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Amy Rogers - Academic Excellence

Amy is a proud UNSW student and member of the Australian Army’s Intelligence Corps. She has recently awarded the Academic Excellence Award at the UNSW Nura Gili Indigenous Awards.

Originally from the Gold Coast, Amy grew up in a close-knit family with her mother and six siblings. She initially pursued law, studying while working full-time, but her passion for service led her to a career in Defence. She joined the Australian Army in 2018 and has since risen to the rank of Captain.

Currently based in Melbourne with her husband Jarryd, their dog Maizey, and newborn daughter Lucy, Amy has continued her education through UNSW’s flexible online offerings. She says the experience has been both rewarding and practical, allowing her to balance her career, studies, and new motherhood.

Amy remains deeply rooted and connected to her cultural identity, staying involved in community groups and cultural activities where possible. Despite challenges, including frequent relocations and a newborn at home, her academic performance has remained exceptional. 

Wise words from her mum, “always try your best, it might not be the best, but if it’s your best, that’s enough” has been a mantra that has carried Amy through life. Receiving the Academic Excellence Award is a proud moment not just for Amy, but also for her family and community. She hopes her story will inspire other Indigenous women in Defence  and beyond  to pursue further education, and has plans to share her journey through Defence media channels to encourage others to take the leap.

Spirit Award - Shae O'Neil 

Shae, a proud Burramattagal woman of the Dharug Nation, has been named as one of this year’s Spirit Award recipients at the UNSW Nura Gili Indigenous Awards, recognising her commitment to culture, leadership, and community building.

After beginning her studies in veterinary science, Shae found her calling in service. She enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force through the Gap Year program and was later commissioned as a Logistics Officer. Now studying at UNSW Canberra, Shae balances academic life with a strong sense of cultural responsibility.

Raised by her mum alongside two sisters, Shae’s childhood was shaped by frequent relocations due to Defence service, but her connection to Country and community has never wavered. At UNSW Canberra, she plays an active role in First Nations student engagement, helping to organise cultural activities including painting workshops, school outreach, and visits to Darug Country.

Shae is also a dedicated athlete, representing Defence nationally in netball and participating in volleyball and touch football. Outside of sport, she finds balance through painting, weaving, and time spent in nature. 

Shae hopes her story encourages other young First Nations people to pursue their goals confidently, knowing they are supported and their identities are respected at UNSW.

Spirit Award - Shane Collins

Shane Collins, with ancestral ties to the Tubbi-Gah Clan, is a recipient of the Spirit Award at the UNSW Nura Gili Indigenous Awards. Born on Ku-Ring-Gai Country and raised on Darkinjung and Awabakal Country in NSW, Shane’s journey to higher education has been shaped by service, family, and a commitment to culture.

After leaving school in Year 10, Shane became a qualified automotive spray painter before enlisting in the Royal Australian Air Force in 2012. He has since commissioned as an Officer and is currently studying a Bachelor of Business at UNSW Canberra, with aspirations to become a Personnel Capability Officer.

Shane lives in Canberra with his fiancée Jessie and their two-year-old daughter Riley, who keeps them on their toes! His family is his driving force, and a huge motivator for him to persevere through the challenges of study and service life.

A passionate cultural leader within the ADFA community, Shane has fostered inclusive spaces for First Nations students, staff, and allies through the ADFA Community Circle. He regularly facilitates group painting workshops, weaving sessions, and yarning circles, which extends cultural connection beyond rank and uniform.