The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards took place at Government House on Wednesday 22 October 2025. Minister for Ageing, Ingrid Stitt MP and Robert Caulfield, President, Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria, joined the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, to present the awards.
The 2025 award recipients strengthen Victoria with their generosity, advocacy and commitment. They bring people together, create change and show how to live with purpose, at every age.
Thank you to all nominees and award recipients for helping to build a better future.
Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year
This award recognises an individual for their outstanding and lasting contribution to their local community and Victoria. This year, we also share 2 high commendations for this prestigious award.
Patrick Templeton
Patrick is the co-founder of Operation Stitches. Created in 1996 with his wife Chris, Operation Stitches has made a long-lasting impact on the lives of children and families across Melbourne’s public housing estates.
Since turning 60, Patrick has volunteered over 30,000 hours with Operation Stitches. Patrick focuses on mentoring children who experience complex challenges. This includes poverty, trauma or social exclusion. Through weekly sessions, Patrick nurtures confidence, emotional resilience and a sense of belonging. He does more than help with homework. He empowers young people to believe in their potential.
Patrick also works with families through home visits, school meetings and community events. His non-judgmental approach fosters trust and connection with parents. Patrick plays a central role in family fun days, youth camps and community outreach programs. These events offer a safe space for families to eat together and create memories. He works with schools and service providers to ensure children have a voice in their support.
Patrick’s ongoing work helps to build healthier, more stable futures.
Highly commended
Distinguished Professor Emeritus Frances Separovic AO FAA
Frances has dedicated her retirement years to tireless volunteer service. She empowers others to step into leadership and builds bridges between cultures. Frances helps create a Victoria where everyone can belong and contribute.
Frances is a strong advocate for migrant women and under-represented voices. She has mentored dozens of early-career researchers, many women, migrants or first-generation scholars. Her mentees influence their own communities, teach others and have become leaders themselves. Frances plays a vital role on the Advisory Board of Australian New Zealand Croatian Women in Leadership. She also supports science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) programs through the Victorian Croatian Chamber of Commerce.
Frances is driven to advance science diplomacy and inclusion. She leads with courage, compassion and an infectious belief that age is an asset. As Foreign Secretary of the Australian Academy of Science, Frances has represented Australia at many global scientific forums. She also volunteers for over 15 national and international boards, councils and programs. Her leadership benefits thousands of local students, researchers and businesses.
Jenifer Whitwam
Jenifer has an unwavering dedication to her community and its histories. Over the past 13 years, she has volunteered nearly 20,000 hours. Jenifer connects people through shared pasts, presents and futures.
Jenifer’s passion preserves her community’s history for generations to come. At the Traralgon Cemetery Trust, her research shines a light on buried stories and shapes the cemetery's popular walking tours. At the Gippsland Memorial Park, memorial plaques recognise veterans and nurses who served in conflict. Jenifer’s archival research ensures communities can honour their family member's sacrifice.
Jenifer is known as a community champion. She demonstrates how to live with purpose and compassion. At aged care facilities, Jenifer provides conversation and companionship to those around her. These visits are often a lifeline to those who feel lonely or don't have family nearby. She also organises day trips to Melbourne with great care and attention. As a long-standing Probus member, Jenifer’s leadership enhances the lives of fellow retirees. Looking to the future, she encourages lifelong learning and participation for all.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards
These awards recognise local community champions that significantly contribute to positive ageing in their community.
Steve Bentley
Steve joined the L2P program in 2022 to support young Learner drivers. He mentors young people to gain life-changing skills, connection and independence. Steve also spends 1 to 2 days a week at a school-based L2P pilot program to support students from refugee backgrounds. Steve is also a member of the L2P Advisory Group. He offers invaluable input into mentor recruitment, program promotion and operational improvements.
Beyond L2P, Steve has a long-standing commitment to his community. He was the Geelong YMCA President for 8 years. Steve also volunteers at the Geelong Animal Welfare Society. He is also the Vice President of the Stair Climbing Australia Committee. Steve speaks publicly about his volunteering journey. His work highlights important conversations about men’s health and wellbeing. Steve remains committed to helping people live their best lives in their later years.
