TASMANIA
Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
2023 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
2023 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year - Gavin Quek
The Honourable Jeremy Rockliff, Premier of Tasmania with winner Gavin Quek.
Spirit Super Connecting Communities
Isabella Dewar, 16 of Burnie is determined to try and help everyone around her. Isabella received her black belt in karate at the age of 14 in 2021. She went through an instructor’s course and is now a certified karate instructor. Isabella teaches self-defence for free to kids and adults who have been bullied. She also helps run empowerment programs for people who have been bullied.
Ningning Lyons, Chief Strategy Officer, Spirit Super with winner, Isabella Dewar.
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering
Gavin Quek, 25 of North Hobart is a dentist helping improve oral health awareness among Tasmanians. He volunteers with the Red Cross’s Bicultural Health Program, educating refugees on oral health. He provides pro-bono dental services to the marginalised through the Australian Dental Health Foundation. Gavin is also a Councillor and Secretary for the Australian Dental Association Tasmania and chairs its Oral Health Promotion Committee. He recently discussed oral health on TEDxHobart.
Heather Chong, Councillor, Clarence City Council with winner, Gavin Yi Feng Quek.
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities
Liz van Dongen, 25 of West Hobart is assisting people towards optimal health. Liz is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist who has Cystic Fibrosis (CF). She delivers “Running with CF’’ programs, presents at international webinars, and participates in a podcast series. In March 2022, Liz successfully assisted CF Australia’s campaign to have Trifakta, a drug that treats the underlying conditions of CF, be put on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
Kate Denmen, Customer Care Area Manager – South, St.LukesHealth with representative for winner, Alison Van Dongen.
Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality
Kitana Mansell - Palawa Kipli, 22 of Risdon Cove is strengthening her community by sharing cultural knowledge. A proud Palawa woman, Kitana works is responsible for managing Palawa Kipli, the first Tasmanian Aboriginal food business. The business catered for over 200 events from 2020 to 2021. They recently launched Kipli Takara Tours (bush tucker tours). Kitana has a Certificate III in Business and previously worked as an Aboriginal Business Trainee
Erika Panos, General Manager Marketing, Spirit of Tasmania with winner Kitana Mansell - Palawa Kipli.
First National Real Estate Leadership Award
Ryan Davis, 27 of Devonport is an Intensive Care Paramedic with Ambulance Tasmania. He provides clinical coaching to his peers and high-quality simulation training for interns. Ryan presented at the Australasian College of Paramedicine International Conference in 2021 to discuss the implementation of pre-hospital thrombolysis. Ryan is also part of the Ambulance Tasmania Clinical Advisory Committee, which makes decisions on the evolution of Paramedicine in Tasmania.
Helen Lehane, Principal, First National Real Estate Kingston with winner, Ryan Davis.
Dental South First Nations People Achievement Award
Jamie Graham-Blair, 28 of Tranmere is motivated to make his people proud. Jamie is a proud Trawlwoolway and Plangermairenner Pakana man. Working as an educator and learning support officer at St. Virgils College, he ensures that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have a sense of pride and empowerment within their education journey. Jamie also shares their history and culture as a lead guide with Wukalina Walk.
Dr Jess Manuela, Dentist & Director, Dental South with winner, Jamie Graham-Blair.
Colony 47 Courage to Grow Award
Paige Salter, 19 of Goodwood sacrificed her identity to follow her dreams. Paige overcame housing instability, mental health challenges and past trauma to pursue a dream career in hospitality. She completed a Certificate III in Tourism and Hospitality and undertook a work placement at Government House. Paige started an apprenticeship in December last year and in 2021, she obtained a house and has since lived independently.
Angela Abbott, Chief Operating Officer, Colony 47 with winner, Paige Salter.
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Mila Skingle, 16 of Bellerive is advocating for more inclusive learning and accessible facilities. Mila started volunteering with the Young Leaders of Tasmania (YLOT) Buddy Program in 2018. She continued with the YLOT Holiday Program before becoming a Paid Disability Support Worker. Mila is also a Commissioner of Children and Young People ambassador, advocating for her peers with a disability to influence politicians and government decision-makers.
Jeremy Pettet, Executive Officer, Uniting Tasmania with winner Mila Skingle.
Motors Tasmania Sports Award
Hamish McKenzie, 18 of Newstead is determined to grow as a person and cycler. Hamish is a cyclist who won in the Under 19 Time Trial Championship in January 2022. He represented the Australian U19 Road Team in the Wollongong World Championships in September 2022. Hamish recently completed his Level 1 cycling coaching course so he can work with junior athletes in his club.
Geoff Griffin, founder of Awards Australia with winner representative, Paul McKenzie.
Strategic Alliance Network Small Business Achiever Award
Courtney Hill - Dare Darlin, 27 of Riverside has a people-over-profit mentality. Courtney runs Dare Darlin, a restaurant located on the Tamar River of Launceston, known for creating exceptional experiences with Tasmania’s best produce and producers. Courtney pays her full-time staff a level above and constantly talks to the team about everything, all the time. She seeks out the community in every possible way to stay relevant and needed.
Vanessa-Lee Doller, President and Co-Founder, Strategic Alliance Network with winner Courtney Hill.
2022 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The 2021 Tasmanian Young Achiever Award Winners: L-R Billy Blackett, Aaron Benham, Kiara Adams, Anna Terry, MC Kim Millar 7 Tasmania, Caleb Nichols-Mansell, The Hon Elise Archer MP, Sheng-Yuan People's Choice Award Winner, Leanne O'Keefe, Gabrielle Andolfatto, Amy Smith, Nathan Volf.
2022 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year - Caleb Nichols-Mansell
The Honourable Elise Archer MP, Attorney-General, Minister for Justice, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Building and Construction, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Heritage, with Caleb Nichols-Mansell.
Spirit Super Create Change Award
Aaron Benham, 27 from West Hobart is a co-founder and the current Convenor of Repair Café Hobart (RCH), a space where community members can bring broken items from home and repair them with the help of volunteers with the skills and expertise. RCH aims to encourage a self-sufficient and sustainable repair culture. Aaron is a member of the Hobart branch of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition.
Ruvinda Nanayakkara, Manager Product and Innovation, Spirit Super with Aaron Benham
First National Real Estate Leadership Award
Nathan Volf 28, from Sandy Bay works at St Francis Flexi, a school catering to young people for whom the mainstream system does not suit. Starting as a Social Work student and gaining employment in a Generalist Youth Work, Nathan is now an Instructional Leader Wellbeing. He helped start an LGBTIQ group and organised a successful International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia to raise awareness.
Ray Ellis, CEO, First National Real Estate with Nathan Volf
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Kiara Adams 17, from Huonville has been diagnosed with Autism from age four and had a rough school life. Despite her troubles, she was a Grade A top student in Year 11 and has completed a Certificate II in Hospitality. She has starred in the lead role with the Huon Valley Theatre Company, even with speaking disabilities. Kiara is on her way to becoming an Autism Ambassador.
Jeremy Pettet, Executive Officer Uniting VIC/TAS, TADPAC Print with Kiara Adams
Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award
Anna Terry (Truffle Farm) 28, from Deloraine owns and operates their family business, The Truffle Farm, which showcases world-class black truffles and premium truffle products. Over time, the farm has evolved into a full-time agritourism business, offering tours and a farmgate shop and championing local food, wine and other beverages. In 2021, Anna became the youngest member of a 6-member panel discussing agritourism at the Tasmanian Tourism Conference.
Dean Collett, Chief Information Officer, Spirit of Tasmania with Anna Terry
Colony 47 Transition to Work Award
Leanne O’Keefe, 21 from Moonah works at Ludo Early Learning. Leanne had a traumatic childhood and lived with other youth under the care of CatholicCare Tasmania (CCT). With determination and commitment and support from her CCT Life Skills Educator, Leanne went back to school and completed Year 12. She accepted and commenced a traineeship and completed her Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.
Emma Graham, Transition to Work Coordinator, Colony47 with Leanne O'Keefe
Dental South First Nations People Achievement Award
Caleb Nichols-Mansell, 26 from Burnie is a proud Palawa man who founded Blackspace Creative, a website selling arts and crafts made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creatives in Tasmania. They also provide an avenue for the broader community to engage in and learn about their connections in a safe and respectful environment. Caleb left his job at UTas to work on Blackspace Creative full-time.
Dr Jess Manuela, Dentist & Director, Dental South with Caleb Nichols-Mansell
Qoin Small Business Achiever Award
Billy Blackett, 20 from Blackmans Bay founded Affordable Tutoring Tasmania (ATT) in July 2020, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, to tutor students who were struggling with online learning. ATT is a youth-led locally owned business that provides students of all ages and abilities with well-rounded and experienced-based academic support. In 2021, they have engaged over 40 tutors and delivered 2,446 lessons to 197 unique students.
Sunny Beatson, Owner of Beadoughs Donuts, Winner of last years Qoin Small Business Award with Billy Blackett
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award
Gabrielle Andolfatto 23, from New Town ensures that volunteers at Edge Radio are safe, engaging with community radio and having fun. In 2019, she trained volunteers in radio production and audio editing, helping them attain jobs in the media industry. Gabrielle works on a national youth community radio network, providing a platform for youth in leadership. She is the Youth Representative on the Community Broadcasting Association Australia board.
Alderman Heather Chong, Deputy Mayor, Clarence City Council with Gabrielle Andolfatto
Motors Tasmania Sports Award
Amy Smith 17, from Moonah was the youngest Tasmanian to play in the Women’s Big Bash League and the Women’s National Cricket League. Amy started playing cricket with boys at her local club as female competition at the time was not strong. She now plays for the Tasmanian Tigers and Hobart Hurricanes. Amy was named Tasmanian Young Female Player of the Year 2018/2019 and 2019/2020.
Terry Bienefelt, General Manager, Motors (Cars)
2021 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The 2021 Tasmanian Young Achiever Award Winners: L-R, Grace Tame, Holly Bowden, Bryce Tylor, Jessica Benge, Kaytlyn Johnson, The Hon Elise Archer MP, Bianca Templar, Raw Strength Tasmania, Liam Johnston, Lara Emmett
2021 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year - Kaytlyn Johnson
The Honourable Elise Archer MP, Attorney-General, Minister for Justice, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Building and Construction, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Heritage, with Kaytlyn Johnson
Spirit Super Create Change Award
Grace Tame 26 of Bellerive was groomed and sexually assaulted at 15 leading her to become an advocate for survivors of child sexual assault and a leader of positive change. Recognising the injustice of Tasmania’s gag order preventing survivors from self-identifying publicly, Grace joined the #LetHerSpeak campaign and in 2019 won the right to speak out under her own name. Grace is now focussed on encouraging survivors to share their stories without shame, education around grooming and helping form a federal system that supports the survivors, not just perpetrators. Grace is the 2021 Australian of the Year.
Ningning Lyons, Chief Strategy Officer, Spirit Super with Grace Tame
Dental South First Nations People Achievement Award
Bianca Templar 26 of Ravenswood is enhancing the voice of grassroots Tasmanian aboriginal voices. Bianca is a young Aboriginal woman who has worked to co-facilitate Come Walk With Us sessions as well as coordinate and execute the Launceston Black Lives Matter Vigil. Bianca has spoken on radio for the wide community to be further educated about issues Tasmanian Aboriginal People face and the politics involved. She has worked with the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Alliance. Bianca completed a Bachelor of Social Work. She was named the Tasmanian Aboriginal Youth of the Year at the 2020 NAIDOC awards.
Dr Jess Manuela, Dentist & Director, Dental South with Bianca Templar
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award
Lara Emmett 21 of Ulverstone is helping save lives, create great Australians and build better communities. In early 2020, Lara represented Tasmania at Surf Life Saving Australia’s National Leadership College - an annual leadership program recognising young leaders in SLS aged 20-30. She has been appointed Youth Representative on Life Saving Tasmania’s Lifesaving Executive Committee. Lara has also earned a place in the National Women’s Mentoring Program. She is the Founder and Chair of the Surf Life Saving Tasmania (SLST) Youth Committee and has become Deputy Coordinator for SLST’s Development Camp. Lara does all her volunteer work whilst being a full-time medical student in North Queensland.
Alderman Heather Chong, Deputy Mayor, Clarence City Council with Lara Emmett
Motors Tasmania Sports Award
Liam Johnston 18 of Underwood is committed to representing Australia. Liam is a National Representative in the sport of Mountain Biking - having been selected twice to represent Australia as a Junior (U19) at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships (Cross Country). He travelled to Canada and would have gone to Germany in 2020 if not for Covid-19. Liam also won second place at the 2019 Oceania Mountain Bike Champions. He won a Junior World Series race in Malaysia in December 2019. Liam is an active member of the Launceston Mountain Bike Club, where he shares his experiences with up-and-coming junior riders.
