Winners of the PAC Australia’s IMPACT Awards have been announced, with Rhoda Roberts AO receiving the highest accolade—the Wendy Blacklock Industry Legend Award.
PAC Australia is the national peak body for performing arts centres, presenters and producers across Australia.
Its annual national awards celebrate performing arts leadership and excellence, with a focus on impact on communities and the broader performing arts sector.
The Wendy Blacklock Industry Legend Award acknowledges exceptional, longstanding contributions to the performing arts field by an individual or organisation. It honours the illustrious career and the services of Wendy Blacklock AM, who was a pioneer of national touring and founder of Performing Lines.
Ms Roberts is a Widjabul Wiyabal woman from the Bundjalung territories. She is a highly respected and accomplished arts executive and Vivid Sydney's First Nations Advisor.
She received an AO for distinguished service to the performing arts, leadership, advocacy and promoting contemporary Indigenous culture. In 2019, she was recognised with a Ros Bower Award from the Australia Council; in 2018, she received the The Sue Nattrass Award at the Helpmann Awards and in 1998 she received a Deadly Award for Broadcasting.
PAC Australia’s Executive Director Katherine Connor said: “Woven throughout a career traversing performing arts, media and major events, shaping festivals and pioneering roles in major cultural institutions, her leadership and advocacy forged the pathway for the presentation of First Nations work to be presented as essential practice.
"Alongside her support of artists and creating platforms for the development of their work, Rhoda continues to be influential in broader sector issues, such as workforce development, supporting First Nations arts workers to develop longevity in careers in presenting and touring. Rhoda is a true innovator who continues to lead with wisdom and passion.”
