TASMANIA

Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards

2024 Winners

 

2024 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year - Ella Smalley

The Honorable Eric Abetz, Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Minister for Transport, and Leader of the House for the Tasmanian Government & Winner Ella Smalley

 

Spirit Super Connecting Communities Award

Charlotte of Lenah Valley and Zailee of Collinsvale, are two 14-year-old skateboard enthusiasts, who founded Shredding For CFT to blend their love for skateboarding with a commitment to helping those with cystic fibrosis. Their innovative challenges, including landing tricks at 65 iconic Hobart locations, have raised a collective $59,562 for Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania. Through community collaboration, they shattered stereotypes and empowered youth to make a difference in their community. Their impactful journey not only raised funds but also sparked conversations, broke down barriers and inspired others to join the cause. Charlotte and Zailee’s dedication and creativity exemplify the transformative power of passion and community-driven initiatives.

Winners Charlotte & Zailee & Chief Strategy Officer for Spirit Super, Ningning Lyons

 

Bean and Leaf Small Business Achiever Award

Heidi Genevieve Berry of Midway Point, is a Tasmanian entrepreneur who co-founded deadlysisu at sixteen, promoting sustainability through four retail outlets & the preloved market. Despite disability challenges, she champions inclusivity and environmental stewardship, recognised as a member of the Rosny Mob Landcare group and Clarence Climate Action Climate Champion. Committed to community service, Heidi served as an Electorate Officer, contributes to ALP branches and Neighbourhood House initiatives, now working at Mary Eleanor Natural Funeral Care. Winning Country to Canberra 2021 and volunteers as Tasmanian Membership Officer for EMILY’s List. Heidi pioneers sustainable fashion, empowers marginalised individuals, fosters an inclusive community, leaving a lasting impact on Tasmania.

Owner of Bean and Leaf - Vanessa-Lee Doller & Winner Heidi Genevieve Berry

 

Colony 47 Courage to Grow Award

Jess Deans, of Burnie has shown courage and resilience in overcoming numerous adversities through life; from growing up in a low socioeconomic household with limited supports to living with several medical conditions (Epilepsy, Type1 Diabetes, Endometriosis, Tachycardia and PTSD). Volunteering and working since 2011 in the community services sector, she's devoted over 20,000 hours to impacting countless lives and continually seeks out new opportunities for personal and professional growth; ensuring she has the relevant skills and knowledge to pair with her lived experience, in the pursuit of creating healthy , kind and inclusive communities. Jess's journey embodies hope, empowerment, and unwavering resilience.

Winner Jess Deans & Youth Engagement Officer for Colony 47, Renee Frost

 

Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award

Olly Dove, of Sandy Bay, is a dedicated advocate for science communication in lutruwita/Tasmania, having volunteered across four years in fostering engagement and celebration of STEMM professionals and students. As host and co-manager of That’s What I Call Science and co-founder of not-for-profit, STEMM Communicators Australia Ltd, Olly spends her free time working hard to produce episodes, with the show now having passed 225 episodes. In 2023, the team excitingly received national recognition with a prestigious Eureka Prize. Alongside the show, Olly also volunteers at other science events, performing and presenting for school groups and the public.

Councilor Heather Chong of Clarence City Council & Winner Olly Dove

 

Motors Tasmania Sports Award

Felicity Wilson-Haffenden, of Taroona at just 18, emerged as the Junior Time Trial World Champion and clinched three national and Oceania titles in 2023. Her swift rise in cycling showcases her talent and determination. Despite her accolades, Felicity remains committed to nurturing young athletes in Tasmania, serving as a role model and mentor. Her humility and dedication resonate deeply within the community, inspiring other athletes to reach for their dreams. Preparing to embark on her professional cycling journey in Europe in 2024, Felicity's impact on the sport and her support for youth development underscore her significance in the Tasmanian sporting landscape.

Winner Felicity Wilson-Haffenden (represented by sister) & Steve Feltham Dealer Principal Motors

 

Ochre-Rain Indigenous Achievement Award

Djuker Hart, of Trevallyn, is a dedicated advocate for indigenous culture, fosters understanding and empowers his community through cultural tours and performances. Despite personal challenges, including injuries and racial barriers, he perseveres, aiming to create opportunities for others and build indigenous businesses. His broad knowledge and passion for sharing culture break down barriers and inspire pride. Djuker's commitment to cultural preservation and community empowerment makes him a valuable candidate for recognition, as he strives to create a safe space for cultural learning and appreciation, leaving a lasting impact on all who engage with his work.

Uncle Rodney Dillon & Winner Djuker Hart & his son

 

Raw Strength Sports in the Community Award

William Blackaby, of Riverside rose from junior athlete to Race Director epitomises dedication and leadership in triathlon. His accolades include Tasmanian Junior Athlete of the Year titles and managing award-winning events, fostering sport and community engagement. William inspires others with his professionalism and commitment to excellence, leaving a lasting impact on the Tasmanian community. As a coach and educator, he nurtures young talent, while his skills shine in managing successful races. Despite initial doubts, he proves his legitimacy, becoming the youngest event organiser for a World Triathlon Event. Through resilience and skill, he champions inclusivity and promotes the joy of triathlon.

Winner William Blackaby & Owner of Raw Strength Tasmania, Matthew McKay

 

Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award

Shanae West, of Park Grove shows exceptional leadership at Secret Buddha Café and has transformed it into a vibrant community hub, marked by a remarkable 25% increase in revenue. Her innovative strategies, including structured service scripts and personalised staff training, have enhanced customer experiences and driven business success. Shanae's commitment to sourcing local products and engaging with the community through sponsorships has further solidified the café's reputation as a destination of choice in Tasmania. Her efforts showcase exemplary leadership and innovation in the hospitality sector, contributing significantly to the café's growth and the broader community.

CEO and Managing Director, Spirit of Tasmania, Bernard Dwyer & Winner Shanae West (represented by Julia Le)

 

St Lukes Healthier Communities Award

Ella Smalley, of Blackmans Bay is a final year PhD student at the Menzies Institute for Medical Research, Ella embodies resilience and dedication. Despite her battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma during her studies, she joined the Youth Cancer Action Board, advocating for improved cancer care for adolescents and young adults. Through her leadership, initiatives such as subsidised fertility preservation and advancements in mental health care have positively impacted cancer patients nationwide. Ella's unwavering commitment and achievements highlight her profound influence on enhancing healthcare outcomes for vulnerable populations, inspiring resilience in the face of adversity.

St Lukes Presenter - Kate Denmen, Souhern Regional Manager & Winner Ella Smalley

 

TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award

Corey Lee Barnes, of Herdsmans Cove, has made remarkable contributions to the disability sector as a regular volunteer. From supporting individuals at the Gagebrook Community Centre, to fostering inclusion at Futsal Tasmania and The Big Issue Community Soccer, Corey has shown exceptional dedication and leadership - culminating in representing his country at the Homeless World Cup. Corey shares his story to empower and uplift others, inspiring people to pursue their dreams despite obstacles and setbacks. Excelling in education, employment, and community service, Corey's achievements help to dispel persistent myths about what people with a disability can achieve and contribute.

Winner Corey Lee Barnes & Executive Officer, Uniting VIC and TAS, Jeremy Pettet