Bruce Davey, General Manager/Dealer Principal, Webster Trucks with Liam Johnston
First National Real Estate Leadership Award
Kaytlyn Johnson 19 of Lapoinya hopes to inspire Indigenous Women. Kaytlyn was selected as one of seven Student Ambassadors, as part of the celebration of 150 years of Public Education in Tasmania. She was a key member in “Project O” - a group of young women advocating for those without a voice. They held a ‘Colourathon’, which raised over $12,000 for women and children experiencing family violence. Kaytlyn was co-president of the Student Executive Council in high school and was the 2018 Tasmanian Indigenous Girls AFL Team captain. Receiving an ATAR of 96.4 in Year 12, she was accepted into the University of Melbourne and awarded the Chancellor’s Scholarship.
Ray Ellis, CEO, First National Real Estate with Kaytlyn Johnson
Qoin Small Business Achiever Award
BeaDoughs Donuts of Emu Heights is an inspiration to other young people who would like to do something great. BeaDoughs Donut was founded by 16-year-old Sunny Beatson during the Covid-19 lockdown. Sunny started making doughnuts from his mother’s kitchen to supplement his family’s income. BeaDoughs Donuts has expanded to a shopfront and commercial kitchen within six months, selling 500 donuts per day and hiring employees. Sunny has sought help from mentors and other businesses for marketing and sales advice. He used his own cash flow to bootstrap the business and takes no wage. Sunny also received the Young Citizen of the Year award in Burnie, Tasmania.
Belinda Baker, Qoin Master Agent with Jemma Sullivan representing Beadoughs Donuts
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities Award
Raw Strength Tasmania 29 of Rokeby is providing affordable, top-quality training to athletes, especially the disabled, aged and disadvantaged people. Raw Strength Tasmania has provided the pathway for drug-free strength within Tasmania. They ran a not-for-profit event, where they flew Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority (ASADA) to test the competitors, and have since run 12 events. They have run the only Para Lifting Competition in TAS history. They recently proposed to start a very low-cost gym in Clarendon Vale neighbourhood centre to provide health, fitness and well-being at hugely discounted prices. During Covid-19 lockdown, they provided free programs designed for home training for the elderly and vulnerable people.
Mel Lukianenko, Vice Chair, St.LukesHealth with Raw Strength Tasmania
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Jessica Benge 28 of Port Sorell works with Avidity Training and Development as trainer and assessor in the disability industry. She was previously a workshop facilitator for Autism Tasmania. She has worked at Latrobe High School, where she helped build a program to make transitioning to high school easier for those with a disability. Jessica started her career at Giant Steps Tasmania, a school specialised in working with people on the Autism Spectrum. Most importantly, she launched Racing with Autism Australia, a project that aims to support and share stories of people living on the Autism Spectrum. Jessica was also nominated for Young Australian of the Year 2020.
Lucas Walker, TADPAC Print with Jessica Benge
Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award
Holly Bowden 28 of Sandy Bay has promoted Tasmanian businesses in a very tough time. When Covid-19 hit, Holly grabbed the opportunity to pursue a childhood dream and started her own show called “Take on Tassie”. She mapped out and chose numerous regions around Tasmania, with the idea to present an ‘eat, play and stay’ element in each place. She would contact the business owners and write a script along with interviews of the owners. Her innovation allowed her to promote all of Tasmania’s hidden gems to Tasmanians and the rest of Australia, showing off the wonderful Tasmanian places whilst showcasing Tasmanian businesses and business owners.
Bernard Dwyer, Chief Executive Officer, Spirit of Tasmania with Holly Bowden
Colony 47 Transition to Work Award
Bryce Taylor 21 of Railton is not letting his disability get in the way of his success. Bryce has completed Certificate II in Automotive – TAFE 2018, learning loom building, component fabrication for ambulances and more. He has completed WHS induction components and tool maintenance and is able to adapt to different models of vehicles and state requirements. Diagnosed with Autism, Bryce struggled through school, being bullied for most of his school years and was then carried over into the workplace. He was unemployed for a while but has successfully gained employment at Mader International Pty/Ltd, a supportive workplace. Diagnosed with Autism, Bryce has struggled through school, being bullied for most of his school years.
Dianne Underwood, Director, Colony47 with Bryce Taylor
2020 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
Overall Winner - 2020 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year - Toby Thorpe
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities Award
Harriet Beattie, 28 of Scottsdale is extremely committed to the health and wellbeing of the Dorset community in a physical, social and emotional capacity, which she has demonstrated through various roles. Harriet is currently a Rural Physical Health worker for the Royal Flying Doctor Service where she delivers group and individual cardiac & pulmonary rehabilitation programs along with other exercise-based care plans for individuals suffering from chronic conditions. Harriet has successfully increased the physical activity of people aged 50-85 and the number of people completing cardiopulmonary rehabilitation living in rural and remote areas. She provides educational health programs and runs a free weekly group exercise program.
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award
Toby Thorpe, 18 of Huonville led the Energy Futures Team at Huonville High School to become the sole Australian finalist in the International Zayed Sustainability Prize and the winner of $100,000 (US). Toby has represented his community twice at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and spoke at multiple e-meetings across the world. He organised the first ever state-wide Climate Leaders Conference in Hobart, attracting over 350 students and professionals and is an active member of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition. Toby volunteers for Switched on Schools and has empowered young people to take action against climate change through the role of Youth Facilitator at Education for Sustainability Tasmania.
First National Real Estate Leadership Award
Gabrielle Dewsbury, 17 of Newnham pioneered the School Strike 4 Climate movement which is a student-led movement fighting for climate justice. She has led multiple Climate Strikes including the first Northern Strike in Tasmania and set up a Student Wellbeing Committee at her school. Gabrielle leads the “Health is Wealth” initiative, which runs workshops focused on mental health and wellbeing and has partnered with Beyond Blue to expand Nationally. Gabrielle is on multiple committees including the Australian Youth Climate Coalition and speaks at conferences and forums around the state. She has won multiple awards and represented Tasmania at the UN Youth Aotearoa Leadership Tour.
Dental South Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award
Jordy Gregg, 22 of Glenorchy is a passionate teacher, actor writer and film maker. In 2018, Jordy played the part of Laertes in Hamlet which went on to win Tasmania’s Best Professional Production. He has been the lead tour guide for the Bay of Fires Walk and worked closely with educational facilities such as the Lambert School where he gives music lessons. Jordy has given talks to students at Clarence High School regarding jobs and potential career paths and taught children at the Aboriginal Children’s Center about acting, drama and social dynamic skills. He is currently writing a theatre show which has attracted national interest.
Motors Tasmania Sports Award
Kate Eckhart, 22 of West Hobart is a Canoe Slalom athlete and has represented Australia for almost seven years. During that time she has won countless awards, some of which include; second and third place at the Junior world championships, third place at the senior world championships, third place at the Australian open K1, 6th place at the U/23 World Canoe Slalom and third place at the World Championships U/23 World Canoe Slalom Championships. Kate has held a scholarship for the Tasmanian Institute of Sport and Paddle Australia since 2013 and is an amazing role model for other athletes at the Tasmanian Institute of Sport.
Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award
Benjamin Coe, 23 of Flowery Gully is a tour guide and supervisor at Platypus House. Ben is responsible for running the tours, assisting staff, and liaising with tour directors. His passion lies with animals and touring, which is evident from the hundreds of customer service reviews highlighting his friendly, enthusiastic persona when hosting the tours. Ben’s efforts have led to the opening of a Platypus Exhibit at San Diego Zoo and took him to the Finalist stage in Chilli 90.1fm's Champions of Tourism Awards. Ben’s shining personality and positive attitude allows him to lead his team by example and improve the efficiency of the group.
Colony 47 Transition to Work Award
Jan Richards, 18 of Latrobe is a determined, energetic young woman. In 2019 she completed her Certificate II in Community Services focusing on Children’s Services and a Certificate III in Hospitality. Jan is currently completing a traineeship within the Child Care industry as well as a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. She completed these whilst also working part time to support herself. Jan participated in the planning and running of Play Group sessions that were provided to the parents and children within their community.
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Heidi La Paglia, 26 of Hobart is an advocate for young women with disabilities, like herself. Heidi undertook leadership roles for the Tasmania University Union and National Union of Students where she assisted women with disabilities with their welfare and participation. She worked to assist individuals in accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme in her roles working for Federal Members of the Australian Labor Party, Senator Carol Brown and the Hon Julie Collins MP. As the Content Officer for Women With Disabilities Australia's virtual centre project, Heidi worked extensively with individuals with disabilities across Australia to develop content for their website 'Our Place’ which was launched in March.
Travel Associates Career Achievement Award
Shannon Umgeher, 25 of Murdunna is a young and successful entrepreneur. In 2014 he completed his study of residential drafting at TasTAFE, after which he became Store Manager at the Brighton IGA where he managed 23 staff members. During this time he also established and successfully operated his own garden maintenance business. In 2017 Shannon took the next step in his career and became the owner of the Murdunna Roadhouse, a small service station and general store. Since Shannon purchased the business he has been able to expand the building, product line, and services offered, and has single-handedly doubled the business’s stock, customers and sales.
2019 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The 2019 Winners with The Honourable Will Hodgman MP, Premier of Tasmania and Jo Palmer, News Presenter, 7 Tasmania
Overall Winner - Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Matthew Etherington, 23 of SANDY BAY is committed to helping people experiencing disability and disadvantage in his community. Matthew helps promote healthier communities through the Big Issue Community Street Soccer Program, using sports to empower and improve the lives of the disadvantaged. He organised a Mental Health First Aid Initiative at UTAS to prepare over 330 students to exercise self-care, promote mental health and encourage peer support. He is a national Youth Health Forum member and former Head of Welfare at UN Youth and the Tasmanian Youth Local Government. Matthew also led the organising committee of the Red Cross Social Connectedness Summit during Mental Health Week 2018.
The 2019 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year, Matthew Etherington with The Honourable Will Hodgman MP, Premier of Tasmania
Colony 47 Transition to Work Award
Alex Morris Baguley, 28 of LESLIE VALE is proof that a positive attitude can overcome challenges. Despite being diagnosed with several conditions, including Down Syndrome and ADHD, Alex’s family fought hard to ensure she had access to the same education and training opportunities as other people her age. After finishing Year 12, she worked at Australian Disability Enterprise. Alex then joined the Hamlet, Inc. training program where she learned about customer service. To date, Alex has become an integral member of the Hamlet team, completing more than 500 hours of work. She is now undertaking the advanced training model, learning Barista basics and further catering skills.
Danny Sutton, Chief Executive Officer, Colony 47 with Alex Morris Baguley
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award
Campbell Remess, 14 of ACTON PARK has handmade and gifted over 1,700 bears to children worldwide through his initiative, “Project 365 by Campbell”. He gives presents to children in hospital during Christmas and has helped raised $200,000 for charities. Campbell created Kindness Cruises, a charity which raises funds for surprise cruises for families impacted by cancer and other life-changing difficulties. He has released two books encouraging children to follow their dreams. He is also a regular speaker at schools where he discusses the impact of kindness as opposed to bullying. Campbell received the CNN Heroes, Young Wonder Award in 2016, the first Australia to do so.
Heather Chong, CEO, QEW Orchards with Campbell Remess
Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award
Elias Solis, 29 of NEW TOWN wants to bring Latin culture to Hobart. A son of Chilean emigrant parents, he established the Yambu café, a vibrant home for Latin American food, culture and music. Over the last decade, Elias has initiated events celebrating Latin American culture where he was either a producer, leader, musical director or key player in Latin American bands. He organised Pop-Up Day of the Dead Festivals. Elias organised workshops in percussion and hosted Spanish language classes and organised fundraising events for study tours to Cuba for young Tasmanians. He is also a key member of the Latin American Cultural Association of Tasmania.
Nick Harriman, General Manager, Retail & Hospitality, Spirit of Tasmania with Elias Solis
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Karita Casimaty, 29 of MOONAH was the first Tasmanian to develop and offer the internationally recognised Duke of Edinburgh Award to young people diagnosed with a disability. She has successful delivered the program since 2015, showcasing her leadership skills, and ensuring that clear expectations and guidelines were outlined from the beginning. In 2018, Karita was asked to deliver a speech to His Royal Highness Prince Edward at Government House during the royal visit, explaining the benefits of the award to young people with disability. Karita is currently the Oakdale Training Service Supervisor, planning and delivering transition to work training to young adults diagnosed with a disability.
Jeremy Pettet, Executive Officer, Uniting VIC/TAS with Karita Casimaty
Dental South Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Achievement Award
Zac Romagnoli-Townsend, 25 of NUBEENA advocates for climate justice. A proud Mutwintje man, he is a coordinator for the Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Justice Network. As part of the Network, he coordinates ten young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander volunteers and collaborates with the local Australian Youth Climate Coalition with non-Indigenous volunteers. Zac helps facilitate national trainings, gatherings and campaigns as a member of the national core Seed team. One campaign successfully prevented bank funding of an Adani coal mine. Zac facilitates and speaks in workshops and grassroots community organisations to build a social movement to keep all new fossil fuels in the ground.
