The founder and co-ordinator of the local chapter of Australia’s leading food rescue organisation has been named Sunshine Coast Citizen of the Year.
Michele Lipner from OzHarvest was honoured in a ceremony on Friday morning for her dedication to helping others, reducing food waste and advocating for vital behaviour change.
Ms Lipner, from Coolum, and her team of volunteers collect more than 15,000kg of quality surplus food from 40 food donors a month, redistributing it to 45 agencies to feed people in need.
The organisation also delivers programs such as Cooking for a Cause and Food Education and Sustainability Training to help the community make better sustainability choices.
The 2023 Senior Citizen of the Year is Nambour’s Gary Langford, who is president of the Nambour Local Ambulance Committee and has given his time and leadership in many roles across multiple organisations and charities.
Award-winning artist and songwriter Mason Hope-Kassulke is the Young Citizen of the Year.
He was recognised for his advocacy and support of mental health, his volunteer work with 4 Paws Animal Rescue and his involvement with arts planning for the region.
The other award winners were:
- Community Group or Organisation: The Board Meeting Surf Charity and Sunshine Coast Riding for the Disabled
- Sport and Recreation: Motiv8sports Sunshine Coast
- Sustainability: Bamboo Projects
- Creative: Sunshine Coast Art Group
Acting mayor Rick Baberowski said the awards celebrated the achievements of the people and organisations that form the backbone of the Sunshine Coast community.
“This year, we received 63 Sunshine Coast Australia Day nominations across seven categories, with a common thread weaving through each one – every nominee was praised for their selflessness and their dedication to helping others,” he said.
“Together the nominations form a glorious account of the actions of everyday people who make a difference. It’s a humbling account and every nominee should feel very proud.
“The Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards provide an essential platform to recognise the efforts of the special individuals, charities and organisations that support our region and to say thank you.
“On behalf of Sunshine Coast – to all those nominated both this year and in previous years – a sincere thank you.”
Click here for a full list of award recipients.
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