Steve’s volunteer efforts represent the best of community spirit. He offers selfless service, lasting impact and a deep belief in the power of connection.
Raissa Bolotnikova
Since her arrival to Australia in 2000, Raissa has worked to empower and support fellow holocaust survivors in her community.
Raissa has dedicated nearly 20 years to the Association of Former Inmates of the Nazi Concentration Camps and Ghettos from the Former Soviet Union. Her daily contributions are the reason the group continues to exist. Raissa organises cultural events so all members can celebrate Jewish faith and culture. Alongside raising awareness of lived experience, Raissa provides hands-on support. She encourages everyone to attend classes and manages the association’s meetings. She also drives members to and from activities so they can join in – a true example of positive ageing.
Raissa gives back to her community through unwavering peer support. She links members to other community groups and supports neighbours with daily tasks. Many people, in particular those who live alone, find solace in Raissa’s support. Her work keeps people connected to the wider community. Raissa’s simple acts of kindness brighten the days of everyone around her.
Terry Hart
Terry enriches his local community through mentorship, education and meteorology.
Terry shares his mentoring and teaching skills across many fields. On the water, Terry has volunteered his sailing experience with Sailability Victoria for 10 years. Here, he helps to run a program that provides sailing opportunities for people with disability. Terry also tutors students from refugee backgrounds through Anglicare Victoria and the Sudanese Australian Integrated Learning (SAIL) Program. His support and encouragement create connections that bridge generations and cultures.
Terry shares his knowledge and passion for meteorology with the community. For the past 5 years, Terry has taught a popular science class at U3A Nunawading called ‘Understanding the weather’. As a result of Terry’s work, the class now also includes topics on climate and climate change. Terry empowers older Victorians to understand current science issues and continue learning. Outside of the classroom, in 2015 Terry joined the U3A Nunawading volunteer management team. Terry's contributions have supported the education and social connection of more than 2,800 members.
Pradeep Kanthan
Pradeep's volunteering shows how older adults can be powerful advocates for social change.
Since 2003, Pradeep has served as the Secretary of the Communities Council on Ethnic Issues (CCOEI), Eastern Region. He contributes across governance, communications and community fundraising events. Pradeep also organises the monthly Migrant Settlement Committee meetings. Pradeep's tireless work and advocacy uplifts the multicultural communities he serves.
Pradeep's passion for inclusion is matched by a long history of volunteering. Before 2023, Pradeep spent 3 years at Computer Pals. Here, he helped older Australians to develop digital literacy skills and stay connected. At Hearing Matters Australia, he supported people with hearing loss for over 6 years. As a veteran, Pradeep honours diverse military histories through ANZAC Day presentations and writing. His work spotlights the contributions of south-east Asian veterans and communities.
Pradeep fosters community cohesion across all his volunteering roles. His contributions reflect a sustained commitment to inclusion and a better world for all.
Geoffrey Mann
Every week, Geoffrey spends his time volunteering across 3 organisations. Geoffrey brings his warmth, humility and care to each position.
Geoffrey spends 2 days per week at Geelong FoodShare. Working in the commercial kitchen, he cooks around 200 meals to share with people in need. Geoffrey also dedicates 2 days per week to Rotary. As a valued member for over 25 years, Geoffrey drives new programs to help communities near and far. He collects medical resources for communities in Sri Lanka and Papua New Guinea, through an aid and equipment program.
One day per week, Geoffrey drives for the volunteer patient transport program at Barwon Health. He ensures community members can get to and from important medical appointments. Geoffrey has volunteered here for 5 years and in 2024 completed more than 3,200 trips.
Geoffrey’s optimism and volunteering show that ageing is full of growth, joy and contribution. Leading through example, he inspires people of all ages to value and celebrate the journey of getting older.
