More than 1,150 people packed the ballroom for the 2025 Ross Kelly Cup Dinner – Clontarf’s biggest event of the year – held on the eve of the annual NSW carnival. The night brought together academy members, staff, alumni and supporters from across the country to acknowledge the achievements of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and recognise the partnerships that make Clontarf’s work possible.
Now in its 13th year, the Ross Kelly Cup Dinner is a key moment on the Clontarf calendar. It celebrates the young men participating in the carnival while showcasing the impact of the program across schools and communities nationwide.
This year’s dinner was the largest to date, with more than 850 academy members, 150 staff and 150 partners in attendance.
The evening was opened by Bidwill Academy members Connor McWhinney and Robert Owens-Driscoll with a moving Acknowledgement of Country, followed by a warm welcome from Masters of Ceremonies Mustafa Al-Badre and Marty Jeffrey. Both young men are proud Clontarf alumni and played a central role in guiding the audience through the night.
Clontarf Board Member William ‘Smiley’ Johnstone reflected on his pivotal role in bringing Clontarf to New South Wales, emphasising the program’s growth, the importance of shared responsibility, and the impact it continues to have on young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men across the country.
“The Clontarf program is a good example that if we all pull together as Aussies, we can make positive change for Aboriginal lives, families and our country,” Smiley said.
Deputy CEO Craig Brierty delivered the closing address, expressing his gratitude to everyone in the room and the many more who continue to support Clontarf’s mission around the country.
The night concluded with a live performance by country music legend and proud Kamilaroi man Col Hardy.
Many of Clontarf’s long-standing partners were also in the room to meet academy members, share stories and offer encouragement. Suzi Hannan from Qantas said the event left a lasting impression.
“You created a space where everyone felt connected, proud, and reminded of why we do this work,” she said. “It was more than just a dinner — it was a celebration of the relationships that have been built, and the incredible impact the Clontarf program continues to have.”
The Ross Kelly Cup is named in honour of inaugural Chairman, Ross Kelly AM who retired in 2023 after 23 years of service to the Foundation and community.
