Councillor Kaye Thurlow has been appointed as a Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia, in recognition of her remarkable dedication and service to the Indigenous community of East Arnhem Land. This prestigious honour celebrates her lifelong commitment and significant contributions to the region.

Following are the few highlights of her lifetime of work for the people of East Arnhem Land.

East Arnhem Regional Council:

• President, 2018-2021.
• Deputy President, 2022, 2017-2018 and 2010-2012.
• Councillor, Gumurr Marthakal Ward, since 2008.
• Former President, Latitude 12 Committee.
• Former Executive Committee Member, Local Government Association of the Northern Territory (LGANT).
• Representative Member, LGANT.
• Former Secretary, Galiwin'ku Community Advisory Board.
• Former Member, Galiwin'ku Local Reference Group.
• Member, Galiwin'ku Local Authority, current.
• Member, Galiwin'ku Housing Reference Group, current.
• Representative Member, Northern Territory Place Names Committee, current.

Shepherdson College (formerly Elcho Island Mission School):

• Principal, 2006-2007.
• Assistant Principal, 1997-2001, and 2003-2005.
• Founder, Senior Yolngu Management Team, 1999.
• Teacher, 1969-1975.

Milingimbi School:

• Principal, 1994.
• Assistant Principal, 1992-1997.
• School Librarian, 1991-1992.
• Teacher-Linguist, 1985-1988.

Education:

• Teacher, Lajamanu School (Hooker Creek School), 1983-1984.

Cultural Preservation:

• Initiated the update of Galiwin'ku community genealogical records in coordination with Galiwin'ku Community Inc, 2002.

Her work has made a lasting impact on the Indigenous community, and this well-deserved recognition is a testament to her unwavering dedication. The public extends heartfelt congratulations to Councillor Kaye Thurlow for this prestigious achievement.