Cardinia Shire Celebrates Australia Day Award Winners 2025

This year’s Cardinia Shire Australia Day Award winners are: 

Held at the Cardinia Cultural Centre in Pakenham, the awards ceremony was an opportunity to show gratitude and recognise the efforts of so many passionate volunteers across the shire who work tirelessly for their local communities. 

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik congratulated the 2025 winners and nominees and thanked them for their valuable contribution to the Cardinia Shire community. 

“The awards night was a wonderful celebration of our community’s spirit and dedication,” Mayor Kowarzik said. 

“Our volunteers are the backbone of our community, working tirelessly behind the scenes to make Cardinia Shire a better place for everyone. Their enthusiasm and commitment are truly inspiring. 

“On behalf of Cardinia Shire Council and the entire community, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our 2025 Australia Day award winners and nominees. Your efforts make our Shire, and our nation, a vibrant and welcoming place to live.” 

Mayor Cr Kowarzik congratulated 2025 Citizens of the Year Julia and David Graham on their deserving win. 

“Julia and David have been the heart and soul behind the Cockatoo Community Food Bank at St. Luke’s for the past six years and their unwavering commitment has provided essential support to over 80 individuals each week in Cockatoo and surrounding areas,” Mayor Kowarzik said. 

“They are not just service providers; they are advocates and community builders and their compassion, advocacy, and tireless efforts have made a profound impact, ensuring that everyone feels supported, empowered, and valued”. 

Cr Kowarzik said the 2025 Senior Citizen of the Year, Magda Lane, is dedicated and compassionate member of the Emerald community and has been for over 40 years.  

“Magda has also volunteered with Palliative Care South East Ltd for 36 years, providing companionship and support to over 60 terminally ill individuals and their families. Additionally her passion for youth development is evident in her work facilitating camps, youth groups, and international humanitarian trips.” 

“Magda’s selflessness and leadership have touched thousands of lives, creating a legacy of compassion, resilience, and community spirit.” 

Cr Kowarzik said the 2025 Young Citizen of the Year, Declan Kruzicevic-King, has proven to be an inspiring and enthusiastic volunteer whose initiative, compassion, and leadership are truly commendable.  

“Declan has been mentoring Joeys and Cubs, and helping to plan and run engaging, inclusive, and safe programs since rejoining 1st Cockatoo Scouts. He also lends a hand at the monthly Cockatoo Market, running the Scout group’s jam donut fundraising stall and assisting other stallholders”, Mayor Kowarzik said. 

Cr Kowarzik said the 2025 Community Event of the Year – Hills MND Big Freeze – was a huge success raising over $113,000 for MND research, achieving the highest fundraising total in Victoria and drawing over 2,000 attendees to the event.  

“The Hills MND Big Freeze was inspired by Matt Stickland’s courageous battle with motor neurone disease (MND). The fundraising event was made possible by five dedicated volunteers and the support of CFA, SES, medical teams, national sports players, local organisations, and public figures.” Mayor Kowarzik said. 

“Thank you to all of our 2025 Australia Day award nominees and winners for your unwavering dedication and for the positive impact you have on our community. We are incredibly grateful for all that you do!” 

To find out more about the 2025 Cardinia Shire Australia Day Awards nominees and winners, visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/AustraliadayAwards.