Lesley McCarthy
Following a career in education, Lesley’s passion for lifelong learning continues through volunteering. For Lesley, age isn’t a barrier – just a depth of experience.
Lesley has been a member of the Flemington Kensington Rotary for over 20 years. Lesley has held many board positions, but her true impact is seen through her work with children.
Lesley leads the 1,000 Stories Project and Djerring Hub playgroup programs. These help children from all backgrounds access reading materials and improve vocabulary. The playgroup holiday program provides books, games and puzzles for children who speak English as a second language. The 1,000 Stories Project provides free books to every child, each time they visit the Moonee Valley Maternal and Child Health Service.
Lesley is also active in her community. You can find her at the local Op Shop, visiting schools or coaching netball. Lesley empowers others to get involved and works tirelessly to make her community a better place.
Tony Morrissey
Tony greets each day determined to lift someone’s spirits, ease a burden or bring a smile. His kindness, reliability and optimism are woven into the fabric of his community.
Confronting his own prostate cancer diagnosis only boosted Tony’s commitment to others. Over the past 2 and a half years, Tony has devoted up to 30 hours a week to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. He provides peer support and leads events to reduce stigma and encourage early testing. Tony’s warmth and courage inspires countless men to speak about their health. Tony’s mentoring, public speaking and fundraising campaigns support countless individuals and families.
In 2024, Tony joined the Whitehorse Seniors Festival community committee, championing inclusive events. He arranged mobility aids, coordinated volunteer transport and greeted every guest. He helped the festival attract over 600 participants to celebrate life at every age.
Tony believes ageing is a privilege and process. His actions continue to transform lives every day.
Nola Radiotis
Nola is an active and inspirational volunteer who supports older multicultural women through movement and connection.
For the past 14 years, Nola has been the president of the group, Greek Women of Northern Suburbs ‘Anemones’. As a volunteer, she helps older women to stay active and connected. Nola runs weekly dance and exercise classes for older women. She also organises cultural celebrations and excursions to museums and galleries. Nola set up a group chat for the Anemones to keep everyone connected. For some members, these messages are the highlight of their day.
Nola is also a passionate advocate for older people. She applies for grants to run community events for free or a low cost. A skilled interpreter, Nola helps multicultural women to access vital information and services.
Nola serves on the committees of the Hellenic Women’s Federation Victoria and the Northern Federation of Ethnic Senior Clubs. Through close to 10,000 hours of volunteering, Nola’s efforts continue to uplift and empower seniors.
Mike Ridley
In his local community, Mike is known for his volunteering work. His contributions show ageing can be an expansion, not a retreat. Over decades of hands-on volunteering, Mike has built connection, preserved culture and brought people together.
For 25 years, Mike has played his part at Gulf Station Historic Farm, keeping the heritage site open for the public. Mike contributes to the physical upkeep of the historic farm. From maintaining infrastructure to tending animals, Mike encourages others to pitch in.
Mike is also a storyteller, making history relatable and memorable. At Gulf Station, he ran historical tours about Victoria's rural past for visitors and school children. He also shared his knowledge at Montsalvat, Melbourne General Cemetery and the ABC studios. Mike gives his time so the community can learn and feel inspired. His volunteering shows what it means to live with purpose and generosity, at any age.
Judy Turner
Judy knows how to build music and positive ageing into her community. She champions everyone in Hepburn Shire, where all know her name.
Judy created the CresFest Folk and Roots Festival. The popular age-friendly festival attracts artists from around the world. Judy developed the festival to encourage social cohesion and multigenerational connection.
Over 25 years ago, Judy also founded the Melbourne Scottish Fiddle Club. The club creates strong intergenerational bonds through music. Over 1,000 members have passed through the club’s doors. They have performed lively Scottish music across Australia and abroad.
Judy’s energy is an inspirational force. Her positive attitude towards ageing has inspired thousands to connect. She has led many local projects including Music at the Mill, Creswick Chorus and the Creswick Kids Choir. In 2024, Judy presented on the power of music in ageing at Hepburn Shire’s Positive Ageing Expo. Alongside these projects, Judy is a board member for Express Media and Creswick Neighbourhood Centre.
