The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards took place at Government House on Tuesday 20 October 2026.
Minister for Seniors, the Hon. Nick Staikos MP, and President, Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria, Robert Caulfield, joined the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, to present the awards.
The 2026 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.
The award recipients are mentors and community builders. They share their skills, time and energy to make a difference through actions such as:
- hands-on support with nutrition and social connection
- navigating emergencies, language barriers and healthcare systems
- empowering others to give back and build better futures for all.
Thank you to all nominees and award recipients for helping to make our state stronger.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards
These awards recognise local community champions that significantly contribute to positive ageing in their community.
Aunty Claudette Lovett
Aunty Claudette is a proud Gunditjmara Elder. She has made a lasting impact in her community. Her leadership and cultural guidance build understanding, inclusion and reconciliation across the region.
Aunty Claudette is a volunteer on her local council’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Committee and Yarning Circle. She provides guidance and consultation on major council projects. Aunty Claudette ensures Aboriginal voices and knowledge are embedded in community decisions.
Aunty Claudette leads with warmth, humility and advocacy. She volunteers as a support person at the Western District Health Service. She helps patients feel heard, respected and culturally safe. Aunty Claudette has also contributed to many community initiatives. This includes Harmony Day celebrations, library Storytime events and cultural education programs. She encourages pride in culture and respect for Elders. She advocates for stronger community connections.
Aunty Claudette shows older people are vital in shaping vibrant, resilient communities. Her positive outlook and generosity are an inspiration to people of all ages.
Constantine Pagonis
For over 40 years, Constantine (Con) has worked to strengthen social cohesion in Victoria and across the country. He is a devoted volunteer and mentor who uplifts the people around him.
Con’s leadership is generous and far reaching. Across many roles, younger and emerging leaders look to him for guidance. Con has been an important member of the Welcoming Cities governance committee since its start in 2015. Here, Con advises on a benchmark for inclusion policies in local government. He helps to create communities where everyone can belong.
Con’s passion for storytelling connects people and uplifts diverse voices. At the Ethnic Communities' Council of Victoria, he created and edited a newsletter for over 267 communities. In his 5 years as editor, Con published 145 editions. Con’s influence continues into the arts, preserving and creating history. He digitises records at the Australian Jazz Museum. At the Boite, he promotes world musical performances and engages migrant communities.
Con inspires others to remain engaged and hopeful as they grow older.
Eufemia Luppino
Eufemia (Emi) is a compassionate and tireless volunteer who believes in the good of people. For more than 20 years, she has made a positive difference in her community.
Emi currently volunteers more than 150 hours each month. Seeing others happy drives Emi to do more.
At the Box Hill RSL, Emi checks on people’s wellbeing and encourages participation at Women’s Auxiliary events. She transports members, delivers items and reaches out for a chat. She inspires others to be courageous and get involved. With thanks to Emi, events have high participation rates. This brings reliable companionship to many in the community.
Emi’s contributions also extend to supporting people experiencing hardship. Emi donates hundreds of her handmade knitted items to help people in need. Every Saturday with a food rescue group, Emi distributes food to local community members experiencing homelessness. She puts aside bread and time to chat. At Greenlink, Emi supports her fellow volunteers. She prepares food, does manual work and clears dumped rubbish. Emi makes sure everyone feels safe and welcome.
Greg Snart
Greg put his hand up to join the Country Fire Authority (CFA) in 1997 and never looked back. Since then, he has held many roles in the Macedon CFA brigade, including Captain. He is currently the Group Officer for all 8 brigades in the Mt Macedon group. Greg brings practical experience and calm leadership to major fires and disasters.
Greg is also a proud mentor to CFA volunteers and captains. In his training, he provides guidance, support and leadership development. Greg is attentive and always willing to help. He’s especially proud that his brigade has a broad range of ages and genders. He says its rewarding to have people from all walks of life come together.
Beyond operational firefighting, Greg organises youth mental health first aid programs. He delivers fire safety information to schools, landcare groups and aged care facilities. He educates community members about leaving early during a fire. Greg explains things in a thoughtful way that people trust and understand.
In all his work, Greg leads with compassion and genuine community care.
Jagdeep Sukhija
Jagdeep founded Compassionate Hands Inc. in 2020. Since its creation, he has made a difference in the lives of over 175 older people and multicultural families.
Under Jagdeep’s leadership, Compassionate Hands Inc. organises regular social, cultural and educational events. These include important health awareness sessions and cultural celebrations, like Baisakhi and Diwali. Here, older people remain connected to their heritage and the wider community.
Jagdeep plays an active and hands-on role in supporting others. Jagdeep organised a Breast Cancer Screening Program for 115 women in the organisation and community. As a result, 2 women were diagnosed early and received timely, life-saving treatment. Jagdeep also offers practical support with emotional care. He takes the time to listen, guide and uplift those in need. Many members who were once isolated are now active in the community. They volunteer, attend events and contribute their skills to give back.
Jagdeep leads with humility. He has a genuine desire to serve others. His enthusiasm and encouragement transforms lives. He instils confidence and a renewed sense of self-worth in those he supports.