Dr Jessica Manuela, Director, Dental South with Zac Romagnoli-Townsend
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities Award
Matthew Etherington, 23 of SANDY BAY is committed to helping the disabled and disadvantaged in his community. Matthew helps promote healthier communities through the Big Issue Community Street Soccer Program, using sports to empower and improve the lives of the disadvantaged. He organised a Mental Health First Aid Initiative at UTAS to prepare over 330 students to exercise self-care, promote mental health and encourage peer support. He is a national Youth Health Forum member and Head of Welfare at UN Youth and the Tasmanian Youth Local Government. Matthew also led the organising committee of the Red Cross Social Connectedness Summit during Mental Health Week 2018.
Peter Murfett, Director, St.LukesHealth with Matthew Etherington
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Grace Birchall, 24 of SHEARWATER is a compassionate teacher. She teaches English, Geography and Dance at Ulverstone High School. During lunch hours, Grace teaches students who wish to dance outside normal class schedules, and coordinates song and dance performances in a community theatre. During weekends, Grace teaches persons with Down Syndrome at the Bright Stars Troupe, helping to release their inhibitions and perform at community functions. She attends professional development opportunities, continuously seeks feedback about her teaching capabilities and is always the first to implement different classroom strategies. Grace provides an inviting environment, empathises with her individual students and implements mindfulness in her room.
Professor Karen Swabey, Dean & Head of School - Faculty of Education, UTAS with Grace Burchall
First National Real Estate Leadership Award
Samuel Watson, 18 of ULVERSTONE is an advocate for LGBTIQ rights. He was Head Boy and Student Representative at The Friends’ School providing a strong focus on diversity. A senior Navy Cadet, Samuel mentored ten refugees through a ten-day Rotary Windeward Bound Youth Leadership Challenge. He is an Advisory Group member for the Commission for Children and Young People and served on the Hobart Youth Advisory Squad. As 2018 Youth Deputy Premier, his group passed a Gender Equality Bill that was handed to Government. He has also patrolled Tasmanian beaches for over 250 hours and has been his club’s Surf Life Saver of the Year.
John McGregor, Director, First National Real Estate McGregor with Samuel Watson
Motors Tasmania Sports Award
Daniel Watkins, 23 of GROVE and is a competitive athlete who has had an outstanding year in both Kayak and Canoe Slalom. He was selected to represent Australia in the U23 World Championships where he placed a creditable 6th in the C1 and 14th in the K1. He won gold in the U23 Aus Open K1 and the Nationals K1 and C1 divisions. Daniel’s biggest achievement to date is winning in the U23 K1 and C1 divisions at 2018 Oceania Championships in Auckland. He makes sure to give back to the community by volunteering his time to help coach and mentor junior paddlers in Hobart.
Campbell York, General Manager, Motors Hobart with Daniel Watkins
2018 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The 2018 Winners with The Hon Jacquie Petrusma and Jo Palmer, Southern Cross Television Presenter
Overall Winner - Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Kirby Medcraft, 29 of Lutana is Assistant Principal at Windermere Primary School where she has brought about significant change, particularly in regards to family engagement. Her K-2 ‘Counting Bags’ take home Maths activities had a 100% involvement from families. And the ‘Bedtime Stories’ afternoon saw over 200 parents attend school to read with their child. In her role, Kirby works closely with early childhood teachers, mentoring them and modeling best practice.
The 2018 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year, Angela Crane who represented Kirby Medcraft with The Hon. Jacquie Petrusma MP
The Coffee Club Arts and Fashion Award
Stephanie Eslake, 27 of Sandy Bay has both media and music degrees. She founded ‘CutCommon’, Australia's online publication for young classical musicians and was shortlisted in the 2017 NEXT Innovation Award. Stephanie has written program notes for Symphony Orchestras and hosted radio programs. She is the sub-editor for Warp Magazine and Undertow Magazine and co-editor and publications mentor for Platform Magazine. Stephanie was 2017 Young Citizen of the Year for her artistic contribution
Jason Travis, Regional Development Manager TAS, The Coffee Club with Stephanie Eslake
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Kirby Medcraft, 29 of Lutana is Assistant Principal at Windermere Primary School where she has brought about significant change, particularly in regards to family engagement. Her K-2 ‘Counting Bags’ take home Maths activities had a 100% involvement from families. And the ‘Bedtime Stories’ afternoon saw over 200 parents attend school to read with their child. In her role, Kirby works closely with early childhood teachers, mentoring them and modeling best practice.
Associate Professor Karen Swabey, Dean and head of School, University of Tasmania Faculty of Education with Angela Crane who represented Kirby Medcraft
First National Real Estate Leadership Award
Grant Milbourne, 28 of Lenah Valley founded I’ME or Insight Mindfulness Education. The not-for-profit organisation supports youth wellbeing and mental health. They provide meditation retreats and professional development programs. Their school based programs develop stress management skills and strategies for teachers and students. Grant has volunteered over 2,000 hours and organised a concert that raised $14,000 for I’ME. The website and Facebook provide resources, tips and strategies for meditation, managing stress and psychological wellbeing.
Ray Ellis, CEO, First National Real Estate with Grant Milbourne
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award
Olivia Fleming, 21 of Rosny Park founded The Little Help Project during her first year studying medicine. The Project tackles mental health issue and empowers young people. The not-for-profit has 25 volunteers and has helped 8,000 Tasmanians build resilience and self-esteem. Olivia oversees self-defence and development classes and an outreach program educating women about confidence, consent, and boundaries. She has volunteered in over 30, week long programs, facilitated camps and many community programs.
Alderman Heather Chong, CEO, QEW Orchards with Olivia Fleming
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Jack Dyson, 20 of Rokeby has made a significant contribution to Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania raising awareness and funds. In his many media appearances he talks openly about his personal challenges with CF. Jack’s first You Tube video, “Iron Lungs” has nearly 3,500 views, was filmed from his hospital bed. Using Social Media, he has become an inspirational role model, motivating others with his body building to improve his CF and talking honestly about mental health.
Jeremy Pettet, CEO, TADPAC Print with Jack Dyson
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities Award
Nadine Ozols, 29 of Bicheno has worked in the health and aged care sector for 10 years and is currently the Public Relations and Development Manager working across May Shaw Health Centre and Aged Care Deloraine. She has facilitated health and wellbeing programs such as Guided Relaxation Sessions, Women’s Health Days and Youth Health Days. Nadine is a graduate of the Tasmanian Leaders Program for high potential leaders and has volunteered an estimated 800 hours.
Peter Murfett, Director, St.LukesHealth with Nadine Ozols
Spirit of Tasmania Tourism and Hospitality Award
Tara Howell, 27 of Launceston founded Blue Derby Pods Ride a three-day, soft-adventure mountain biking experience in Derby. The guests indulge in Tasmanian food and wine, and stay in unique, architecturally designed accommodation pods. Tara created a tourism development plan and received a $500,000 grant. She has a 50-year lease on land in Derby Regional Reserve where the infrastructure has been built. Blue Derby is in its third year of operation, with four employees.
Nick Harriman, General Manager, Retail & Hospitality, Spirit of Tasmania with Tara Howell
Motors Tasmania Sports Award
Madeleine Fasnacht, 18 of Blackmans Bay was the 2017 Commonwealth Youth Games Closing Ceremony Flag Bearer and named the 2017 Australian Junior Cyclist. She was placed first at the Commonwealth Youth Games in the Individual Time Trial and 3rd at the World Junior Road Championship. She won the 2017 Junior Oceania Road Championships and was 3rd at the Commonwealth Youth Games. Madeleine recently achieved bronze for the under-19s women’s time trial at the World Championships.
Campbell York, General Manager, Motors Hobart with Madeleine Fasnacht
Colony 47 Young Indigenous Achievement Award
Madelena Andersen-Ward, 26 of Margate has a Bachelor of Music and is a singer and songwriter. She is actively engaged in the indigenous community through community performances and festivals. She is promotes education to Indigenous youth and has spoken on radio and at schools. Madelena mentored young musicians in the Indigenous Tutorial Assistance Scheme. She is currently of one of the seven contemporary voice roles in a new musical and visual project called A Tasmanian Requiem.
Elizabeth Daly OAM, Northern Manager, for Colony 47 with Madelena Andersen-Ward
2017 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The Hon Will Hodgman MP and The Hon Elise Archer MP with the 2017 winners at the Gala Presentation Dinner
Overall Winner - Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Dr Jessica Manuela, 28 of Blackmans Bay is a qualified oral care professional, dedicated to raising awareness of oral health. Opening her own practice two years ago, she already has 3,000 registered patients. Jessica also volunteers 20 to 30 hours each week, speaking with school students about oral hygiene and running community information evenings. She is the chairperson for the Oral Health Promotion Committee of the Tasmanian Dental Association and was awarded the 2012 New Zealand and Australian Society of paediatrics award
Colony 47 Young Indigenous Achievement Award
Jacob Prehn, 29 of Kingston has dedicated six years to improving Tasmanian Aboriginal health outcomes. He is the volunteer Deputy chairman of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Association. Jacob works part-time in Aboriginal Research and Leadership at the University of Tasmania and his PHD will focus on men’s mental health to improve the health outcomes of Aboriginal people. Jacob is working with the CEO of Karadi to build the state’s first Aboriginal men’s shed.
The Coffee Club Arts and Fashion Award
Tyler Richardson, 29 of Sandy Bay is the self-taught lead singer and songwriter for punk rock band, Luca Brasi. Tyler has 40 songs credited to him over five record releases; the last three charting on the ARIA chart. Luca Brasi have won multiple awards including Best Punk Band in 2016. The band has performed to 40,000 people across Australia, UK and Europe and their upcoming Australian headline tour is sold out. In addition to passionately promoting Tasmania, Tyler fundraises for LGBTIQ youth, refugees and Indigenous causes.
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service & Volunteering Award
Mohammad Nourouzi, 23 of South Launceston arrived as a refugee in 2013 with no English. He is a volunteer interpreter and at The Door of Hope and fixes bicycles and cars for those in need. Mohammad is active in his Afghan Hazara community, promoting cultural activities and inclusion. He is a volunteer leader for Tasmania Parks and Wildlife and a Green Army conservation volunteer. Mohammad is also a member of the Migrant Resource Centre’s Youth Advisory Network and worked for Red Cross.
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities Award
Dr Jessica Manuela, 28 of Blackmans Bay is a qualified oral care professional, dedicated to raising awareness of oral health. Opening her own practice two years ago, she already has 3,000 registered patients. Jessica also volunteers 20 to 30 hours each week, speaking with school students about oral hygiene and running community information evenings. She is the chairperson for the Oral Health Promotion Committee of the Tasmanian Dental Association and was awarded the 2012 New Zealand and Australian Society of paediatrics award.
TADPAC Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Shai Denny, 22 of Ridgely was born with Downs Syndrome and is a tireless ambassador for people with a disability. Employed with Family Based Care Association, she worked as Co-Director of "PULSE", a project for people with a disability to become involved in arts based performances. Shai created and taught most of the choreography and assisted in all production decisions including the costuming and presentation of acts. Shai volunteers at countless organisations and is currently studying child care.
Motors Group Tasmania Sports Award
Ariarne Titmus, 16 of Launceston is an Australian swimming star. In 2016, she was selected as the youngest team member of the Australian Dolphins World Short Course Swimming team to compete in Canada. She made the finals in three divisions of the World Open Short Course Championships, finishing 4th in two races and 6th in another. She is also ranked 1st in Australia for the short course open 400m freestyle and 8th internationally for the short course 800m freestyle.
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education, Teaching Excellence Award
Caitlin Cashion, 27 of Huntingfield is an Advanced Skills Teacher at Fairview Primary School and is passionate about helping ‘at-risk’ and ‘dis-engaged’ students. She is currently studying a Masters of Education and uses her research to implement programs to engage students. In collaboration with Beacon Foundation, Caitlin led an Alternative Learning Day for year 7 to 10 students providing hands-on, real world relevance and problem solving sessions. Caitlin has been Acting Principal and mentors colleagues through modelling, research and leading professional development sessions.
2016 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The Hon Elise Archer MP with the 2016 winners at the Gala Presentation Dinner
Overall Winner - Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Mitch McPherson, 28 of Tranmere established “SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY” after his younger brother Ty took his own life in 2013. The charity aims to prevent suicide by spreading the message that nothing is so bad that you can’t talk about it. Mitch has presented to more than 150 schools and sporting clubs and will roll out a school program this year. The Tasmanian State Football League dedicated one round to raise funds and awareness. Mitch has raised over $120,000 in funds and Speak Up Stay ChatTY has almost 11,000 Facebook followers.
