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Victorian Senior of the Year - Veteran Community Award

Veronica has been a very positive contributor to the veteran community, and has a deep affection and commitment to the cause of returned service personnel.

Veronica Hassing

Awarded the 2021 Veteran Community Award - Veronica Hassing

Nominated by: Melton City Council

Veronica dedicates her time, energy and passion to supporting her community and others in need – and volunteers with Carers Victoria, the Smith Family, the Court Network, the RSL, ANZAC Day appeal, and assists in organising her local community fete.

‘Veronica has a deep affection and commitment to the cause of returned service personnel, and she volunteers for the RSL in memory of her father James Fogarty who served with AIF in France during World War I’, Darren Cunningham, Positive Ageing Officer Melton City Council says.

A charming and brilliant ambassador

Veronica has been a very positive contributor to the veteran community, including the Caroline Springs RSL since its inception in 2014. A charming and brilliant ambassador poppy seller for ANZAC and Remembrance Days. In 2020 to meet the challenge of COVID-19, Veronica turned her garage into a pop-up poppy selling outlet and raised $1000 for RSL welfare.

Veronica has also volunteered with Carers Victoria since 2006, dedicating up to two days per week to help make life better for family carers of people who have a disability, serious illness or age-related condition.

The Interim Chief Executive Office of Carers Victoria, Sue Peden AM said ‘Veronica’s resilience and commitment to volunteering is an inspiration to carers and staff alike. She loves people, works hard and always tries to lift the spirit of those around her’.

Carers Victoria have bestowed life membership for her 14 years of weekly volunteering. A true hero in the community, Veronica is compassionate and friendly, ‘her smile can make all the difference especially when working with vulnerable people and situations’ Sue says.

Veronica’s community endorses her as a generous person who is selfless with her time and dedication to others.

Reviewed 05 February 2024