2024 SW NAIDOC Youth of the Year

Dakota Rassip

Dakota’s Journey: Strength, Resilience, and Dedication

Dakota’s journey has been one of unwavering determination and dedication. Coming from the Dyirbal / Jirrbal communities of the Western Tablelands in Far North Queensland and Boigu Island in the Torres Strait, Dakota embodies the spirit of our land and its people.

During his high school years, Dakota completed an Aboriginal School-based Traineeship in Community Services, working with JSW Training and Community Services and Isports—programs that empower individuals of all abilities. After high school, Dakota pursued both fitness and civil construction. He commenced his Certificate III in Fitness while undertaking an Indigenous Traineeship in Certificate III Civil Construction with Fulton Hogan Industries Pty Limited. His hard work paid off, and in November 2023, Dakota successfully completed his traineeship. In January 2024, he transitioned to Main Road full-time, assuming the role of Senior Maintenance Supervisor and Crew Leader.

From Bullying to Powerlifting Champion

Dakota’s personal transformation is nothing short of remarkable. Despite facing bullying in his earlier years, he turned adversity into motivation, forging a healthy relationship with food and exercise. Basketball became his passion, and he played for Grace Christian, Eaton Eagles, and Slammers U18s. His studies in nutrition led him to weightlifting and eventually powerlifting. In August 2023, Dakota competed in his first powerlifting competition, winning his weight group and securing third place overall in the Juniors division. He continued his journey by competing in the APU 2023 WA State Classic Powerlifting Championships, where he ranked fourth overall and qualified for Juniors Nationals.

Mentor, Volunteer, and Community Leader

Dakota’s impact extends beyond the gym. As a mentor at Fulton Hogan, he guided new Indigenous trainees, a role he continues at Main Road. His commitment to helping others achieve their dreams is evident in his volunteer work, where he shares his experiences and expertise in powerlifting. Dakota is also studying for dual qualifications—Certificate III and IV in fitness—with the dream of opening his own strength gym. Supported by his fiancé, a qualified nurse and nutritionist, Dakota aims to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous Australians in diet, nutrition, and fitness.

A Beacon of Hope: Suicide Prevention and Leadership

Dakota’s leadership shines brightly in our community. He has been a youth leader in the ‘Diamonds in the Sky’ suicide intervention and prevention annual sports carnival in his hometown of Innisfail, FNQ. His commitment to positive choices extends beyond health; he doesn’t drink or smoke, setting an example for his peers. In the civil engineering and construction field, Dakota stands tall. At just 22 years old, he leads as Senior Maintenance Supervisor and Crew Leader, supporting new Indigenous trainees and fostering growth within his team. His recent participation in the Juniors WA state powerlifting championships showcased his pride in representing First Nations communities.

Conclusion

Dakota Rassip embodies resilience, strength, and leadership. His journey inspires us all to overcome adversity, lift others up, and create positive change. As we celebrate his achievements today, let us remember that Dakota’s story is not just about powerlifting records; it’s about lifting hearts and spirits.

Congratulations, Dakota Rassip, 2024 SW NAIDOC Youth of the Year. May your path continue to inspire generations to come. 🌟🙌🏽🌿