14 February 2025
Two aspiring health professionals have been named the highest-achieving Aboriginal graduates of 2024, taking out a prestigious prize.
Duncraig Senior High School graduate Jayda Key and Hedland Senior High School graduate Indyanna Treloar were named recipients of the Rob Riley Memorial Prize 2024.
Duncraig Senior High School graduate Jayda Key.
Jayda was named the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) winner, while Indyanna took out the Vocational Education and Training (VET) prize.
The annual Rob Riley Memorial Prize celebrates the two highest-achieving Aboriginal students in WA public schools and is named in honour of the late Aboriginal human rights advocate.
The winners were awarded a $5,000 prize to further their education and training, along with a copy of Rob Riley’s biography. Both students were also awarded a Certificate of Merit.
ATAR prize winner Jayda is studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at ECU this year and plans to complete a Master of Medical and Health Science by Research in the future.
Jayda said she was in a state of disbelief when she found out she won the award.
“As the initial shock dissipated, I was overwhelmed with appreciation and gratitude in receiving the opportunity to not only represent but to carry on the legacy of a man who dedicated so much of his life to supporting and uplifting people such as myself – something I deeply admire,” she said.
“The Rob Riley prize is profound recognition of the dedication I have put into my schooling and education over the past two years.
“Personally, this award represents the importance of determination, persistence and resilience that is required in maintaining a good work ethic. These values have been instrumental in developing the discipline required not only in reaching my academic goals but also in building the foundation of a successful future.”
Jayda credits her success to the incredible support system she had throughout her schooling years.
“To my teachers whose passion for their subjects shone bright, making classes more than educational but enjoyable and memorable.
“To the Follow the Dream program which provided both educational guidance, as well as unique experiences and opportunities for me to engage with my community and peers.
“And finally, to my friends and family who were always there to support me, offering encouragement and laughter when I needed it the most.
“Following my tertiary education in Biomedical Science, I aspire to pursue medical research, developing modern solutions and innovations to diseases that will improve the lives of people worldwide.
“Furthermore, I wish to share my passion for learning with others, making education not only accessible to all but to be something that we all strive to engage with and appreciate.”
VET winner Indyanna said she was speechless when she found out she had won the Rob Riley Memorial Prize.
“It was so unexpected, and never would I have thought I would receive this award,” she said.
“I credit my success to my hard work and dedication to be the best and most successful I can be in everything I do.
“I also wouldn’t have been able to get here without the immense support from both my family and friends, and the teachers from school that have pushed me to do my best.”
Indyanna is currently working at the Port Authority in Port Hedland before she begins her Bachelor of Nursing studies at the University of Notre Dame later this year. She has also completed a Certificate II in Workplace Skills and a Certificate IV in Preparation for Health and Nursing Studies.
“I aspire to be a registered nurse. I have been accepted into the University of Notre Dame where I will complete a 3-year degree to become a qualified registered nurse, where I will then further my learning to specialise in paediatrics,” she said.
“Once I have completed my studies, I aim to travel and practice nursing in other countries, and use my knowledge to help others.”