Congratulations to the recipients of the 2021 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Hear from some of the recipients about what motivates then to volunteer and support others, and what it means to receive their award.
Anne Tudor, recipient of the Premier's Award
Anne Tudor has contributed in many ways – locally, in Victoria, nationally and internationally – to increasing dementia awareness and understanding about the importance of inclusion and empathy in the community.
John Thuy, recipient of the Promotion of Multiculturalism Award
John has been tirelessly organising community programs that help seniors build social connection, self-confidence and friendship, using traditional Vietnamese arts & culture as a vehicle.
Veronica Hassing, recipient of the Veteran Community Award
In memory of her father who served in WWI, Veronica has been a very positive contributor to the veteran community, she has a deep affection and commitment to the cause of returned service personnel.
Trevor Eddy, recipient of the COTA Senior Achiever Award
Trevor is a committed and successful advocate and volunteer for numerous community organisations in Whitehorse and beyond.
Valerie Donlon, recipient of the COTA Senior Achiever Award
Valerie has volunteered at Eastern Volunteers as a driver, with AMES as a tutor, at WIRE as a telephone support worker and since retiring nine years ago in a multi-faceted role at U3A Nunawading including four as president.
Brenda Todd, recipient of the COTA Senior Achiever Award
Brenda has been a volunteer counsellor for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre for eight years, using her highly developed skills as a psychologist and psychotherapist to support people seeking asylum, many of whom live with the stress of perpetual uncertainty.
Thoa Tran, recipient of the COTA Senior Achiever Award
Thoa Tran generously shares her creativity and skills with her community, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Thoa found new ways to stay connected and give back through her beautiful sewing skills.
Uncle Frank Laxton, recipient of the COTA Senior Achiever Award
Uncle Frank Laxton is an extraordinary community leader who has supported Aboriginal people towards, culture, health, employment and secure housing over most of his adult life and into retirement.
Read more about the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Reviewed 26 February 2024