CEO for St.LukesHealth, Chris Williams presented Mitch McPherson with the Healthier Communities Award
AustralianSuper Career Kick Start Award
Charlotte Hunn, 28 of Kingston founded COMET, or Community Engagement Tasmania. COMET trains law students to provide education for disadvantaged and homeless youth on key aspects of criminal law and the justice system. Charlotte was awarded the Sandy Duncanson Social Justice Bursary for The COMET Project. She received the LexisNexis Prize for achieving the highest mark in Criminology and has accepted a position as research assistant on the National Jury Project with the Tasmanian Law Reform Institution. Charlotte has also volunteered for Colony 47 and the Tasmanian Asylum Seekers Support Network.
Business Partnership Manager for AustralianSuperm Randolph Nevis presented Charlotte Hunn with the Career Kick Start Award
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service Award
Eva MacKinley, 25 of Sandy Bay founded The Last Straw, a campaign to eliminate the use of plastic straws across Australia, encouraging a plastic free and zero waste life. She is Director of Global Partners for Change, a start-up program supporting young Kenyan people to create social change programs for their communities. Eva was the first Tasmanian Ambassador for the 2014 One Young World Summit in Dublin and Youth delegate to the 2013 Rotary International Peace Conference. She is a member of the Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee and Youth Council.
Alderman Heather Chong presented Eva McKinley with the Community Service Award
The Coffee Club Arts and Fashion Award
Halina Kaufman, 28 of Lenah Valley has had a successful career in jewellery manufacturing with two regional and a National gold medal for WorldSkills. She received an international team leadership challenge scholarship and an International Specialised Skills Institute fellowship. Halina has been a finalist five times in Australian Design Awards. She trained with master engravers in Florence and Louisiana and a specialist diamond setter in The Netherlands. Halina is a judge and project designer for the WorldSkills jewellery competitions and aims in the future to be the Jewellery Expert.
Director of The Coffee Club, John Lazarou presented Halina Kaufman with the Arts and Fasion Award
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education, Teaching Excellence Award
Samuel Morey, 28 of Berriedale began teaching at St Therese’s Catholic Primary school as the PE teacher and in 2014 was appointed Assistant Principal of St Paul's Catholic Primary School in Bridgewater. Sam implemented the extra-curricular ‘Kickstart’ and ‘Accelerator’ sessions, for students who have anxiety towards learning and providing acceleration opportunities for capable students. He was awarded a “Growing in Leadership: Emerging Leaders Award” by the Australian Council of Educational Leaders. Sam volunteers his time coaching and facilitating St Therese’s soccer, basketball, athletics and Cross Country Teams, and has been appointed mentor and talent development coach with Athletics Tasmania.
Acting Dean of the Faculty of Education, University of Tasmania, Professor Karen Swabey presnented Samuel Morey with the Teaching Excellence Award
Motors Group Tasmania Sports Award
Jacob Birtwhistle, 20 of Launceston won the 2015 under-23 Triathlon World Championship. One of the top men on each leg of the triathlon, he separated himself from a five-man front pack to ultimately win the race and take home the World Champion honour. He was the 2014 world junior duathlon and junior world championship silver medallist. Jacob took 1st and 2nd places in four out of seven triathlons last year. Jacob will now challenge for a spot in the Olympic team for Rio.
State Sales Manager for Motors Group Tasmania, Angela Travers presented James' representative with the Sports Award
Tadpac Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Carrie Leppard, 26 of Glenorchy has raised over $17,000 for Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania. When her daughter Charlotte was born with CF, Carrie wanted to create community awareness. She has spoken publicly about the importance of undertaking testing for carrying the CF gene, and about the challenges of parenting a child with Cystic Fibrosis. Carrie set up the ‘Cystic Fibrosis Support Group and Advice Australia’, Facebook page which now has 400 active members. The group allows parents and carers to discuss issues around their child's CF in a supportive environment.
Chairman of TADPAC Print, Ross Copping presented Carrie Leppard with the Service to the Disability Sector Award
Colony 47 Young Aboriginal Achievement Award
Teangi Brown, 21 of Bellerive works at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, running educational programs and guided tours on Tasmanian Aboriginal culture and history. He is often requested to speak at functions on the history of Tasmanian Aboriginal people. Teangi also successfully operates his own business as an Aboriginal Interpretation guide for schools on cultural camps. He has participated in the Tasmanian Youth Forum and the National Indigenous Youth Parliament. He volunteers for Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre's Land care with Parks and Wildlife and regularly performs Welcome to Country at community events.
CEO of Colony 47, Therese Taylor presnted Teangi Brown with the Aboriginal Achievement Award
St.LukesHealth Healthier Communities Award
Mitch McPherson, 28 of Tranmere established “SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY” after his younger brother Ty took his own life in 2013. The charity aims to prevent suicide by spreading the message that nothing is so bad that you can’t talk about it. Mitch has presented to more than 150 schools and sporting clubs and will roll out a school program this year. The Tasmanian State Football League dedicated one round to raise funds and awareness. Mitch has raised over $120,000 in funds and Speak Up Stay ChatTY has almost 11,000 Facebook followers.
CEO for St.LukesHealth, Chris Williams presented Mitch McPherson with the Healthier Communities Award
2015 Winners of the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards
The Hon Elise Archer MP with the 2015 winners at the Gala Presentation Dinner
Overall Winner - The Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Dr Lila Landowski, 28 of North Hobart is a neuroscientist investigating nerve regeneration specifically in peripheral neuropathy. She is currently conducting a trial focusing on a treatment for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, a debilitating condition that affects the nerve fibres carrying information between the brain and body. Her work has been presented at 11 high profile national and international conferences, and she has trained with the Mayo Clinic cementing her status as an emerging leader in the field of peripheral nerve injury. An enthusiastic volunteer, Dr Landowski gives her time to cancer support services and science outreach activities, and also teaches medical students and dementia care professionals about health science.
First National Real Estate Leadership & Innovation Award
Waqas Durrani, 26 of Hobart has been awarded the Vice Chancellor’s and Rotary Leadership Awards, and the International Student of the Year for his initiatives in promoting inclusion whilst celebrating student diversity. Speaking five languages, Waqas interprets for refugees and migrants at the Royal Hobart Hospital, Law Courts and Schools. He organised the "Lollywood Gala" at Mona Museum and other multicultural events such as Islam Awareness Week and “Fast With Us” to promote tolerance and harmony. Waqas was also instrumental in initiating changes within the Universities cafeteria to cater for varying cultural dietary requirements.
Heather & Christopher Chong Community Service Award
Mitch McPherson, 27 of Tranmere has over the last two years spent an estimated 1,200 volunteer hours creating his charity "Speak up stay chatTY" after losing his younger brother Ty, to suicide in 2013. He is changing the way in which people look at mental health. Mitch plans community and charity events for "Speak up stay chatTY", including the sale of over 7,000 car bumper stickers, the Stay ChatTY Cup - a local football match in the Tasmanian League between Clarence and Lauderdale and an annual quiz night which has raised over more than $30,000 in the past two years.
AustralianSuper Career Kick Start Award
Andrew Millhouse, 24 of Kingston completed his Bachelors Degree in Arts/Law with honours in 2014. He has provided countless voluntary hours of support to young people from all walks of life with free facilitation services to a number of organisations that work with young people including AYCC, Students of Sustainability and the Oaktree Foundation. In 2013, Andrew created Slingshot Training - a social enterprise to help young people become the best they can be - support others, overcoming challenges and discovering success. Andrew is currently looking at how Slingshot can support young people experiencing anxiety and depression.
The Coffee Club Arts and Fashion Award
Lyndon Riggall, 25 of Riverside won the Hot Key Books Young Writers' Prize in 2013 for his first children's novel "Charlie in the Dark," and is now working on a second book called "The Drift." Lyndon has a deep commitment to assisting the next generation of writers acting as a judge for the Children's Book Council of Australia, a marker for the Tasmanian Qualifications Authority assessing creative writing folios, and a workshop facilitator for Tasmanian students and teachers. Lyndon is currently compiling a portfolio of short stories which he hopes to submit to the Clarion Writers' Workshop in San Diego.
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Zane Littlejohn, 28 of Summerhill is organised, prepared and professional, and values the time necessary for him to support and train practicum teachers through University of Tasmania’s student internship program as he has done for the last five years whilst working at City Campus. Working with the Principal and School Community, Zane was instrumental in creating the Culture implementation called the "VOICE" which was designed to give students a voice and the World of Work Program Health and Wellbeing program. He was also the 2014 Tasmanian State League Coach of the Year Award Winner.
Zane Littlejohn was represented by his mother Lisa Hardy
Colony 47 Aboriginal Achievement Award
Kartanya Maynard, 21 of Glenorchy is a student at the UTAS Conservatorium of Music. She won the 2011 Tasmanian Aboriginal Artist of the year, the 2013 Tasmanian Young Aboriginal Person of the Year, was the youngest person ever elected to the Tasmanian Aboriginal State Committee and performs at the Putalina Festival each year. Kartanya is dedicated to cultural revival and education providing vocal coaching to a women’s Aboriginal singing group and teaches children about Tasmanian Aboriginal history. She is an interpreter in Aboriginal Culture at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and plans to write more songs in her language for future generations to follow
Tasmanian Institute of Sport Sports Award
Macey Stewart, 19 of Devonport had an amazing 2014, winning three Junior World Cycling Championships in the Junior Women’s Team and Individual Pursuits in Korea. She has recently also been crowned the 2014 junior national track and road cyclist and the overall outstanding junior cyclist of the year.After winning the Junior Women Individual Time Trial at the Road World Championships in Italy last September, Macey is now representing Australia at Senior International level. Awarded the 2012 Devonport Young Citizen of the year, Macey is a great role model for cycling and women's sport and an advocate for safe riding in Tasmania.
Macey Stewart was represented by her brother Andrea Stewart
Tadpac Print Service to the Disability Sector Award
Meg Cooper, 23 of Sandy Bay gives endless volunteer hours planning and running classes for BrightStars – the Southern Dance Group of Down Syndrome Tasmania and is a strong advocate for people with disabilities. Meg is an excellent role model and friend to her brother who has Down Syndrome, assisting her family with his care. Working within the Arts Program at Cosmos, a non-profit organisation offering learning and leisure opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities, Meg is described as the “gold star standard’” for support workers where it’s not just about work, but it’s a true vocation
Tasmanian Early Years Foundation Excellence Award
Stacey Hall, 27 of Orielton developed her love for helping children in year 11, choosing to enrol in "working with children" at Rosny College. She has since successfully completed her Diploma of Children's Services and is currently employed at Lady Gowrie Tasmania. Stacey is the Team leader and heads a team of six educators and mentors new educators and students. Stacey leads by example and is always inclusive in her practices ensuring educators are worthy contributors. Working 72 hours each week in the baby’s room which is a highly demanding position, she goes above and beyond for the children in her care
St.LukesHealth Health and Wellbeing Award
Dr Lila Landowski, 28 of North Hobart is a neuroscientist investigating nerve regeneration specifically in peripheral neuropathy. She is currently conducting a trial focusing on a treatment for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, a debilitating condition that affects the nerve fibres carrying information between the brain and body. Her work has been presented at 11 high profile national and international conferences, and she has trained with the Mayo Clinic cementing her status as an emerging leader in the field of peripheral nerve injury. An enthusiastic volunteer, Dr Landowski gives her time to cancer support services and science outreach activities, and also teaches medical students and dementia care professionals about health science.
2014 Winners
The 2014 Winners at the Gala Presentation Dinner
Bokart Print Arts and Cultural Development Award and The Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Joshua Lowe, 27 of Rose Bay has a Bachelor of Dance. In 2007 he founded DRILL Performance Company to provide young people in Launceston with work. Joshua is Artistic Director of DRILL Performance Company in Hobart, Festival Director for Short+Sweet Dance and Program Producer for Yellow Wheel in Melbourne. He has been mentored by eminent Australian choreographer Becky Hilton, Artistic Director Emma Porteus, Adam Wheeler and also Brooke Stamp during a residency in France. Whilst in Europe he saw over 30 performances and participated in 14 workshops. In 2013 he worked on Tasdance's first DanceNET program and in 2014 will undertake a highly competitive Asialink residency and finish choreographing the project with Tasdance for national release.
First National Real Estate Leadership and Innovation Award
Adam Mostogl, 26 of Queenstown is a leader with the Door of Hope Christian Church in Launceston and also runs his own business, illuminate SDF. He started illuminate SDF in 2009 which focuses on delivering meaningful and inspiring experiences for students in Grade 9 and 10 and other young people. The aim is to activate passion and get young people excited and more confident about the business world. The programs are run across Tasmania in partnership with the Tasmanian School of Business and Economics at the University of Tasmania and the Department of Maritime and Logistics Management at the Australia Maritime College. More than 600 students have undertaken the challenge, finding a new understanding and inspiration in their approach and attitude towards learning.
