Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulated each of the award recipients and acknowledged the contributions they have made to our region. 

“We are lucky to have so many residents who continue to make meaningful and important changes to Shepparton. It is great to be able to acknowledge their achievements through the Australia Day Shepparton Awards for 2025,” Cr Sali said.

“A big congratulations to the five winners of the overall Greater Shepparton of the Year Awards. These residents have each made a huge impact to our region in their own unique ways.” 

The winners in the overall Greater Shepparton awards are:

• Citizen of the Year: Shane O’Sullivan
• Young Citizen of the Year: Emme Cole
• Senior Citizen of the Year: Vince Vincitorio
• Senior Sports Award: Myles Higgins
• Community Event of the Year: Shepparton Parkrun

"Thank you to everyone who took the time to submit a nomination to recognise their fellow citizens,” Cr Sali said.

See below a list of all of the award winners, as well as individual profiles on each recipient.

Overall winners

Citizen of the Year	Shane O’Sullivan
Young Citizen of the Year	Emme Cole
Senior Citizen of the Year	Vince Vincitorio
Senior Sports Award	Myles Higgins
Community Event of the Year	Shepparton parkrun

Shepparton winners

Citizen of the Year	Shane O’Sullivan
Senior Citizen of the Year	Jeanette Doherty
Young Citizen of the Year	Emme Cole
Senior Sports Award (over 65 years)	Myles Higgins
Junior Sports Award (under 18 years)	Elwin John Biju
Community Event of the Year	Shepparton Parkrun

Tatura winners

Citizen of the Year	Alex Carter
Senior Citizen of the Year	Vince Vincitorio
Sports Award	Liam Scopelliti
Senior Sports Award (over 65 years)	Alex Ranson
Junior Sports Award (under 18 years)	Gerry McCarthy
Community Event of the Year	Black Dog Institute/One Foot Forward
Community Event of the Year – Merrigum	Merrigum Halloween Event

Dookie winners

Citizen of the Year	Trevor Feldtmann
Senior Citizen of the Year	Andrew Sands
Sports Award	Megan O’Connor
Community Event of the Year	Dookie Drum Muster

Murchison winners

Citizen of the Year	Debbie Morris
Sports Award	2024 Murchison Football Netball Club

Mooroopna winners

Citizen of the Year	Barb Joyce
Senior Citizen of the Year	Graeme Brewer

Winner profiles

Shepparton

Citizen of the Year – Shane O’Sullivan

Shane O’Sullivan is the driving force behind Greater Shepparton’s most successful annual fundraiser, Shepparton’s Biggest Blokes Lunch. The event raises awareness about men’s health, encouraging simple steps to improve wellbeing and protect against illness.

A prostate cancer survivor, Shane joined the Committee at its inception in 2009 as Deputy Chair and has served as Chair for the past eight years. His good mate, Chris McPherson, founded the event after his own prostate cancer diagnosis. Despite Chris’s passing in 2015, the event continues to grow under Shane’s leadership. In 2024, it welcomed over 1,030 attendees and raised more than $250,000. Shane’s passion, dedication, and strong connections within Greater Shepparton are pivotal to the event’s ongoing success.

Shane volunteers countless hours coordinating meetings, sourcing sponsors, and securing donations to ensure every dollar raised supports the community. His tireless efforts have created a significant legacy through Shepparton’s Biggest Blokes Lunch and inspired widespread support for men’s health initiatives.

Beyond this, Shane has contributed to several other fundraising committees, demonstrating his deep commitment to making a positive impact in Greater Shepparton. His efforts exemplify community spirit and the power of volunteering to effect meaningful change.

• Intek GV Centre Fundraising committee in the 1980s for several years
• Connect GV from 2015 to 2020
• GV Family Care Fund raising Committee between 2010 and 2020
• Chair of St Mel’s Primary School board in the 1990s
• Shepparton Lawn Tennis Club - Member for 30 years, on the Committee for many years
• Past Committee Member and Team Manager at the Shepparton United Football Club
• Graduated as a Fairley Fellow in 2005.
• And, part of his time at Worktrainers he ran the Goulburn Valley’s Labour office organising pickers for fruit growers throughout the region from 2004 to 2006.

Senior Citizen of the Year – Jeanette Doherty

Jeanette Doherty has worked tirelessly over many years contributing and volunteering across many aspects of sport, community and charity to enhance the lives of so many people. From coaching junior tennis and badminton, many varied administration roles across a wide number of committees, to providing much loved entertainment through theatre and performing music to so many. Her commitment and dedication has been truly remarkable.

Her current contributions include Current Chair of the Greater Shepparton City Council Positive Aging Committee, Carols by Candlelight Committee member, Scots Uniting Church Committee Member with regular volunteering roles including Splinters Music Group, Running tours of the Shepparton Public Cemetery and contributing to “Lost Shepparton” by providing great knowledge of local history and a wide variety of photographs. 

