Binar Founder Adam Desmond has been named Western Australia’s Local Hero for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards, recognising his outstanding contribution to Aboriginal communities and his tireless commitment to creating positive pathways for young people across Western Australia.
The award is a significant milestone for Adam, whose vision and dedication have helped transform Binar from a small basketball initiative into a thriving Aboriginal community organisation supporting more than 2,500 children across Western Australia.
What began 15 years ago with just six young people and a basketball court has grown into an organisation delivering a wide range of programs across basketball, education, health, mentoring and cultural identity. Through these initiatives, Binar creates opportunities for young people to connect with culture, develop their skills, access essential services and build a strong sense of belonging.
Today, Binar’s impact extends well beyond the basketball court, reaching schools and regional communities and supporting young people to thrive both on and off the court. The organisation has also made history as the first Aboriginal-led club to enter Western Australia’s representative basketball competition, opening new doors for Aboriginal athletes and future generations.
At the heart of this work is Adam’s belief in the potential of young people and the importance of community-led change. His vision has always extended beyond sport, with a focus on creating lasting opportunities and empowering Aboriginal people to shape their own futures.
One of the most powerful examples of this impact is the growing number of young people who have come through Binar’s programs and are now returning as coaches, mentors and leaders themselves. This cycle of leadership is helping build a stronger future for the next generation.
Adam Desmond receiving his West Australian Local Hero 2027 Award on stage
A Well-Deserved Recognition
For those who work alongside Adam, this award represents far more than an individual achievement. It recognises years of dedication, persistence and hard work, much of which happens quietly behind the scenes.
Adam has never been driven by recognition or accolades. His focus has remained on doing the work, creating meaningful opportunities and making a genuine difference in the lives of young people and their families.
That is what makes this recognition so special. It provides an opportunity to celebrate someone who consistently puts community first and whose efforts have had a lasting impact on thousands of lives.
Being named WA’s Local Hero shines a light on the work Adam has dedicated himself to over the past 15 years, as well as the broader Binar community, whose young people, families, staff, coaches, partners and supporters all contribute to bringing his vision to life.
Adam Desmond with the other award winners - Pheobe Ho (2027 WA Young Australian of the Year), Tina Baldwin (2027 WA Senior of the Year), Esther Oh (2027 WA Australian of the Year)
Looking Ahead to the National Awards
As Western Australia’s Local Hero for 2027, Adam will now progress to the national stage, where he is in the running for Australian Local Hero of the Year. The national award recipient will be announced in January 2027.
The Binar community is incredibly proud to see Adam’s contribution recognised at this level and looks forward to supporting him as he takes this next step.
Congratulations, Adam, on this well-deserved honour. Your vision, dedication and commitment to community continue to create opportunities, inspire future leaders and change lives across Western Australia.
From six young people and a basketball court to a community movement supporting thousands, your impact is a legacy that continues to grow.