Heather and Christopher Chong Community Service Award
Christopher Ballard, 26 of West Hobart has served the scouting movement for almost ten years. Whether as leader of the Mt Stuart Scout Group increasing membership from 20 to 70, mentoring new leaders in the Lenah Valley Scout Group to re-start their Cubs section, or in a variety of capacities supporting major scouting events, Chris undertakes all of his roles with dedication, commitment and kindness that exemplifies all that Scouting is about. Chris contributes to the long term sustainability of Scouting and has provided input into the National Rover Council to improve national policy. He has received a number of Scouting awards and juggles his service to the scout movement with full time study in Pharmacy, and now works as a Pharmacist.
AustralianSuper Career Kick start Award
Lila Landowski, 27 of North Hobart is a PhD student in Neuroscience at the Menzies Research Institute devoting up to 80 hours a week in the laboratory. Lila has attended 13 national and international conferences, presenting her work at eight. Whilst teaching 1st and 2nd year students at the University of Tasmania, Lila is also developing a treatment for nerve damage, for which there currently is no cure. Part of her research received one of only two 2013 National Health and Medical Research Council grants by UTAS, valued at $360,000. Her therapeutic investigation also received a $35,000 grant from the Brain Foundation. The discoveries in her research show compelling evidence that a particular natural molecule can direct nerve regeneration, and may benefit those with neuropathy which may revolutionise treatment.
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Caitlin Rice, 25 of North Hobart believes that every child has the right to a quality education and aims to make all learning experiences meaningful and real for her students. A teacher at Levendale Primary, a small school of 17 children, Caitlin taught children in a mixed class of Kindergarten to Grade 2 and Science and History to the Grade 3 and 4’s. She also took on additional roles such as Teacher in Charge when the Principal was absent. Caitlin became involved in a number of events supporting the Levendale Community. When the final decision was made to close the school, Caitlin worked tirelessly with both Principal and the Community to ensure that the transition to new schools during 2014 was as smooth as possible for the children.
Mat Goggin Foundation Entrepreneurship Award
Ella Watkins, 18 of West Hobart has been writing and illustrating children’s books and also filmmaking for a number of years. She produced her first short film at just 15. Ella published her first book, ‘Henry’s Holiday’ at just 12, and her second book, ‘Henry the Goat’ in 2011. Ella’s books were presented by the State Government to Crown Prince Frederik and Princess Mary. Her book artwork was selected as a part of the Art Rage exhibition. Ella completed year 11 and 12 in one year graduating at 17 with an ATAR score of 99.5. She has also volunteered at an African orphanage and a school in Kenya and completed art courses in Paris, keeping her away from home for five months. Ella is planning a move to Los Angeles to further explore her passions for writing, painting, and filmmaking.
St.LukesHealth Health and Wellbeing Award
Jessica Norton, 22 of Hobart is living with a number of food allergies. She has taken steps to help condition by founding her own company, Eat Safe. Through her Eat Safe company website, she brings awareness to the community of Tasmania about allergies and dietary choices. The information allows individuals to visit and eat with confidence at various local shops, restaurants, cafes and events. Jessica has created symbols that are simple and eye catching that will become visual icons and will be recognised around Hobart and surrounds. Each symbol represents a different food allergy/sensitivity or personal food choice. The community is now benefitting from the fast increasing amount of knowledge, and the available choices that is generated by Eat Safe.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Patrick Kirkby, 27 of South Hobart has delivered hundreds of workshops, presentations and seminars on topics ranging from climate change, to renewable energy, sustainability, social justice and youth leadership. Patrick's volunteer efforts in the climate sector has found him working across the globe, from Bangladesh to Canada. He took 25 local youth on a 12-day Journey along the mighty Kelani River in Sri Lanka. He nurtured, trained and inspired them as future environmental leaders through life-changing environmental educational experiences. The project was hailed to be Sri Lanka's most successful and innovative environmental education project. Patrick has recently commenced a PhD working on climate change solutions across Asia and building on his life-changing experiences.
2013 Winners
Temco Science and Technology Award winner and Southern Cross / Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Dr Clare Smith, 27 of Drinedary received her PhD in Medical Research in 2012. She works with the Menzies Research Institute investigating a novel therapy against Malaria. A major outcome of her research was discovering an antimalarial compound that could make an impact worldwide. The finding is now protected by a patent, and a clinical trial is about to begin. Her work has won numerous Awards and been presented at conferences and seminars across Australia and Europe. Clare was one of only six Australians to attend the 61st Nobel Laureate meeting for medicine/physiology in Germany. She also received a grant from the Australian European Malaria cooperation to work in the Institute of Molecular Medicine in Lisbon, Portugal.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Emma Flukes, 24 of Lindisfarne is a marine scientist with the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies and is completing her PhD. She is investigating the formation of 'barren habitat' caused by long-spined sea urchins and has won numerous awards. This species poses the single largest environmental threat to Tasmanian reefs and the fisheries they support. Emma is an avid underwater photographer and editor for a highly successful local marine magazine. She is involved with rubbish clean ups around waterways and volunteer efforts to conserve marine species both locally and internationally. She is also part of the Young Tasmanian Scientists program.
Mat Goggin Foundation Entrepreneurship Award
Emily Pickett, 17 of Moriarty is involved in music, dance and surf lifesaving. She is the youngest ever playing member of the Devonport Brass Band. She has been playing with the band for the past 10 years. Emily makes numerous public appearances including playing the “Last Post” at the Devonport RSL commemorative services. Emily completed her Bronze Medallion and volunteers patrolling beaches as a Surf Life Saver. She is an outstanding student, musician and a volunteer committee member of many school programs and community organisations and most recently became an “Austswim Instructor”.
First National Real Estate Leadership and Innovation Award
Meg Good, 25 of Hobart is a PhD Candidate at the UTAS Faculty of Law, specialising in environmental and human rights law. Meg has created a number of initiatives including in 2011 two inaugural law school competitions (the UTAS Law Moot Competition and the ISSP Soccer Tournament) which have been run annually by TULS since. In January 2013, she co-ordinated Tasmania’s first Animal Law Conference which was funded by a $10,000 Voiceless Grant Meg won in 2012. The Conference was a great success, featuring 18 speakers and participants from across Australia. Meg is a former PASS Leader/ISSP Tutor, and currently works as a lecturer, tutor and research assistant at the law school.
University of Tasmania, Faculty of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Kate Longey, 28 of Action Park works closely with the refugee community teaching English. She worked as a Youth Pathways Advisor for Colony 47 before coming to Dominic College in 2010 to construct a pilot program for disengaged students called The Magone Program. In 2012, Kate was asked by the Principal to step into the role of Lead Teacher for the program. Kate is also responsible for implementing the “Rock and Water” Program, designed to teach young people safety, integrity, solidarity, self control, self confidence and self respect. Last year, full time student numbers increased by 29% and retention of students within the program has increased by 17%.
Heather and Christopher Chong Community Service Award
Jack Beardsley, 23 of Fern Tree is a Team Manager in the State Emergency Service, Southern Tasmanian Search and Rescue Team and an active member of the Operations Team. Jack took on the Managers role in 2011 and is on call 24/7. He is involved in the coordination, training and management of 30 volunteers. Jack is a qualified first-aid instructor, remote area navigation, land search techniques, four wheeled driving, helicopter operations, wilderness survival and tracking. Last year the Search and Rescue team responded to 11 incidents, with Jack coordinating all of them. He is also actively involved with Camp Quality and the Tasmanian Fire Service.
O Group Trade and Enterprise Achievement Award
Maja Veit, 25 of South Hobart started Silver Hill Fisch in June 2010, producing and selling boutique style seafood sausages. Silver Hill Fisch has won a Silver Medal at the Tasmanian Royal Fine Food Awards. Maja applied her graphic design skills to develop the business logo, signage and stickers and a custom-fitted mobile food van for “easy trade” at small events and markets. Her product is stocked in delis around Hobart and she holds food stalls selling salmon sausages at five Summer Festivals and has a permanent position at the local Farm Gate Market. Maja also has a retail outlet in Queensland. She has completed a Cert IV in Small Business Management and Marketing.
Bokprint Arts Award
Fernando do Campo, 26 of Newstead is a contemporary artist. He recently undertook a three month residency at the Rosamond McCullough Studio at the Cite International des Arts in Paris. In 2012, he was awarded five funded applications including a 2012 Artsbridge Grant by Arts Tasmania. Fernando has a leadership role in supervising the Australian Pavilion at the 2013 Venice Biennale and is part of a mentorship program to oversee and curate “An Awfully Beautiful Place: The Antarctic Art of Stephen Eastaugh” at the Carnegie Gallery, Hobart. He held three solo exhibitions last year and has been selected for a solo exhibition in Launceston.
2012 Winners
Premier’s Young Achiever of the Year
Cait Clarke, 25 of Railton
Heather and Christopher Chong Community Service Award
Damien Almond, 21 of Rokeby is a well respected community volunteer. For over 13 years, he has been an active member of St John Ambulance and was part of a contingent that assisted the Queensland flood victims. Damien has also been a volunteer with Ambulance Tasmania since 2009. He completed a Cert IV in Basic Emergency Care and was promoted to Volunteer Co-ordinator of St Helens Station in 2011, where he gives over 200 hours each month. Damien also volunteers for St Helens Marine Rescue and is a volunteer Announcer and Production Technician for StarFM Community Radio as well as the Wireless Institute Civil Emergency Network.
Mat Goggin Foundation Entrepreneurship Award
Laura Sykes,19 of Sandy Bay is Founder and President of Go Fair Inc, a non profit organisation educating and empowering the community about fair trade and ethical consumerism. Laura works closely with Councils towards fair trade accreditation and organises seminars and campaigns for local businesses and schools. In May 2011, Laura was Event Manager and Coordinator of the Fairtrade Fiesta which attracted over 4,000 people. She is also involved with numerous other community organisations and is State Director of World Vision's youth movement Vision Generation. Laura advocates for fair trade at a local, national and global level.
University of Tasmanian, Faculty of Education Teaching Excellence Award
Holly Barnewall, 26 of Whitemark has embraced the challenges faced by Flinders Island youth. She organises most of the Schools extra curricular activities including camps, movie nights, picnics and BBQ's. With the assistance of the Island Youth Officer, she ensures there are always afterschool and weekend activities for students and is always there for those in need. She introduced a 'transition' subject at school which prepares students for life off the Island including a visit to Launceston or Melbourne. She has rewritten English, SOSE & Related Arts programs to be more relevant and exciting. Holly also organises students in the UTAS Student Voices program.
Print Applied Technology Sports Award
Matt Goss,25 of Berriedale moved through the Tasmanian cycling pathway before heading to Europe to chase his cycling dream. It was an extraordinary year in 2011 for Matt, finishing 2nd in the World Road Cycling Championships, winning the Milan San Remo one day classic and becoming the number 1 ranked cyclist in the world. Matt also competed in the Tour De France, finishing in 2nd place in one stage of the event. He was also awarded the Southern Cross TIS Tasmanian Athlete of the Year Award. Matt is a proud Tasmanian and takes every opportunity to assist with the development of young Tasmanian cyclists.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Emma Flukes,23 of Lindisfarne is a marine scientist with the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies and is completing a PhD. She is investigating the formation of 'barren habitat' caused by the long-spined sea urchin and has won numerous awards for her research. This species poses the single largest environmental threat to Tasmanian reefs and the fisheries they support. Emma is also an avid underwater photographer and editor for a highly successful local marine magazine. She is involved with rubbish clean ups around waterways and volunteer groups to conserve marine species. She also volunteered in the Philippines collecting shark research.
O Group Trade and Enterprise Achievement Award
Danielle Black, 25 of Montrose owns her own business - maXreaction Graphic Design Studio. Launched in 2005, maXreaction is a very successful and highly sought after design studio that offers complete design services from initial concept through to final production. Danielle's clients include some of Tasmania's best known businesses and events. She also has a Cert IV in Small Business Management. Danielle was asked to join Plants Management Australia in 2009 as Senior Graphic Designer. Her remarkable impact on the business is said to be a major contributor to the company being named 2011 Telstra Tasmanian Business of the Year.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Catherine Blizzard, 28 of Hobart graduated with her PhD in Philosophy in 2011.She has commenced a prestigious three year postdoctoral fellowship with the Motor Neuron Disease Research Institute Australia. Catherine was awarded the Menzies Research Institute Tasmanian Student of the Year and a travel fellowship from the International Brain Research Organisation to present her work at the 8th World Congress on Brain Research in Italy. She has won many awards, published research papers in several high ranking international journals and was invited to become the sole author of the International MND Association Quarterly Research Report.
