Claudia Walton-McDermott.
Camera IconClaudia Walton-McDermott. Credit: Supplied/Supplied.

Perth: WA’s top Aboriginal students recognised with Rob Riley Memorial Prize

Jessica WarrinerEastern Reporter

WESTERN Australia’s top-performing Aboriginal students have been recognised for their achievements with the Rob Riley Memorial Prize.

Named in honour of the late Aboriginal human rights advocate, the award is given to the top Aboriginal students in public schools.

Former Mt Lawley Follow The Dream participant – a program run by the Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer Foundation to educationally enrich indigenous students – and Perth Modern School graduate Claudia Walton-McDermott took out the ATAR prize, and Manea Senior College graduate Chloe Barber was the VET prize winner.

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The pair was presented with their awards at Parliament House by Education Minister Sue Ellery this week.

Ms Walton Mc-Dermott said it was an honour to be awarded the prize.

“I hope that this award inspires other indigenous students to achieve academically and pursue their dream careers,” she said.

“In terms of my long term-career goals, I would like to achieve my doctorate and then begin a residency.

“Ultimately, I want to help people live happier and healthier lives.”

Ms Walton Mc-Dermott attributed her success to the study techniques developed at school along with her support network of family, friends and the Follow The Dream group.