Event Program

Dr Tim McDonald has been the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Y WA since August 2021. He was previously the Executive Director of Catholic Education Western Australia, Associate Professor at Edith Cowan University and CEO of Generation One at Minderoo.

With over 20 years’ experience driving system-wide transformation across education, youth services and community development across Australia, Tim has a clear focus on equity, evidence informed practice, and creating environments where all children and young people can flourish.

Tim has worked with the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) as a subject matter expert on the development of classroom management resources for Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) educators, school teachers and leaders. Tim wrote Classroom Management: Engaging Students in Learning to assist teachers and schools change behaviour with his Positive Learning Framework and works with schools and teachers across Australia to develop safe, calm and predictable classrooms.

Proud Ewamian and Kuku Yalanji man, Bronson Richards, is the founder of Visions of Tomorrow—a fashion label built on sustainability, purpose, and hope for the next generation. At just 25, Bronson has already been recognised with the 2025 NAIDOC Perth Youth Award for his leadership and community impact.

Moving from the rainforest in Cairns to Perth at 14, he forged a career in modelling before turning his creativity toward fashion as a way to tell stories and inspire. His label uses recycled materials, supports youth services, and contributes to reforestation projects, reflecting his commitment to progress with purpose.

Alongside his father, he has helped establish Junbum Resources to create jobs for mob, while continuing to champion land management, heritage, and leadership. A proud participant in the Mr NAIDOC program, Bronson embodies this year’s theme—“The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”—living out his mission to inspire young people and leave a lasting legacy for community.

Trish Hill-Wall is recognised as a Wadandi Pibulmun woman from the Southwest region of Western Australia. She belongs to the Wilmen, Ballardong, Koreang, Minang, and Wadandi language groups within the Nyungar Nation. Trish also maintains strong connections to Wongi (Kalgoorlie) country, Yamagee (Geraldton), and Yawuru country (Broome). As a senior Elder in her community, Trish has participated in Women’s Business, which has entrusted her with the responsibilities of LORE and Kadadjin.