Media Statements - Minister praises Western Australia's senior achievers

23/10/00

Senior Australian Achievers from Western Australia were honoured at a gala ceremony in Perth today.

Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Rob Johnson presented certificates signed by Prime Minister John Howard to the five WA recipients, who were all nominated for the Senior Australian of the Year Award 2000.

Australian of the Year Sir Gustav Nossal also addressed the gathering and praised the senior achievers for their outstanding contribution to WA.

The Senior Australian of the Year Awards were staged jointly by the National Australia Day Council in partnership with the National Seniors Association.

The five Western Australian recipients were:

champion swimmer Judith Drake-Brockman, 80, of Cottesloe;

poet and story-teller Arthur Leggett, 85, of Eden Hill;

former Bunbury mayor Dr Ernest Manea, 75;

youth, frail aged and disability advocate, Pat Morris, 66, of Thornlie; and -

Skillshare founder and youth worker Laura Tolliday, 72, of Morley.

Mr Johnson said all five recipients were outstanding examples of active citizenship.

“These are people who have spent a lifetime pursuing both individual and community goals,” he said.

Minister praises Western Australia’s senior achievers.

“They have succeeded in diverse fields but they all have one thing in common - their success has extended beyond personal accomplishment to touch the lives of those around them.”

Media contact: Fran Hodge (08) 9215 4800