Jan Antosiewicz
Jan has created lasting change in the Ballarat region. Her decades of volunteering shows the value in reliable and steady commitment.
Jan contributes to the organisations many people rely on during hard times. She has volunteered with the Australian Red Cross for 47 years and is Chair of her local branch. As President of the Buninyong Senior Citizens Club, she delivers weekly activities. This program helps older residents create friendship, routine and purpose. Jan’s inspiring leadership shows that community life can grow at any age.
Jan’s tireless fundraising efforts have raised tens of thousands of dollars. The funds benefit veterans, women’s education and community wellbeing. Jan ran a garden party fundraiser for the Ballarat Hospice Special Interest Group. This contributed to specialist equipment for people in end-of-life care to use at home. At the Soroptimist International Ballarat, Jan leads fundraising to support the local shower and soup buses.
Jan inspires others by remaining visible and active in roles that matter. She sees ageing as a time for curiosity and caring.
Jeanette Hajncl
Jeanette is an artist, mentor and community builder. She brings people together through the joy of music and movement.
Over 2 decades, Jeanette has built an incredible network of choirs and musical groups. She conducted and led the Mozart Choral Group, including the Merri Singers, for 24 years. Her leadership shaped the group into a community ensemble that still meets weekly. Jeanette also founded the Fresh Voices choir for young people and the Cantori choir for advanced singers.
In these intergenerational spaces, people feel uplifted and valued. Retirees learn new vocal techniques and young people gain confidence. Jeanette sees families discover new forms of music together. At rehearsals, Jeanette shows how the body can be free and expressive at any age. She helps singers to breathe and move with confidence.
Jeanette’s choirs have sung at weddings, funerals and community gatherings. They are present in moments of celebration, grief and transition. Her music and energy bring joy and comfort to the entire community.
John MacInnes
John is a dedicated volunteer in the arts and community broadcasting sectors. He believes that community involvement is essential at every stage of life. His passion and leadership create opportunities for people to get involved in the arts for generations to come.
John brings energy and positivity to all his roles. He has served as President of the Warrnambool Symphony Orchestra for over 20 years. John has helped build a stable and resilient organisation that continues to thrive. Each year, the orchestra presents concerts that connect and inspire audiences of all ages. John also mentors school students in the Primary Performers program. He helps students develop their musical skills and learn how to work as a team.
Over more than 2 decades, John has held many roles at 3-Way FM community radio. This includes president, vice-president, secretary and broadcaster. John’s programs promote local stories, community groups and important information. He connects with a broad audience, helping residents stay informed and engaged. The station remains a vital platform for connection in the region.
Raymundo Rosales
Giving to others is the norm in Raymundo’s life. He leads by example, inspiring others to live life to its fullest.
Raymundo (Ray) started volunteering with the South Morang Country Fire Authority (CFA) in 2005. He transferred to the Mernda brigade 3 years later. He has responded to many emergencies and worked to keep the community safe. On top of firefighting duties, Ray is treasurer at his brigade. He also helps with the rehabilitation of those returning to active bushfires. Ray believes in ageing with positivity. He knows that even when someone’s abilities change, they still have the skills to make the world a better place.
At the St Vincent de Paul Society, Ray supports refugees, asylum seekers and victim survivors of domestic violence. Since 2009, every week Ray visits families who need help. His support as a case worker has changed the lives of many people. Ray was also a committee member of the Whittlesea Reconciliation Group. As part of this group, he helped raise awareness of community welfare issues and programs to assist in the process of reconciliation.
Emerging Impact Award
This award recognises an individual who is new to volunteering and is making a significant impact in their local community.
Mahendrakumar Patel
Mahendrakumar joined the United Seniors Club in 2022. Four years under his leadership as secretary has seen the club thrive. It now supports 380 members.
He has made a remarkable difference for older migrants and the multicultural community.
Mahendrakumar empowers the community. He has a hands-on approach to breaking down language barriers. Mahendrakumar tutors in Gujarati and Hindi. This helps older members with their driver’s license tests, enabling them to become independent sooner. He also organises healthcare seminars delivered in Gujarati and Hindi. These programs enable access to important healthcare information.
Mahendrakumar has coordinated over 10,000 free meals for older migrants. His flagship ‘Cooking together’ program makes nutritious meals. The operational cost to produce the meal is low. He also introduced reusable crockery at weekly gatherings to help make the program sustainable. Mahendrakumar is proud of his inclusive and innovative funding model. The United Seniors Club has a once-off nominal fee. There is no ongoing cost for membership. This encourages members to get involved and share their skills.
Positive Ageing Award
This award recognises an individual who improves the wellbeing of older people in their community by promoting positive and active ageing.
Sandra Verdam
Sandra founded Memory Care Cafés. They are a support network for carers and people living with dementia.
The cafés are a welcoming space to access support and respite. They attract around 40 attendees per week. While volunteers run activities, carers spend time connecting with others who understand. For many carers, finding a peer group and a short relief from caregiving responsibilities is invaluable. Her dream is that these cafés will be available everywhere.