First National Real Estate Leadership and Innovation Award
Cait Clarke, 25 of Railton is Chairperson of the Kentish Youth Council with input into Council's strategic direction. She also contributes through the Guiding Coalition and the Social Inclusion Action Group. Cait re-established the Sheffield Girl Guides and was instrumental in the development of the Dreamcasters program nurturing young women into future leaders. She is a driver mentor with the Road Education Volunteers Program. Cait is trained in suicide intervention and youth leadership. She is a single mum and developed the 'Walkers and Talkers' program for young mothers and became the youngest ever Kentish Councillor.
2011 Winners
Premier’s Young Achiever of the Year
Stanislav Shabala, 27 of Lindisfarne
Tasmania Together Community Service Award
Sarah Perry, 23 of Risdon Vale is a volunteer with the Warrane Mornington Neighbourhood Centre. She was integral in introducing a youth program to the Centre with twenty young people attending each week. The Centre then became involved with the Youth, Community, Ownership, Prevention and Education Project, in conjunction with other local Centres. Sarah worked with the Project Officer to develop a trial holiday program for young people which proved a great success. She also had a governing role in the award winning TOOL Project. Sarah has been President of the Centre since 2008, the youngest President of a Neighbourhood Centre in Tasmania.
Academy of the Arts: UTAS School of Visual and Performing Arts & Tasmanian Polytechnic Arts Award
Michael Lampard, 25 of Battery Point graduated with a Masters of Music Degree and has studied in Düsseldorf and New York City. He has worked with many of Australia's leading organisations and several international orchestras and opera companies in Europe and Asia. Michael has won many awards, recorded a CD and launched HIP-POCKET OPERA with a Gala concert in Hobart. The concert featured performances by some of Hobart's most renowned classical singers including Ben Davidson and Sharon Prero and saw Michael perform with emerging Hobart soprano Melinda Briton.
Spirit of Tasmania Award
Simon French, 27 of Cremorne Simon is a former Junior Australian National Champion in Downhill Mountain Biking. He established 'Dirt Art', a company that constructs mountain bike facilities. He volunteers when not working as a nurse, advocating for ongoing development of mountain bike parks in Glenorchy and Clarence and volunteers and coordinates volunteer days to build tracks and trails. He is President of Hobart Wheelers Dirt Devils Cycling Club and also the Clarence Mountain Bike Park Association. Simon is Vice President of Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park Association and a Downhill Rider Representative for Mountain Bike Australia.
Print Applied Technology Sports Award
Eddie Ockenden, 24 of Moonah has been a permanent member of the Kookaburras since 2007. He won the 2007 and 2008 Champions Trophy Most Promising Player Award, 2008 World Young Player of the Year and was chosen in the 2008 and 2009 World All Stars Teams. He was part of the bronze medal team at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. 2010 saw Eddie win 3 gold medals in each of the prestigious Champions Trophy, World Cup and Commonwealth Games. While he is now based at the AIS for Hockey in Perth and also plays in the Dutch National League, Eddie still runs coaching clinics and visits schools when he comes home.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Gregory Irons, 28 of Brighton became Director of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary at 25, and has since made it his mission to educate and empower the local, national and global community to help save the Tasmanian Wildlife. His FOC emergency wildlife rescue program has attracted more than 200 volunteers. Greg had trained volunteers in rescue, transport and care. He is focused on grass roots education and community empowerment. He networks with other organisations such as the RSCPA and Parks and Wildlife. When Greg isn't rescuing or educating, he is visiting the children's ward of the Royal Hobart Hospital with baby wombats and blue tongue lizards.
O Group Trade and Enterprise Achievement Award
Lisa Tedeschi, 27 of Launceston became unwell with a life threatening auto immune disease know as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus whilst studying. Once in remission, she completed certificate studies and established "Ahead in Time Hairdressing Salon" at age 20. After growing the business to 11 staff, she sold the Salon to an employee and started Sebachi Ladies and Men's Fashion clothing store which now has a team of 5. Lisa later developed Mint Bath and Body Beauty before expanding the retail store to include a beauty salon. Lisa has won many business awards and was President of Hair and Beauty Tasmania in 2009, and is currently Vice President of City Prom.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Stanislav Shabala, 27 of Lindisfarneis an ARC Super Science Fellow in the Astrophysics and Environmental Geodesy groups at the University of Tasmania. He was awarded the Bok Prize for the top Astrophysics Honours thesis in Australia in 2003. Stas completed a PhD at the University of Cambridge and held a research fellowship at Oxford. His research is on the physics of black holes and galaxies. He has published proficiently in journals and is an invited speaker at international conferences. His work on black holes has practical applications in climate science and geophysics, helping to answer vital questions about the deformation of our continent and sea level rise.
Camerons Leadership and Innovation Award
Abyilene McGuire, 28 of Blackmans Bay is the Senior Environmental Health Officer at Kingborough Council. She was a 2010 national ambassador for the Year of Women in Local Government and served on the State Board of Environmental Health Australia for eight years. Abyilene has worked in community leadership roles for many years through Girl Guides Australia at local, state, national and international levels. She participated in numerous leadership forums and conferences including the world-first UN Environment Program 'Global Town Hall' meeting on climate change and attended the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.
Fonterra Agricultural Award
Joe Bennett, 28 of Great Bay established Get Shucked in 2004. The business has become a highly efficient oyster production system, supplying 140,000 dozen high quality oysters each year to the Australian market. Joe employs 3 fulltime staff plus additional shop staff in peak seasons. Get Shucked also splits oysters at their onsite farm shop for local restaurants and for sales direct to the public. The Get Shucked Oyster Shop on Bruny Island had a record year in 2010. A new shop and processing facility are in the planning stage. Joe enjoyed a very successful joint stall with 2010 Premier's Young Achiever of the Year Will Bignell, at the Taste Festival.
2010 Winners
Premier’s Young Achiever of the Year
Will Bignell, 27 of Sandy Bay
Tasmania Together Community Service Award
Eva Mackinley, 20 of West Hobarthas not had an easy or comfortable life. She works four jobs to provide for herself, and solely care for her 15 year old brother. Eva has also saved relentlessly to enrol in a Bachelor of Arts with a focus on International Relations. In spite of her hardships, she gives selflessly of her time to improve the lives of others and has influenced the lives of many through the Festival of Dreams program, Tasmanian Youth Forum, World Vision, TasKids Carers, Invisible Children and St Vincent de Paul. In 2009 she was appointed to the Australian Youth Forum Steering Committee. Eva is also involved with Celebrate Tasmania and has a passionate interest in the arts through theatre company Plot.
MyState Financial Arts Award
Josie Hurst, 28 of West Hobarthas a multimedia degree Bachelor of Fine Arts/Bachelor of Information Systems. As the Devonport Regional Gallery Exhibitions and Public Programs Officer, she developed and managed over 50 programs ranging from life drawing classes, contemporary jewellery workshops, graffiti workshops, puppetry, African music, dancing, talks and forums. In 2009 Josie commenced a Masters of Cultural Heritage. She runs education programs at Moonah Arts Centre and is co-curator of youth program Soft Centre, part of Glenorchy Council's Works Festival. She has key involvement and board membership of numerous significant arts organisations in Tasmania.
Spirit of Tasmania Award
Danni Murfet, 21 of Launceston is driven to make a difference in the lives of others and to work with the disabled, disadvantaged and those in need. She is working toward her Community Services Diploma and her Disability Services Certificate IV. Danni is currently working for the Northern Residential Support Group as a Disability Residential Support Assistant. With two friends, she started a youth support group "allsorts" for young gay people in Launceston. There are now also groups running in the South and North West. She is also involved with the Youth Network of Tasmania, Tasmanian Youth Forum and volunteers with St John Ambulance and Speak Out Tasmania.
Print Applied Technology Sports Award
Eddie Ockenden, 22 of Moonah North was the 2008 FIH World Junior Hockey Player of the Year. He is also a member of the FIH 2008 World Team. He was a member of the National Team that qualified for the 2010 World Cup by beating New Zealand in Invercargill in August 2008 and won a Bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He has been playing in the Dutch National League and was a member of the Australian team in the 2009 Men’s Champions Trophy Tournament. Eddie was part of the National Team that won the 2010 World Cup recently and also the Hamburg Cup in 2009.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Kirsty Albion, 22 of Lauderdale is a ranger at Mt Field and Maria Island National Parks, Bonorong Wildlife Park and with The Spirit of Tasmania where she educates people in how to protect our natural heritage. She also supports the development of young environmental leaders, believing them to be the solution to the climate crisis. Kirsty lead a delegation of 15 young Australians and 11 Pacific Island youth to the international climate negotiations in Copenhagen. She is building youth climate networks throughout Australia in her role as National Volunteer Co-ordinator for the Australian Youth Climate Coalition, Australia's largest youth organisation. Kirsty is a Founding Member of Project Survival Pacific.
O Group Trade and Enterprise Achievement Award
Shanna Sweeney, 28 of Geilston Bay has a Bachelor of Business Administration at UTAS. She worked in a number of Property Manager role’s with Quest Serviced Apartments and is into property investing with numerous personal investment properties. More recently Shanna opened Tasmania’s first cupcake store. "Cutie Cups" is located in Hobart’s Elizabeth St Mall. All ideas, recipes and concepts are wholly and solely Shanna’s. She aims to franchise the business and is in discussion with numerous interstate and overseas interests. Shanna sponsors the RSPCA Cupcake Day, Breast Cancer Pink Ribbon afternoon teas, a youth battle of the bands and the "baby-teresa" initiative.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Jessica Andrewartha, 26 of Lenah Valley is a Civil Engineer and the API Research Fellow in the Centre for Renewable Energy and Power Systems at the University of Tasmania. She submitted her PhD thesis in August 2009 and is undertaking research in the areas of renewable energy and experimental fluid dynamics. Jessica is investigating methods to make the delivery of water from dams to hydropower stations more efficient. She has presented her research at international conferences and has had numerous papers published. She lectures at the School of Engineering and volunteers her time to speak at schools. Jessica is Chair of Young Engineers Australia representing over 40,000 engineers nationally.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Christopher Cusick, 29 of Nugent is an apprentice at Wursthaus. He is President of the Nugent Community & Sports Association and was until recently Secretary of South East Field and Game. Christopher is also on the steering committee for Bendigo Bank in the hope of opening up a community branch in Sorell. He organises “Clean up Australia” day, and events for the Bream Creek Show. The Bream Creek vs Nugent Football Match received a certificate of recognition for Community Event of the Year at the Australia Day awards. A ride on lawn mower race between Nugent & Bream Creek is the main event.
Fonterra Agricultural Award
Will Bignell, 27 of Sandy Bay is nearing the completion of his doctorate with UTAS and CSIRO. He is investigating enhancing long chain omega-3 content in Australian lamb and improving sheep production. Will also co-manages the family farm, "Thorpe", at Bothwell, as the 7th generation on the farm. He has a strong passion for sustainable agriculture and produces award winning, high quality produce for his customers. Will has been an active member in the community, donating time on the executives of University clubs and societies, agricultural advisory boards and helping to inspire students to undertake tertiary education.
2009 Winners
Premier’s Young Achiever of the Year
Scott Brennan, 25 of Lindisfarne
Rio Tinto Alcan Community Service Award
Jessica Jacobson, 20 of Ulverstone spent twelve months overseas as an ambassador for Tasmania after finishing school. She returned with a passion to eradicate poverty. She is involved in Make Poverty History events and workshops and is also involved in Coat Day which has become an international event. Over 50,000 coats have been donated for those in need. Jessica was the longest serving President of youth group Enormity receiving Life Membership. She mentors at schools and speaks to community groups to raise awareness and funds for international human rights issues. Jessica spent time volunteering at an orphanage in India last year. She is also working hard to turn around poverty in Braddon. She was awarded the Central Coast Young Citizen Award for her community service.
MyState Financial Arts Award
Finegan Kruckemeyer, 27 of West Hobarthas had 27 plays commissioned and performed by professional theatre companies in Australia and America. Additionally Finegan has 17 new works set for professional seasons over the next 3 years in Australia, England, China, Spain, Singapore, Scotland and America. He has received key theatre awards and has taught drama and playwriting around Australia for the past 10 years. Finegan created and ran an integrated company in Hobart to include the disabled, has written works and performed in numerous national and international festivals. He is the Editor of national arts magazine Lowdown and sits on various arts boards and panels.
Spirit of Tasmania Award
Josh sutton, 23 of Devonport started his apprenticeship as a chef at Essence Food and Wine in October 2002. After a change of business ownership in 2005 he took on the role as Head Chef, managing the complete kitchen operations. He is also the trainer of 3 apprentice chefs and 2 trainee chefs. Josh’s highlights include 1st place in the state-wide Whirlpool cooking competition. He was selected as Tasmania’s representative Chef in the "Produce of Heaven Campaign" which incorporated a fine dining dinner and tradeshow stand in Taipei, Taiwan. Josh volunteers with numerous organisations including the "Grans Van" charity organisation by preparing food and services to the homeless of Devonport and surrounds.
