Dean identifies as a South Coast NSW Saltwater Yuin, Walbunja, Dhoorga Gurandgi cultural man through his father, and Western NSW Freshwater stone country cultural Wailwan, Nypampai Man through his mother. He was born in Sydney NSW on Gadigal land in 1967.
Dean is a member of the Botany Bay Aboriginal Community and also accepted as belonging to the La Perouse Aboriginal Community. He has also served for two terms (4 years) as a Board Member on the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council and currently remains a member of the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council.
As a Cultural Practitioner, Dean's true passion and cultural obligation is dedicated to the protection and preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage. His cultural knowledge has been passed down through his family for countless generations.
As a professional, Dean work's for the National Parks & Wildlife Service NSW in the role of Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer within the Greater Sydney Branch. In this role he undertakes community consultation and engagement activities including access to country days, cultural camps, and cultural awareness programs. He also provide advice to NPWS staff such as: Directors, Project Managers supervisors.
Dean coordinated National Parks & Wildlife Service Aboriginal Staff within the Greater Sydney Branch and provide them with cultural and professional development skills and opportunities.
He is also a region representative for the Aboriginal Network within the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service. The Aboriginal Network is a voice for Aboriginal people who are employed with the department.
There are numerous Boards and Project Teams within the department that Dean has a seat at the table to provide important input into the department’s processes and planning.
As a community member Dean believe's it’s extremely important to support and give back to community and is involved in the following voluntary work listed below:
- Back to Country Limited – non for profit - Board Member
- Weave Youth & Community Services - Director & Board Member
- NURA GAMARADA – Department of Communities and Justice – Mentor and Program Creator
- Koori Court – Community Panel Member
- Recommendation 125 Work Group Children’s Court NSW – Council Member
- Aboriginal Advisory Council Corrective Services NSW – Advisory Member
- Arts and Culture Waverley Council - Community Advisory Member
“Culture is life, without it we have nothing and become lost”
Natcha tong noongar – through the mother!
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