National Seniors Australia (NSA) is reminding Australians to nominate for the Inaugural Everald Compton Community Champion Medal before nominations close on August 15.
The medal honours NSA’s Founding Fathers’ long standing and outstanding contribution to the Australian community while celebrating everyday champions whose grassroot experiences and selfless contributions make a significant difference to their own communities.
“At NSA we are constantly reminded of the amazing, yet humble members of our older community. Whether they’re volunteering, donating time and skills, or caring for others – what they do is so important,” NSA chief executive Mr Chris Grice said.
“We’ve heard from some inspiring nominees including a Queenslander who donates time helping seniors living with dementia in her rural community, a South Australian who has donated hundreds of hours to surf lifesaving and promotes seniors fitness, a Tasmanian who has helped to bring about positive change to end-of-life care for terminal patients and others who volunteer at residential care facilities, hospitals, and community clubs.
“The medal acknowledges these unsung heroes among older Australians. It also reflects NSA’s values of fairness, excellence, and respect exemplified by Everald’s own experience and achievements.”
Mr Everald Compton said he was humbled to be honoured by NSA in a way that recognises the contribution of older Australians and looks forward to learning about even more nominees and the way they help to shape their communities for the better.
“When I began NSA almost 50 years ago, I never imagined it would grow to a peak body, advocating for all older Australians. While NSA advocates on a range of issues from the Age Pension to aged care, it is the celebration of older Australians which, as the Founder, I feel most proud,” Mr Compton said.
“Too often and too easily, older Australians get cast aside. But they’re an asset and shouldn’t be ignored. At 92 I am proof age brings with it experience, wisdom and a spirit that should be appreciated and celebrated.”
Mr Grice said he encourages people who know an older unsung hero to check the NSA website for eligibility criteria and apply before 15 August.
“This is the perfect opportunity to honour a great Australian we all know and love and one we are yet to discover.”