Print Applied Technology Sports Award
Scott Brennan, 25 of Lindisfarne was devastated with his 7th place at the 2004 Olympics and was determined to do better. He finished 1st in the national double and single scull in 2006. He suffered injury in 2007 but came back to compete in the Australian men’s double scull for the World Championships in Munich setting an Australian record in the regatta and placing 8th. In 2008 he came 1st in the National senior double scull and quad scull and 3rd in the Lucerne and Munich World Cups. Scott went through the Beijing Olympic regatta undefeated in the men’s double scull beating world and Olympic champions on the way to winning the gold medal. He has also completed his medical degree.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Jan Zika, 26 of West Hobart is a Climate Scientist at CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric in Hobart and is currently completing his PhD. He was chosen as one of ten students from around the world to receive training in climate dynamics in the US. Jan has developed an innovative method for understanding the movement of heat and CO2 in the Ocean and improves models of the climate and global warming. His new “inverse method” is less sensitive to error than previous methods. His studies of the Southern Ocean and Atlantic are being published in international scientific journals with plans for collaborators to implement his techniques to the Global Ocean. He gives considerable time promoting science at schools and community events. Jan is also a volunteer with Amnesty International.
O Group Trade and Career Achievement Award
Brad Smith, 21 of Legana trades most nights on the US stock market and spends every day growing his businesses. Brad owns and operates 2 mini motocross superstores, runs an importing business and also a wholesale business. He designs his own brand of mini bike and has his own range of clothing, parts and accessories all under the brand name “Braaap”. He also owns several on-line businesses and is working towards franchising his specialised retail stores. He spends a great deal of time in China where his bikes are manufactured and attends shows and motocross events. Brad has been responsible for building 4 mini motocross tracks in Tasmania and has a vision to have mini tracks built near all local townships to keep young people off the streets.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Peter While, 27 of Hobartis a post-doctoral researcher in the field of magnetic resonance imaging. He was awarded a University Medal in 2003 and completed his PhD in mathematical physics in less than three years, at age 26. He has a formidable publication history in MRI coil design through numerous international publications and is a highly commended communicator, presenting his work as far afield as Berlin and Honolulu. His most recent work represents an entirely new design methodology for MRI scanners and has been described by experts in the field as a landmark step in MRI research. These designs promise to improve the performance of scanners and patient comfort during scanning and are to undergo testing in Queensland for commercial application.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Melissa Krushka, 26 of Scottsdale has been volunteering for the Australian Breastfeeding Association in Northern Tasmania for over 8 years. She has given over 2,000 voluntary hours to supporting and educating breastfeeding mothers and their families. Melissa provides regular get-togethers for social and educational purposes for mothers in the Dorset area. She is the Locality Mother, Meeting Hostess, Library Officer, Community Educator and is a qualified Trainee Breastfeeding Counsellor. She also provides homed cooked meals for those who need extra help. Melissa annually organises a Parenting Facilities Tent at the Scottsdale Show and organised an ABA accredited Baby Care Room in Scottsdale. She is also President of the Scottsdale P & F Association.
2008 Winners
Premier’s Young Achiever of the Year
Aaron Mackril, 27 of Lenah Valley
Rio Tinto Alcan Community Service Award
Aaron Mackril, 27 of Lenah Valley was born with Cystic Fibrosis and was not expected to live into his teens. Falling very ill as a teenager, he was given a second chance at life when he received a double lung transplant. Since then, his health has improved and he now works as a Registered Nurse and also dedicates more than 20 hours each week to raising awareness of various causes including Cystic Fibrosis, diabetes and organ donation. Aaron has recently become President of Cystic Fibrosis, is an executive member of Transplant Australia and an integral member of Diabetes Australia working with teen diabetics.
MyState Financial Arts Award
Annika Koops, 24 of Beaumaris was awarded an Artist in Residence position at “Foundation B.a.d” in Rotterdam in early 2007 where she is working and researching. Annika was also awarded the prestigious Keith and Elizabeth Murdock Travelling Fellowship and has travelled extensively around Europe attending cultural events and visiting institutions where she will potentially finish her MFA. She has been a part of several shows and events in 2007 and held a solo exhibition of her paintings and photographic works at BUS Gallery. Recently she completed a show at “Art Rotterdam International Art Fair” and has been awarded a grant by Arts Tasmania for the production of a solo show scheduled for early 2009.
Spirit of Tasmania Award
Katy Pakinga, 27 of Burnie believes in making opportunities happen, not waiting for them to happen. In 2003 Katy created the contemporary Burnie Youth Choir and just 4 years later, the Choir won the best show/pop choir at the Performing Arts Challenge in Sydney. Katy has also opened her own successful performing arts studio “Encore”. She is an inspirational role model with significant success participating in, and coordinating numerous musical and other events. She has raised the profile of Burnie and Tasmania through many media stories across the country about her successes. Katy was rewarded with the Burnie Young Citizen Award in 2005 for her community contribution .
Print Applied Technology Sports Award
Scott Brennan, 25 of Lindisfarne achieved exceptional results as a junior rower, and in his first senior event won Gold in the quad scull in Lucerne at the World Cup. Scott was devastated with his seventh place at the 2004 Olympics and was determined to improve. He finished 1st in the interstate single scull in 2005 and 2006 and 1st in national double and single scull in 2006. After suffering a significant injury in 2007, he came back to compete in the Australian men’s double scull for the World Championships in Munich setting an Australian record in the regatta and placing 6th in the semi finals. Scott is now focused on the 2008 Olympics and completing his medical degree.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Abyilene Dobson, 25 of Blackmans Bay is an environmental Health Officer with the Kingborough Council and is a Branch Councillor with the Australian Institute of Environmental Health. Her role is to ensure a healthy and safe environment through the implementation of public and environmental health programs. Abyilene conducts numerous education programs and coordinates projects including the Bruny Island Water Supply for which she received an Industry Award for her work. She has also recently undertaken volunteer work in Peru, South America to help improve education and hygiene standards about safety of the water and wastewater management to minimise contamination in the remote Angian mountain villages.
TAFE Tasmania Trade and Career Achievement Award
Leah Brown, 23 of Lindisfarne is a Barrister and Solicitor. She is the first Indigenous female lawyer in Tasmania and was the Aboriginal student representative at UTAS and also represented her community as President of the Aboriginal Centre. She attended the 1999 Youth Reconciliation Convention and the World Indigenous Peoples Convention on Education in Canada in 2002. She is the cofounder of Aboriginal Dance Groups and was awarded the 2003 Aborigine of the Year, later receiving the Centenary Medal of Australia. Leah is now actively involved in assisting with the creation of new government legislation to protect Aboriginal Heritage and assists traditional owners in the area of native title.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
James Hamilton, 25 of West Launceston graduated with first class honours with a Bachelor in Engineering, and became the 2005 engineering graduate in profile. In 2007 he was named the Engineers Australia Young Mechanical Engineer of the Year. James has devoted the past two years to the design, commissioning and development of a commercial “vibrocompacted drained aluminium cell” for Rio Tinto Alcan, which reduces the environmental footprint with substantially lower power requirements. James recently initiated the “Engineering Advisory on Industrial Development” organisation and plans to further develop his “Total Environment and Conservation House” electronic education tool which is all about education for the home environment.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Esther Rubenach, 24 of Gray dedicates over 50 hours in voluntary service each week. She is a volunteer ambulance officer and is also trained in road crash rescue in the State Emergency Service. During the devastating bush fires, Esther was called to an accident where a young fire fighter was killed. She volunteered to stay with the body to assist with execration even though burning trees were falling all around. Esther is also a driver for the Community Transport Service and is actively involved as a member and past secretary of the Tasmanian Lymphoedema Centre at St Marys. She is enrolled in Nursing in 2008, but travels to Launceston rather than relocating, so that she can continue her community activities.
2007 Winners
Premier’s Young Achiever of the Year
Phillip Pullinger, 26 of Hobart
Rio Tinto Alminium Community Service Award
Jessica Brown, 23 of Howrah is passionately committed and dedicated to community service work which has inspired many young people to make volunteering an important part of their lives to. Overcoming significant personal challenge, she has achieved a great deal including an Advanced Diploma and University Degrees. Jessica is proud of her Aboriginality and is a Mentor for the Aboriginal Personal Pathways Program and she is the Primary Carer for her grandmother as well as a Targa Tasmania volunteer. Jessica for many years has contributed significant voluntary hours to the Tasmania Fire Service, and is also a Project Team member and a volunteer Training Instructor for the Fire Service.
islandstate Arts Award
Pete Cornelius, 23 of St Marysreleased his first CD “stepping out in blue” at just 13. In 1999 Pete Cornelius and the DeVilles were formed and on their second tour, along with many Festivals they performed at the Australian Blues Festival in Goulburn and the Frankston International Guitar Festival in Victoria. Pete was awarded the Best Blues/Jazz Guitarist Award at both Festivals. The band has since toured Australia on numerous occasions. The band has produced many CD’s and has successfully toured the US twice and also the UK. Pete signed an endorsement deal with Fender, produced a CD with Chicago Blues star Steve Avery and is now also coordinator of the Falmouth Festival.
Spirit of Tasmania Award
Robyn McKinnon, 23 of Longford Age is a survivor of sexual abuse. Moving to Tasmania at 18, she now uses her personal life experience to assist hurting and broken young people. Robyn is dedicated to raising awareness of the prevalence and effects of Child Sexual Abuse and developing programs to support young people in their transition to adulthood. She is also coordinator of the Rural Co-Pilots program in the Northern Midlands aimed to help and encourage young people to reach their full potential and has trained over 40 people to become mentors of programs that she organises for young people. Robyn is also a member of the Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee and other community organisations.
Printing Authority of Tasmania Sports Award
Johanna Allston, 21 of Fern Tree became the Senior and Junior World Champion in Orienteering at only 20. She is the first non European to win an orienteering medal and the first orienteer ever to win a Gold Medal at both Junior and Senior levels. Hanny is also the first junior to win at senior level in the 40 year history of senior World Championships. She is an amazing athlete with an amazing training regime and holds a TIS scholarship. Locally she runs training camps for Tasmanian orienteers and provides coaching and support in running club events. At school Hanny achieved a National TER score of 98.75 and is now studying medicine in and around her sport.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Phillip Pullinger, 26 of Hobart is a medical doctor with a passion for environmental protection and a commitment to public health issues. He has made a significant contribution to a number of key environmental groups including the Cam River Action Group, The Wilderness Society, Doctors For Forests and Environment Tasmania. Phillip was President of the Tarkine National Coalition and was a founding member and is the current convenor of Environment Tasmania a peak environment group focused on forest, marine and coastal conservation with 22 environment group members representing over 5500 Tasmanians.
TAFE Tasmania Career Achievement Award
Adrian Bold, 25 of Hobart established an innovative media business at only 19 years of age while still studying full time at University. 5 years on, his company has grown into a dynamic, sustainable and profitable business, achieving annual sales growth of 200%. Clients range from publicly listed development firms to Government Agencies. Adrian’s business produces 3D Digital Content that leads the way internationally in 3D technology, visually communicating new projects before they exist. Adrian has become a sought after speaker, was the 2004 Australasian Student Entrepreneur of the Year and was selected as one of 12 leading global young entrepreneurs.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Luke Bereznicki, 26 of Kingston graduated from the School of Pharmacy with first class honours and was an inaugural recipient of a National Institute of Clinical Studies PhD Scholarship. His research has been focused on strategies to improve the quality of anticoagulants particularly with the drug Warfarin in the hospital and community settings. Luke has published numerous international papers and has won many awards and was the 2006 National Prescribing Service Quality Use of Medicine Student of the Year for his pioneering achievements in the field. Luke is also a lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at the Tasmanian School of Pharmacy.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Karena Brown, 23 of Burnie left school at a young age, working hard to save money towards her vision and dream of owning her own child care business. At only 19 she started “Maddington Child Services”. Working long hours from home providing children’s parties and “in home” carer services, the business expanded rapidly. Karena rented a derelict property and after totally renovating it, achieved her dream of being able to service her community through her own child care centre. In the past 12 months the business has flourished and Karena has opened another 3 fully licensed centres with plans for another 2. KLB Enterprises is now one of the largest child care facilities in Tasmania.