Jeanette has also been an esteemed member of the Greater Shepparton Visitor Centre volunteer team in the past. Wherever Jeanette has participated or volunteered, she has actively played an impactful role to all groups.  Her involvement in every aspect has been truly outstanding. 

Young Citizen of the Year – Emme Cole

A talented and versatile sportsperson, Emme Cole is a standout hockey player known for her skill, stamina, and passion for the game. Primarily a defender, Emme excels in both attacking and defensive roles, with the endurance to cover midfield positions and transition the ball from defence to attack when needed. Her love for hockey extends beyond the field, as she trains junior and senior players, breaking down skills to make learning easier for less experienced teammates.

Emme has been instrumental in promoting hockey to younger generations, participating in roadshows to introduce primary school children to the sport and encouraging them to get involved. Her dedication to growing local participation reflects her enthusiasm and leadership. A three-time representative of the State of Victoria, Emme’s commitment to hockey has seen her balance rigorous training in Melbourne with regular attendance at her local club, Strikers. She supports junior members’ development while helping newer senior players refine their basic skills.

A student at Notre Dame College and previously at Shepparton Christian College, Emme has received accolades that inspire her peers to pursue their sporting goals. At a time when many girls step back from sports, Emme continues to excel, playing at the highest junior levels in the state and senior Vic League teams.

Senior Sports Award (over 65 years) – Myles Higgins

Myles Higgins is the deserving winner of this year’s Senior Sports Person of the Year. A multi-discipline cyclist, Myles has competed in Road, Time Trial, Cyclo-Cross, Gravel Racing, Marathon MTB, and Olympic Cross Country events, excelling at international, national, state, and club levels.

A member of Shepparton, Cobram Barooga, and Seymour Broadford Cycling Clubs, Myles contributes to race committees, working bees, and mechanical upkeep of club equipment. His remarkable achievements include:

• 1992 Australian National Champion MTB Downhill (Thredbo, Gold)
• 2014 National Series Champion MTB Cross Country (Mt Buller, Gold)
• 2019 Oceania Continental Champion MMAS 9 MTB Cross Country (Mt Beauty, Gold)
• 2022 Australian Champion Masters 10 Cyclo-Cross (Wollongong, Gold)
• Australian National Series Masters 9 Rd 2 Cyclo-Cross (Adelaide, Gold)

A Vietnam Veteran and retired mechanical engineer, Myles has supported school camps with MTB and bicycle maintenance programs. Since retiring, he and his wife have cycled through outback Australia on adventures spanning up to 6,500km.

Beyond cycling, Myles inspires others to stay active and engaged in sport regardless of age. He’s also a foundation member of the Australia Native Bonsai Club and a Royal Flying Doctor fundraiser.

Junior Sports Award (under 18 years) – Elwin John Biju

Elwin is an 18-year-old badminton player from Shepparton with a passion for the sport that began at age eight, training with his father. Since moving to Shepparton in 2018, Elwin has shown remarkable dedication, striving to improve his skills despite limited local coaching and facilities. His "never give up" attitude has been key to his progress.

To support others, Elwin and his father started the Badminton Shepparton Academy (BSA), where they coach players of all ages, preparing them for competitions. Currently 25 students train under Elwin, who is committed to fostering talent in the community.

Elwin’s list of achievements is impressive for his age. In 2023, he won the Junior Classic Shepparton and Bendigo men’s singles and doubles titles. In 2024, he earned third place at the Victorian Junior Teams’ Championship (U19) and was recognized as a regional top player.

A member of Shepp Feathers, Shepparton Badminton Association, and Badminton Victoria, Elwin is also an active member of the Shema community. His ultimate goal is to compete in the Olympics while raising Shepparton’s profile in badminton. Elwin’s dedication and passion for the sport are truly inspiring.

Community Event of the Year – Shepparton Parkrun

Events don’t happen on their own, they require dedicated and passionate leaders. This year, Chelsea Nicholson has demonstrated exceptional leadership in managing the Shepparton parkrun. Chelsea fosters a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where all participants and volunteers feel valued and supported. Her dedication has created a vibrant and supportive culture that defines the event.

Chelsea’s organisational skills are exemplary. From coordinating volunteers to setting up the course, she ensures every aspect of parkrun runs smoothly. Her ability to anticipate and address challenges has been crucial to the event's continued success, week after week.

Through her hard work, Shepparton Parkrun has become a vital community hub, bringing together people of all ages and abilities to enjoy physical activity and social connection. Under Chelsea’s leadership, participation has grown significantly, with over 200 runners regularly attending each Saturday morning at Victoria Park Lake. The event has also seen an increase in volunteers, young and old, who contribute to its success.

