the development of training programs designed to be adaptable to any Aboriginal language across Australia. Her work has revolutionised the approach to Aboriginal language education and strengthened opportunities for students and communities to connect with their linguistic heritage.

Aunty Terrie’s expertise has been instrumental in shaping accredited qualifications in the Certificate I, Certificate II, and Certificate III in Aboriginal Languages. She has also influenced specialised programs, including the Certificate III in Vocational and Study Pathways (delivered through the IPROWD program), the Certificate III in Mentoring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, and the Diploma in Aboriginal Studies for Professional Practice.

She also works alongside Aboriginal community language centres, volunteering her time to support language delivery programs and mentor educators.

TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read, praised Aunty Terrie’s transformative work and leadership.

“Aunty Terrie has contributed so much to TAFE NSW and its students. She is a passionate leader and advocate whose dedication to Aboriginal language revival has empowered countless students and strengthened several of our education initiatives,” she said.

“Aunty Terrie’s work has contributed greatly to transforming the way Aboriginal languages are taught and preserved, and helps ensure Aboriginal voices remain strong across the state. Her efforts to champion and empower the next generation of educators and language custodians have been incredibly valuable. She continues to help pave the way to cultural connection for students, educators, and communities.”

Media contact: Rob Virtue, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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