Congratulations to Rachel Bin Salleh!

On Feburary 6, Rachel Bin Salleh was awarded the inaugural WA Literary Lions Medal for her commitment and contribution to West Australian literature. The announcement was made in a ceremony at The Perth Mint by Sam Walsh AO, Chair of The Perth Mint and of Australia Council for the Arts.

The Literary Lions Medal was launched in 2019 by Writing WA’s private donors to turn a spotlight back onto the many passionate individuals and unsung heroes across the sector who are quietly working to ensure our writing culture thrives now and into the future. 

Magabala Books is so incredibly proud Rachel has been recognised in this way by our peers. Rachel has been associated with Magabala since she was 19 years old, starting as a publishing assistant, and establishing herself over many years as a leading Publisher, making a substantial contribution to the vibrant landscape of Indigenous storytelling.

Rachel is descended from the Nimunburr and Yawuru peoples of the Kimberley and is committed to empowering Indigenous people to share their stories. Her generosity and commitment are evident in her drive to grow Indigenous publishing. She plays a leadership role within the industry, sharing her knowledge and experience with her characteristic frank and fearless sense of humour, and providing mentoring and support for authors and publishers who come to her for advice on a regular basis. As Publisher, her artistic vision and integrity have brought the organisation to its most successful point in Magabala’s 32-year history.

Listen here to Rachel's interview with ABC's Barry Nicholls following the announcement that she had won the Medal and $10,000 cash prize!

Our thanks go to the Literary Lions and Writing WA for initiating this significant award. Your support for our industry and your passion for literature is so appreciated. We congratulate the other outstanding finalists Lesley Reece, Founder and Director of The Literature Centre, and Gary de Piazza, WA Poets Inc. and look forward to celebrating many more WA Literary Lions to come!