Chelsea’s efforts have fostered friendships, promoted healthy lifestyles, and strengthened community ties. Her dedication ensures this event continues to thrive and positively impact the lives of many.

Tatura

Citizen of the Year – Alex Carter

Alex’s recognition as Citizen of the Year is well deserved, reflecting his contributions to the Tatura community. As a long-time member of the Tatura Fire Brigade, Alex played a vital role in providing fire and rescue services to the region. He was also a founding member of the Tatura Men’s Shed in 2011, where he excelled in designing, building, and operating the kitchen, preparing thousands of meals over 13 years. His efforts fostered a supportive environment that greatly benefited men’s mental health and community connection.

Alex’s talents extended to teaching woodworking skills to children at Sacred Heart Primary School, earning admiration for his guidance. His projects, including a Christmas tree displayed in the Mall, showcased the children’s work.

In addition, Alex’s dedication to community service includes maintaining equipment, volunteering for the Community Planning Group, and advocating for Tatura’s RV-friendly status, which has boosted local tourism.

Through his engineering business, Alex has designed innovative rural machinery to enhance safety and efficiency for farmers. His winemaking efforts at the Men’s Shed have even earned regional awards. Alex’s unwavering generosity, skills, and determination have left a lasting impact, making him a deserving recipient of this award.

Senior Citizen of the Year – Vince Vincitorio

Vince Vincitorio arrived in Melbourne from Italy on 5 March 1952, at the age of eight, bringing with him a deep sense of community. These values guided his life as he helped others, just as his family was supported when they settled in Tatura.

At 15, Vince became an interpreter at the State Rivers and Water Supply (now Goulburn Murray Water), helping new Italian residents find employment. He served ten years with the Tatura Fire Brigade and RSL, 15 years as a trainer for the Tatura Football Netball Club, including six years as head trainer which saw him earn a life membership, and also supported the Goulburn Valley Football League and Melbourne football development squad.

A dedicated Lions Club member, Vince led efforts to build outdoor furniture for hospital patients and staff during his wife Rhonda’s cancer treatment. He volunteered as a breakfast announcer for 13 years at One FM 98.5, earning life membership, and formed “The Larrakins”, a music group entertaining seniors and raising funds for causes like the Tatura Hospice and Cancer Support Group.

Vince and Rhonda’s open garden events raised funds for Tatura Girl Guides, Make a Wish Foundation, Cancer Support Group and other charitable groups. Vince’s lifelong dedication to community service has left a lasting legacy in Tatura.

Sports Award – Liam Scopelliti

Liam has consistently exemplified the qualities of a true sportsman, earning admiration for his leadership, teamwork, and respect for others. His resilience and ability to overcome challenges with positivity make him a standout figure in the Tatura sports community.

In 2024, Liam was awarded the "Bulldog of the Year" by the Tatura Football & Netball Club, recognising his dedication and commitment. As coach of the Reserves Football team during a difficult season, Liam tirelessly worked to field a team each week despite challenges. His optimism, calm demeanour, and willingness to help with tasks, from coaching to washing dishes, made him an invaluable part of the club.

Liam’s cricket achievements are equally remarkable. Starting his career with Cooma, he demonstrated leadership early, captaining his junior team in his final year. In 2023, Liam was promoted to captain of Cooma’s T20 team and earned the A Grade Club Champion title, a testament to his skill and dedication.

Currently serving the community at the Tatura & Shepparton Police Station, Liam continues to inspire on and off the field. His contributions to football, cricket, and the broader community make him a truly deserving recipient.

Senior Sports Award (over 65 years) – Alex Ranson

Alex’s lifelong passion for sport, particularly cricket, has left a mark on the Tatura community. While he played football for Tatura, he is best known for his cricketing prowess as a player, mentor, and coach.

He played for Northwest Mooroopna, Tatura, and Cooma, with the Cooma Recreation Reserve now named the “Alex Ranson Pavilion” in his honour. As a coach with International Accreditation through the Victorian Cricket Association, under the mentorship of English test cricketer Frank Tyson, Alex coached at Dulwich College in London for 22 years and later at Stewart Melville College in Edinburgh.

Alex’s dedication earned him life memberships with Tatura and Cooma Cricket Clubs, Kyabram & District Cricket Association, and Goulburn Murray Cricket Association. He is also a Hall of Fame member at Bendigo Country Week Cricket and an inductee into the Goulburn Murray Cricket Hall of Fame.

A lifelong Tatura resident, Alex has contributed as a church leader, educator, and community volunteer, always willing to help others without seeking recognition. His roles include President of Tatura Rotary, member of the Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of the Community Youth Support Scheme. Alex and his wife Gwen are beloved figures, embodying selflessness and community spirit.

