Nominations open for community-focused Senior Awards!

HONOURED... Ms Robbie Rae, 71 of Violet Town in the Strathbogie Shire, was a 2023 Victorian Seniors Award recipient. Robbie is a highly respected and dedicated community member, known for her extensive volunteer work spanning over three decades. She has served as the VICSWIM Regional Coordinator for 32 years, actively supporting the Friends of the Pool Committee and promoting water safety. Robbie is also a dedicated judge for Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria (Tidy Town) and a member of various groups, including Victoria Volunteers and the CFA. Her involvement in the Violet Town Bowling Club includes organising fun and educational lawn bowls events for children. Robbie has also contributed to environmental projects, supported community festivals, and played a significant role in the Violet Town Hall Committee. Her commitment, awards, and enthusiasm for nurturing community spirit and reducing isolation make her a cherished community leader. Pictured is Victorian Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt, 2023 Victorian Seniors Award recipient Robbie Rae, and Governor of Victoria Margaret Gardner AC. Photo: Supplied

IT is time to recognise the contributions of older Victorians by submitting nominations for the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards, celebrating senior Victorians who share their skills, experience, time and energy with our community.

“The vast majority of older people give back to their community without asking for any accolades – but this is their time to shine,” said Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt, opening nominations this month. “I encourage Victorians to identify the inspiring older people in their lives and put them forward for well-deserved recognition.”

HONOURED… Ms Robbie Rae, 71 of Violet Town in the Strathbogie Shire, was a 2023 Victorian Seniors Award recipient. Robbie is a highly respected and dedicated community member, known for her extensive volunteer work spanning over three decades. She has served as the VICSWIM Regional Coordinator for 32 years, actively supporting the Friends of the Pool Committee and promoting water safety. Robbie is also a dedicated judge for Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria (Tidy Town) and a member of various groups, including Victoria Volunteers and the CFA. Her involvement in the Violet Town Bowling Club includes organising fun and educational lawn bowls events for children. Robbie has also contributed to environmental projects, supported community festivals, and played a significant role in the Violet Town Hall Committee. Her commitment, awards, and enthusiasm for nurturing community spirit and reducing isolation make her a cherished community leader. Pictured is Victorian Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt, 2023 Victorian Seniors Award recipient Robbie Rae, and Governor of Victoria Margaret Gardner AC. Photo: Supplied

There are six categories, including:

  • Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year for outstanding contribution to local community and Victoria
  • Promotion of Multiculturalism Award for promoting the benefits of cultural diversity
  • Healthy and Active Living Award for helping create active and healthy communities
  • Veteran Community Award for exceptional contributions to the veteran community
  • Ageing Well Award for combatting ageism and promoting ageing well initiatives
  • Council on the Ageing Victorian Senior Achiever Award for significant contribution to local communities and Victoria.

    The award ceremony will be held in October, coinciding with the annual Victorian Seniors Festival. All nominees will receive certificates acknowledging their contributions.

Nominations can be submitted digitally through a new online platform until August 11, streamlining how to nominate a deserving senior. Nominees must be aged 60 years or over, and 50 years or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians.

To make a nomination, visit Seniors Online and complete a nomination form at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/awards.