Sandra’s work strengthens pathways between the community and health systems. Sandra helps carers navigate My Aged Care and connect with local services. She organises information sessions about dementia, seniors rights and palliative care.
Under Sandra’s leadership, the program has grown into a trusted community organisation. To raise awareness, Sandra regularly speaks to community groups. Her presentations challenge stigma around ageing and dementia, often to 70 to 80 people at a time.
Sandra centres lived experience in her work. By sharing her own story, she fosters a culture where people can feel respected and less alone.
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.
Ronnie Figdor OAM
Ronnie is a champion of social cohesion. He has dedicated his life to bridging the gaps between diverse ethnic groups and generations.
For over 3 decades, he has been a pillar of the Caulfield Hebrew Congregation. He organises daily services and prayer groups. His commitment maintains the spiritual heartbeat of the community.
Beyond the synagogue walls, he is a dedicated educator and liaison. Ronnie strives to demystify Jewish faith and practice for the wider public. At an aged care facility, Ronnie supports interfaith dialogue. He trains staff in Jewish culture and officiates vibrant cultural programs. At the Alfred Hospital, he champions for higher standards of patient care. He advocates for the diverse spiritual needs of patients, fostering mutual respect. Ronnie has also served in the public sector, which reflects his belief in civic duty.
Ronnie’s warm, outgoing nature allows him to connect with all he meets. Through varied roles, Ronnie weaves a stronger, more inclusive Victorian community.
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.
Margaret Jager
Margaret has championed the female veteran community for over 40 years. Her dedication helps the community stay connected. She makes sure their legacies continue.
Margaret joined the Women's Royal Australian Army Corps (WRAAC) Association Victoria in 1976. The association provides social connection and activities to over 180 female veterans. Margaret has been President, Treasurer and journal editor.
No matter her role, Margaret is the heart of the association. She is the driving force behind growing relationships with the members. Her welcoming leadership creates spaces for people to come together and remember. Margaret’s work helps veterans know they are not alone in the world.
Margaret ensures those who can’t attend events still have ways to connect with community. She set up the association’s website. She is also a key player in the ongoing production of the printed journal. These communications highlight stories, historical events and community updates. Margaret also visits schools to share and preserve veteran history with younger generations.
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. We also share 2 high commendations for this prestigious award.
Mark Edmonds
Mark has dedicated his retirement to volunteering across the globe. He empowers communities to become self-sustaining and thrive for generations to come.
After a career in corporate banking, Mark joined Vision Fund and Uniting World. He mentored in finance and building projects in many countries.
At the Mathew Rusike Children's Home in Zimbabwe, Mark realised he could offer more. The program housed 150 orphaned children and supported another 2,000 via outreach. Mark knew he could offer practical help, which he learnt from growing up on farms.
In his own time, Mark raised funds to go back and establish a vegetable farm and irrigation system. Over years, he returned to double the crops and set up other infrastructure. Now, the orphanage grows enough food to feed all the children and sell the extra.
Mark has since established similar systems at 3 other locations in Zimbabwe: Gokwe, Waddilove and Lirhanzo. Over 2,000 students have gained a hands-on agricultural education. Mark’s work helps to build lasting skills and stronger futures for children across Zimbabwe.
Highly commended
Christine McCracken
Christine has improved community wellbeing in north-east Victoria since 1975. Her passionate and collaborative leadership helps keep her community active and cared for.
Christine's volunteering has long-lasting benefits. She has improved community facilities. This includes reinforcing the Happy Valley Hall as a community hub. Christine has published 2 books on Hall projects. Sharing these stories helps families feel a sense of community spirit and pride.
Christine’s passion inspires others to pass on knowledge and get involved. At her local Country Women’s Association of Victoria (CWA), she co-created the ‘Helping Hands’ bursary project. The bursary helps rural school leavers fund their future studies. Also through CWA, Christine helped mentor young parents to re-establish a much-needed toy library. Christine is a founding member of U3A Myrtleford. Here, she is a respected tutor and co-authored an award-winning book on the community.
Christine continues to make a difference. She shows that age is no barrier towards helping and connecting with others.
Noel Austin
Noel is respected in his community for decades of leadership and selfless service. His lifelong contributions have strengthened the wellbeing of regional communities across western Victoria.
Noel joined the Country Fire Authority (CFA) in 1964. More than 60 years later, he remains a committed and active volunteer. As a mentor, Noel is known for his calm approach and patience. He has taught generations of volunteers. Many credit him with giving them the confidence to step into leadership roles. Beyond his brigade, Noel has trained around 600 CFA volunteers in heavy vehicle, on and off road and emergency response driving. He also contributes practical expertise to the design of new CFA fire trucks in Victoria.
Noel always steps forward when people need help. He contributes to road safety programs. He helps residents attend appointments and maintains grave sites for families. Noel is a founding member of the Rural Financial Counselling Victoria-Wimmera South West. Here, he offered financial counselling to families and small business going through hardship. Noel leads through quiet action and humility. He helps others to succeed. Noel's lifelong commitment shows how one person can make a big difference.
Reviewed 20 October 2026