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20 May 2011

Victorians are being urged to nominate outstanding seniors who make a remarkable difference through volunteer work for the 2011 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.

These awards recognise the tireless and extraordinary community service of older people across Victoria.

Community members, service and volunteer organisations and local councils are encouraged to nominate seniors for an award to honour their selfless contribution to the community.

To be eligible for an award, nominees must be over 60 years of age, an Australian citizen and a resident of Victoria.

There are a number of awards for which seniors can be recognised.

The Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to their local community and Victoria.

Last year’s Senior of the Year was 82-year-old Ted Kitto from Shepparton. Mr Kitto was recognised for his work with isolated older people and children’s charities such as Kiwanis HeartKids and the Terrific Kids program. Ted was also involved in Meals on Wheels and helped establish a toy library.

All nominees are also eligible for the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards. These awards celebrate seniors whose talents, achievements and contributions have significantly benefited their communities.

The Healthy and Active Living Award is presented to a senior who is helping to build an active and healthy community, while the Veteran Community Award is presented to a senior who has made an exceptional contribution to veterans.

This year, there is a new award to recognise the large part seniors play in advancing the benefits of cultural diversity. The Promotion of the Multiculturalism Award will be presented to a senior who has made a significant contribution to promoting the benefits of cultural diversity in their local community or to the broader community of Victoria.

The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards will be presented at a special reception at Government House on 30 September 2011.

If you know an inspirational and passionate older community volunteer, then nominating them is a wonderful way to show your appreciation. For more information, and to obtain a nomination form, call Seniors Information Victoria on 1300 135 090 or visit www.seniors.vic.gov.au. Nominations close on 22 July 2011.