2006 Winners
Premiers Young Achiever of the Year
Jyoti Chuckowree, 26 of South Hobart
Comalco Community Service Award
April Chivers, 18 of Lenah Valley has overcome significant personal adversity, always putting others first. April was extremely active at Claremont College and is an active member of the Glenorchy Youth Task Force participating in many projects such as the 2005 long lunch, big breakfast bash and “Butt Ugly” a very successful anti smoking education program. April prepares and presents workshops, conferences and consults with committees on youth issues and is a member of the Tasmanian Youth Consultative Committee. She volunteers for the Brain Injury Association of Tasmania, MS Society and World Vision. Suffering from depression, April is now working on a project to help other young people with depression.
islandstate Arts Award
William Lane, 23 of Sandy Bay is a violinist of local, national and international acclaim. In 2004 William toured Europe with the Australian Youth Orchestra and upon winning the Claudio Alcorso Scholarship fulfilled residencies in Europe and the US. William has performed solo in Italy, Austria, Iceland, the USA and Mexico, with highlights including performances at the International Viola Congress in Iceland and an all Mozart performance at the Ponchielli Theatre in Italy. Recently William won 2 prizes at an international performance competition in Rome.
Spirit of Tasmania Award
Robert Gane, 22 of Devonporthas overcome many personal obstacles to achieve. His battles which begun when he was an infant included multiple cancer tumours requiring weekly trips to Melbourne for intensive treatment, tuberculosis and double pneumonia. Despite these setbacks and in remission he has gone on to become a double scholarship winner at University, vice president at his College and a graduate with honours in Engineering being awarded a full blue for representing Tasmania in Rugby Union. Robert plays many sports, is active in Scouts and having been a Camp Quality Camper for many years is now giving back as a Camp Quality Companion encouraging and inspiring young people with cancer.
Printing Authority of Tasmania Sports Award
Mark Jamieson, 21 of Acacia Hills is an AIS Track Endurance Scholarship holder who has won many national and international titles. In 2005 Mark won the Individual Pursuit and the teams’ pursuit at the National Track Championships and was named the Australian Track Champs Rider of the Year. Mark came third at the Los Angeles World Track Championships in the Teams Pursuit, second in the Individual Pursuit at the Madrid Track World Cup and won in the Teams Pursuit at the Moscow Track World Cup.
Matthew Goss, 19 of Prospect is an AIS Junior Track/Road Cycling Scholarship holder based in Italy. Matthew has won many national and international titles and was the 2004 Junior World Champion. In 2005 in seniors he won the teams’ pursuit and came second in the points’ race at the National Track Championships. Matthew came third at the Los Angeles World Track Championships in the Teams Pursuit, first in the Teams Pursuit at the Moscow Track World Cup and first in a stage of the Tour of Japan and second in the Jayco Herald Sun Tour.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Lucy Harlow, 26 of Lenah Valley is currently undertaking her PhD within the School of Plant Sciences at the University of Tasmania. Lucy has volunteered and assisted with numerous Science programs and is researching Toxic algal blooms which are a worldwide threat to aquaculture, fisheries, tourism and public health. Lucy has successfully developed methods for genetic identification of toxic algae using molecular tools. She has designed and developed a gene probe to detect toxic micro-algae in environmental samples, including ship ballast water which will be essential to prevent the introduction of algae to ports. Lucy’s research has been published in several prestigious journals.
TAFE Tasmania Career Achievement Award
Chris Johnson, 26 of Hobart is the Station Manager of vibrant Hobart community youth radio station, Edge Radio 99.3FM. Through great vision and energy Chris has taken Edge from a fledgling station in 2002 to become an intrinsic part of Hobart’s youth scene. Chris is well positioned to manage the station with qualifications in audio engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and human geography together with years of technical experience and a solid grounding in local music. Chris has been heavily involved and totally dedicated in all areas of the station from its very beginnings, including sales, promotions, music, technical and management.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Jyoti Chuckowree, 26 of South Hobartcompleted her Bachelor of Science degree with first class honours as a member of the NeuroRepair Group at the University of Tasmania, recently submitting her PhD. Jyoti’s research focuses on how the adult brain responds to trauma following injury and that precursor cells contribute to brain healing. These discoveries have highlighted aspects of the brain’s response to injury that may be targeted to promote recovery from brain trauma. Jyoti has presented her work at numerous conferences and her research has been published in several prestigious international journals. Jyoti has recently been awarded a CJ Martin Fellowship, which will see her travel to Switzerland to research for 2 years.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Damian Atkins, 26 of Delorainegrew up on a dairy, sheep and beef farm. After his studies, an apprenticeship on his parents operation and a position with a Victorian artificial breeding firm, Damian purchased North West Breeding Services. Damian regularly travels overseas to inspect donor animals, learn new genetic advancements and source genetic material from 40 countries for importation whilst bringing back international best practice. The business has fast become the biggest independent genetics provider in Tasmania and one of the largest in Australia with two of the worlds’ largest genetics suppliers currently negotiating to buy Damian’s business.
2005 Winners
Southern Cross Young Achiever of the Year
Amy Cutler, 25 of West Launceston
Comalco Community Service Award
Thuy Shaw, 24 of West Hobart arrived in Australia as a “boat person” in the 1980’s and knows too well the hardships and trauma that face refugees. The Seven Seas, Seven Sands, 7-day Refugee Week festival is testament to her passion for helping refugees. She advocates for refugees and has educated professionals and community members alike through cross cultural awareness training. Thuy has been a keynote speaker at many conferences talking about barriers and hardships. She also featured in the documentaries “Finding the Tasmanian voice” and “Bonza girls” as well as being amongst the Mercury’s Top ten Tasmanians to watch in 2005.
Hobart Ports Corporation Arts Award
Amy Cutler, 25 of West Launceston grew up studying violin, piano and voice. In 1997 she won a scholarship to the Queensland Conservatorium completing her Bachelor of Music in Voice with Professor Janet Delpratt. Amy has performed professionally in Opera, Cabaret and with the Orchestra and Ballet, releasing her first classical CD in 2003. As well as singing, Amy has developed a career writing music, winning the Noise/Triple J remix competition as well as co-writing the theme song for the international children's television show "The Sleepover Club." Amy won 2 National Musicoz awards for original music in 2004 and is currently working on an original orchestral recording.
Printing Authority of Tasmania Sports Award
Matthew Wells, 26 of Glenorchy is Co-Captain of the Australian Mens Hockey Team, first representing Australia in 1995. Matthew was a member of the gold medal winning Junior World Cup team in 1997 before being selected in the national senior squad in 1998. He has represented Australia in many major tournaments, winning gold in the 2004 Olympic Games; bronze in the 2000 Olympic Games; silver in the 2002 World Cup and gold in the 2002 Commonwealth Games. Matthew also plays in the National Hockey League for the Tassie Tigers and some of his awards include the 2001 and 2003 League’s Best and Fairest and the 2003 Australian International Player of the Year.
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Rachel Anderson, 26 of Glenlusk completed her Science Degree at the University of Tasmania in 2001 and graduated with Honours, majoring in Environmental Science. Rachel has continued her research into saving the habitat and the endangered Ptunarra Brown Butterfly whilst undertaking her PhD. Rachel is involved with many community groups working on various environmental projects. She also works with children in schools helping them undertake environmental research and establish Butterfly Gardens. Rachel is also an Environmental Consultant for Guides Tasmania, encouraging all Units to include environmental activities in their program.
The Apprenticeships Specialist Career Achievement Award
Anthony Scotney, 23 of Sandy Bay graduated from the University of Tasmania in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Computer Science and Information Systems. He then established JadeLiquid Software Pty Ltd to develop software tools that would enhance the Java programming language. In 2003 Anthony obtained investment from In-tellinc Pty Ltd to commercialise these innovations. Anthony’s first product WebRenderer is widely accepted within the international Java community and has achieved sales into 13 countries spanning North America, Europe and Asia. In two years Anthony has established JadeLiquid as one of Tasmania’s most successful emerging technology companies.
TEMCO Science & Technology Award
Fiona Poke, 25 of South Hobart completed a Bachelor of Science degree with first class honours at the University of Tasmania in 2001 and received several awards including a University Medal. Fiona is completing a PhD focusing on finding and developing ways of improving the wood quality of Eucalyptus globules, the main hardwood plantation species grown in temperate Australia and around the world. This work will help optimize productivity from plantations and reduce environmental impacts through the improvement of wood quality. Fiona has had two papers published in scientific journals and was invited to speak at an International Eucalyptus conference in Portugal.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Matthew Hill, 21 of Norfolk is committed to the importance of valuing young people with his involvement in government youth advisory groups and peak government and non-government youth organisations. He has held management and leadership roles within Derwent Valley Online Access Centres, Derwent Valley Community House, Derwent Valley Economic Renewal Group, New Norfolk Historic Information Centre, New Norfolk Township Revitalisation Committee and the New Norfolk Scout Troop. Matthew has helped organise the New Norfolk Christmas Parade and Derwent Valley Council Australia Day Celebrations and is currently involved in the New Norfolk Lions Club and Bushy Park Show Society.
2004 Winners
Premier's Young Achiever of the Year
Dr Roger Chung, 26 achieved first class honours in Biochemistry and in 2003 was awarded his PhD. Roger is currently a Research Fellow within the NeuroRepair Group at the School of Medicine, University of Tasmania. His research focuses on understanding how the brain responds to injury or disease. Roger has discovered the ability of a brain protein named metallothionein to directly promote brain recovery following brain injury. This discovery may have clinical applications leading to the development of a treatment for brain trauma patients. Roger has won many awards, published numerous papers, including the prestigious Journal of Neuroscience, and has presented his work at many conferences and forums internationally
Hydro Tasmania Environment Award
Natalia Rodriguez, 23 is currently studying for a Bachelor of Natural Environment and Wilderness at the University of Tasmania. Natalia volunteers a significant number of hours as the Community Liaison Officer for the Lilydale Landcare Group. She is also very active in Green Corps, Conservation Volunteers, Clean Up Australia, National Tree Planting, the Tamar Region Natural Resource Management Strategy and other Weed Strategy Initiatives.
Comalco Community Service Award
Emma Butler, 24 was born with cerebral palsy. All of her limbs are affected and she requires daily support. Emma is a driving force for Arts Roar Accessible Arts Project, particularly in her role as secretary, averaging 20 voluntary hours each week. Emma also does a great deal for Independent Services. These services cater for the creative and recreational needs of people with disabilities. Emma also has a passion for directing videos that highlight social issues faced by people with disabilities. Emma is a well-known spokesperson for people with a disability, and regularly speaks at forums, conferences and training sessions.
Hobart Ports Corporation Arts Award
Ben van Tienen, 20 is an extremely talented and versatile artist. His first award, the “Brenda Hean Memorial Award” came in 1997 when he was only 14. The accolades have just kept coming for his singing and piano performances and recitals. Ben has won the Lady Cross Trophy at the Hobart Eisteddfod for the past three years. He conducted his first musical at 16 and has been the Musical Director for the Tasmanian Song Company for the past three years, as well as directing for Annie, La Cage aux Folles, Jesus Christ Superstar and Chicago to name a few. Ben is now furthering his studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Temco Science & Technology Award
Dr Roger Chung, 26 achieved first class honours in Biochemistry and in 2003 was awarded his PhD. Roger is currently a Research Fellow within the NeuroRepair Group at the School of Medicine, University of Tasmania. His research focuses on understanding how the brain responds to injury or disease. Roger has discovered the ability of a brain protein named metallothionein to directly promote brain recovery following brain injury. This discovery may have clinical applications leading to the development of a treatment for brain trauma patients. Roger has won many awards, published numerous papers, including the prestigious Journal of Neuroscience, and has presented his work at many conferences and forums internationally.
Printing Authority of Tasmania Sports Award
Kerry Hore, 22 has been an outstanding and consistent achiever for many years winning numerous awards including the 2003 Tasmanian Institute of Sport Female and Overall Athlete of the Year. Kerry is nearing completion of her Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Tasmania, currently studying by correspondence so that she can focus on the 2004 Athens Olympics. Kerry has won state and national titles including Gold in the Womens Double and Quad sculls. In July 2003 Kerry won Gold at the World Cup in Luzern followed by Gold in the Quad sculls at the World Rowing Championships in Milan.
Forestry Tasmania Regional Initiative Award
Matthew Young, 26 is a young farmer making a significant contribution on the family vegetable, crop, cattle and sheep farm. Matthew is heavily involved in Rural Youth and has held committee positions for the Devonport Club since joining in 1994. He has also been involved in Agfest since 1995. Matthew has won many awards including Tasmanian Rural Youth Young Farmer of the Year and National Young Farmer of the Year and is on many committees and advisory teams including the National Farmers Young Farmers Forum and Young Rural Leaders.
The Apprenticeship Specialist Career Achievement Award
Fiona Bakes, 25 is the owner operator of Reflections Dance Studio, a high energy modern studio catering for all ages developing and inspiring a wide range of dance and theatrical techniques. Since Fiona has taken ownership of the business, student numbers have doubled and profit has increased by 250%. In addition to the three fully equipped studios’ in the Burnie facility, additional classes are held in Wynyard and Ulverstone. Graduation for the 600 students each year is one of the biggest annual events held in Burnie with over 2000 guests in attendance. Fiona’s next aim is to introduce drama to the studio.