Three senior leaders from the Barkly region have been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for their service to the Indigenous community of the Northern Territory, marking a proud moment for the region and its people.
Casey Holmes Akemarr, Frankie Holmes Akemarr and Donald Thompson Akemarr were recognised for lives devoted to culture, country and community. As senior Traditional Owners of Antarrengeny country and respected knowledge holders across the Alyawarr region, the three brothers have played a central role in strengthening cultural authority and community leadership over many decades.
Their work has supported major native title and land claims, strengthened representation through the Central Land Council, and guided Aboriginal men through initiatives such as Codes 4 Life. Alongside this, their contribution to the Alyawarr-English Dictionary, the Alyawarr Picture Dictionary and other cultural resources has helped ensure language and knowledge are preserved and passed on to future generations.
The recognition also carries local significance for the Barkly, with Frankie Holmes Akemarr having been named the 2025 Barkly Regional Council Senior Citizen of the Year. His national recognition alongside his brothers has been described as a moment of shared pride for the region.
Mayor Sid Vashist said the awards reflected a legacy of leadership that continues to shape the Barkly, with younger councillors learning directly from elders whose authority is grounded in culture and responsibility. Emerging leaders, he noted, are carrying forward knowledge and values passed down over generations.
The brothers’ approach to leadership has remained rooted in obligation to land and ancestors. As Frankie said, “caring for sacred trees, waters and country is a responsibility handed down by ancestors, a responsibility they continue to honour every day.”
Their recognition on Australia Day adds national acknowledgement to a lifetime of quiet service, reinforcing the enduring role of elders in guiding both community and country.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
