WA Seniors Awards

2023 WA Seniors Advocate

Marika Krstevska
Marika is a dedicated community champion with multilingual skills, Marika has advocated for seniors from diverse communities, ensuring culturally responsive aged care services for over a decade.

Kedy Kristal 
Kedy is an exemplary advocate for older LGBTI individuals, Kedy has pioneered innovative initiatives, including the LGBTI Village Hub, empowering and connecting LGBTI seniors, while representing their voice at various government levels.

Professor Loretta Baldassar
Loretta has led a social revolution in understanding aging and migration impact, challenging ageism, and promoting a whole-life approach to aging. She has facilitated groundbreaking interventions for diverse older populations.

2023 WA Senior of the Year: Regional

David Walker
David is a respected Ngarluma elder, David champions Aboriginal rights, culture, and personal responsibility, inspiring a generation to bridge two worlds and uphold compassion.

Ybeltje (Ypie) Thomson
Ypie's 32-year dedication to the Tammin community includes leadership in the Tammin Seniors Committee, volunteering as a senior shopping bus driver, advocating for senior housing, delivering Meals on Wheels, and actively participating despite being a full-time caregiver.

Bernice Climie
Bernie is an icon of volunteerism and advocacy for seniors, contributing over two decades to numerous community organisations, including initiating the Seniors Lunch Group to connect generations and provide support, showing leadership and community spirit.

WA Senior of the Year: Metropolitan

Benito Chan
Benito is a dedicated advocate for dementia awareness and CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) seniors, an autobiographical playwright, and full-time caregiver, and founder of PETAWA to promote multicultural interests in the arts.

Michael Wiggin
Mike's tireless commitment to the Men's Shed movement and woodworking, exemplifies his dedication to creating thriving communities and supporting over 275 members.

Dorota Pietowska
Dorota is a champion of culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and has dedicated over 40 years to supporting migrants, especially seniors, through volunteering, governance roles, and initiatives like the Umbrella Multicultural Community Care Services, leaving a lasting impact on aged care and multiculturalism in Western Australia.

WA Age Friendly Business

Connect Victoria Park Inc.
Connect Victoria Park is a registered community housing provider in Victoria Park, WA, dedicated to offering social and affordable housing for individuals aged 60+. They stand out with their innovative housing and hub service model, featuring the unique 'Village Hub' that promotes active and healthy aging through community-driven social gatherings, workshops, and classes.

Nirrumbuk Aboriginal Corporation

Nirrumbuk, established in 1993, serves the Kimberley region and partners with the Broome Community of Elders to reduce loneliness among elderly residents. By organising social events, raising awareness about elder abuse, and collaborating with other community groups and services, they aim to empower vulnerable individuals, including those with disabilities, to interact with their community and access essential information.

Northern Suburbs Community Legal Centre - Older People’s Rights Service
The Older People's Rights Service (OPRS), established in 2007, is a multifaceted organisation providing legal advice, support, and advocacy to older adults at risk of elder abuse. They focus on empowering older adults to make informed decisions and address various types of elder abuse through a holistic approach, collaborating with partners and stakeholders to enhance the system's response.

WA Age Friendly Local Government

City of Mandurah
City of Mandurah's 'Dandjoo Kaadadjan Mia' Mandurah Seniors Centre has been a vital resource for the community, serving since 1990, offering activities, services, and a sense of connection to Mandurah's 32.2% senior demographic. The center's impact is evident with over 10,000 monthly visitors, diverse services, and a strong emphasis on community involvement, empowering seniors.

City of Melville
City of Melville's initiatives, including the Age Friendly Melville Assistance Fund, Activelink, forums, dementia support, and intergenerational events, have enhanced the lives of older residents, offering support, engagement, and a positive perspective on aging. These programs cater to a culturally diverse and aging population, fostering independence and overall well-being.

The City of Fremantle

The City of Fremantle's Ambassador Program is a volunteer initiative that supports the Fremantle Visitor Centre, bringing together experienced volunteers to promote and enhance the city. The program not only benefits the local community but also provides volunteers with a sense of purpose, social connections, and self-worth, with their resilience highlighted during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.