CASM lecturer wins award

Achievement

A lecturer with the University's Centre for Aboriginal Studies in Music (CASM), Peter Nyaningu, has received a national award for his significant contribution to indigenous peoples through education and community work.

Peter (pictured) was honoured with an Indigenous Elders Award at the national conference of the Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council in Perth last September.

Peter is an elder, traditional land owner and song owner, and an influential member within the Pitjantjatjara community. He has been teaching traditional stories, songs and dances at CASM, and has also been sharing his vast knowledge of traditional beliefs and practices.

His relationship with CASM began in 1997, providing leadership and guidance, along with Inawinytji Williamson, within the traditional music and dance teaching program at CASM.

"We are just so delighted and so proud for Peter. He richly deserves this award," said CASM's Academic Programs Coordinator, Jenny Newsome.

"Peter has tirelessly supported the teaching of traditional knowledge and performance in CASM over the past years, both through his leadership and teaching in the University, and also in the Lands, where he has facilitated the annual CASM 'inma' program.

"CASM students and staff this year had the great honour of visiting Peter in his homeland at Ngarutjara, the heartland of the ngintaka (perentie) story and song line in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Lands.

"Peter is greatly loved in his special role at CASM, and is known affectionately as CASM 'tjamu' (grandfather). He is a true inspiration to both students and staff alike," she said.