Emerging Impact Award
This award recognises an individual who is new to volunteering and is making a significant impact in their local community.
Aunty Jo Russell
Aunty Jo Russell inspires her community to learn about Country with compassion and generosity. She is a respected Elder, proud Wiradyuri woman and Hume Enviro Champion.
Aunty Jo volunteers at the Westmeadows Indigenous and Community Gardens. Over the past 6 years, her knowledge has opened gardens and minds. Aunty Jo created a fibre food garden, yarning circle and strong ties to community. She hosts walks to explore bush food and fibre plants as tools for reconciliation and sustainability.
Aunty Jo is open-hearted and proactive in sharing her time and knowledge. Since she reached out to a local school, the gardens have now hosted reflection days 2 years in a row. Over 200 students have attended each year, raising enough money for a much-needed tool shed. Aunty Jo also regularly hosts kindergarten classes. She provides a safe, culturally appropriate space for nature play and connection to Country.
Positive Ageing Award
This award recognises an individual who improves the wellbeing of older people in their community by promoting positive and active ageing.
Kate Donelan
Kate is a dedicated volunteer and advocate for the wellbeing of older people.
While Chair of the Port Fairy Community House, Kate wanted to identify the needs of local older people. She won a research grant that found older people wanted more opportunities for learning and connection. Using this evidence, Kate led a team to start a University of the Third Age (U3A) in Port Fairy.
U3A Port Fairy opened in 2018 with Kate as President. Under her leadership, membership has grown to 280 people. Kate has also developed a strong volunteering culture. She inspires members to become course leaders and share their work skills, hobbies and life experiences. The U3A makes local community members feel proud to live in Port Fairy.
Kate is also a strong advocate for positive ageing in local government. She successfully lobbied for her local shire to sign the Age-Friendly Victoria Declaration. By signing the Declaration, the shire committed to building age-friendly communities.
Promotion of Multiculturalism Award
This award recognises an individual for a significant contribution to promoting the benefits of cultural diversity in their local community and across Victoria.
Dilnaz Billimoria
For more than 20 years, Dilnaz has empowered older Victorians from all backgrounds to feel heard, welcomed and celebrated.
Dilnaz is a proud Indian Australian woman of Persian background and Zoroastrian faith. She sees firsthand the barriers that culturally and linguistically diverse older people face. Dilnaz uses her insights to build community resilience and connections.
Dilnaz is a founding member of the Whitehorse Interfaith Network (WIN), with nearly 20 years of service. For 10 years, she has been a board member for the Communities' Council on Ethnic Issues (CCOEI) and Women’s Health East.
Dilnaz is determined to create lasting, practical change. Dilnaz brings together multifaith and multilingual leaders with grassroots communities for respectful dialogue. She runs inclusive events and provides culturally sensitive support. At local seniors clubs, she supports grant writing, drafts reports and secures interpreters. At Celebrate Ageing, Dilnaz mentors older women in leadership skills.
Dilnaz's boundless energy and dedication uplifts the communities she supports.
Veteran Community Award
This award recognises an individual for their exceptional contribution to the veteran community. The recipient of the award does not need to be a veteran.
Dave Cox
Dave is a respected veteran and committed volunteer who brings music and mindfulness to veterans across the country.
Through the Guitars for Veterans program, Dave launched a Melbourne group in 2017. The program matches veterans and music teachers together for lessons. It also provides the guitars. Once established, Dave inspired interstate leaders to oversee the program Australia wide.
Learning the guitar helps to build a sense of purpose for veterans in a safe environment. The program gives players an opportunity to relax, achieve new goals and gain confidence. The program has supported over 600 veterans to reconnect with themselves and community. Many veterans now play in groups, write music and perform together.
Dave’s positivity and encouragement continues to change lives in the veteran community.
Reviewed 22 October 2025