Junior Sports Award (under 18 years) – Gerry McCarthy

Gerry has demonstrated excellence and leadership in the Tatura community through his remarkable achievements in sports. At just 16 years of age, he captained the Tatura Football Netball Club (TFNC) under-16 football team in 2024, leading them to the finals. He was awarded the team’s Best and Fairest and placed third in the Goulburn Valley League Best and Fairest.

In addition to football, Gerry excelled in junior soccer, playing a key role for the Tatura Junior Soccer Club alongside his brother, where they won multiple premierships and awards. He also debuted for the TFNC seniors, showcasing his talent and maturity.

Gerry’s contributions extend to cricket, where he helped secure the 2024 under-16 premiership with the Tatura Cricket Club, and to tennis, where he actively encourages younger players as a member of the Tatura Tennis Club.

Known for his excellent public speaking and ability to motivate others, Gerry leads by example, inspiring younger members of the community through his sportsmanship, respect, and positive attitude on and off the field. His dedication to fair play and teamwork across multiple clubs has left a lasting impact, making him a true role model for Tatura’s younger athletes.

Community Event of the Year – Black Dog Institute/One Foot Forward

Glen Newton has dedicated years to supporting local sports clubs in Tatura and raising awareness about men’s mental health. For the past three years, Glen has been heavily involved in promoting mental health awareness through the Black Dog Institute and its “One Foot Forward” initiative. His remarkable efforts have raised $24,109 over this period, including $11,074 in 2024 alone, ranking him 5th out of 29,000 participants nationwide. To achieve this, Glen has walked over 6,145 kilometres in total, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the cause.

Glen has also integrated his fundraising into the community by organising a highly successful golf day at Hill Top Golf-Bowls Club. With support from local sponsors and businesses, this event has become a cornerstone for raising funds and awareness about mental health. Through these efforts, Glen has not only raised money but also educated many on the impact of mental health issues and the importance of support.

In addition, Glen sponsors the Ladies Monthly Medal at Hill Top, the Tatura Football & Netball Club, and the under-16 Football team in Tatura. His tireless dedication to the community and mental health awareness makes him a deserving recipient of the Tatura Community Event of the Year award.

Dookie

Citizen of the Year – Trevor Feldtmann

Trevor has been an invaluable contributor to the Dookie community for many years. As Secretary of the Cashel East Cemetery Trust for over eight years, he has successfully secured grants for a safe to store important cemetery documents and maps, all while fulfilling his other secretarial duties with dedication.

Trevor has also served as Treasurer of the Dookie Bowls Club for approximately four years, during which he coordinated grants to replace the shared defibrillator for the Dookie Township. His financial expertise and commitment have been vital to the club’s operations.

A proud member of the Dookie CFA Brigade for more than nine years, Trevor has served as Secretary and Treasurer for eight of those years. With 118 callouts since 2016, he is often the first to arrive and is a reliable, hardworking volunteer dedicated to giving back to the community where he was raised.

Trevor is also a founding committee member of the Dookie Film Group, established in 2015. As the group’s monthly projectionist, his reliability, punctuality, and quiet sense of humour are greatly appreciated.

Senior Citizen of the Year – Andrew Sands

Andrew is a dedicated and creative contributor to the Dookie community. As the publican at the Gladstone Hotel and former operator of the Artist Tree in Mary Street, Andrew has brought people together through his passion for art and community.

Currently, he is coordinating the upgrade of the Dookie Community Garden in Perdita Street, which features two art sculptures, with more planned for 2025. Andrew’s artistic talent and extensive knowledge of indigenous plants have also shone through his work with the University of Melbourne, where he managed a seed collection and indigenous seed bank for several years.

In addition, Andrew has run popular art classes in Dookie, inspiring many with his creativity. He has been an active member of various community groups, including the Dookie & District Development Forum, Dookie Life, and Dookie Arts Group.

A quiet achiever, Andrew’s contributions make him truly deserving of recognition.

Sports Award – Megan O’Connor

Megan has been a dedicated volunteer at the Dookie United Football & Netball Club (DUFNC) for most of her life and is a proud Life Member.

Over the years, Megan has contributed in countless roles, including netball umpire, executive and general committee member, membership coordinator, club photographer, newsletter editor, and historian. Her dedication to compiling the club’s newsletters, featured in the local ‘Saddleback News’, plays a vital role in ensuring DUFNC maintains a strong presence in the community while also preserving its history.

Megan’s passion for the club shines during events like reunions, where she curates displays of historical photos, artefacts, and memorabilia, helping to create memorable and successful occasions.

Although she avoids the spotlight, Megan’s tireless work and commitment to DUFNC does not go unnoticed.

Community Event of the Year – Dookie Drum Muster

The Dookie Lions Club has been proudly supporting the national ‘Drum Muster’ program for 11 years, helping farmers responsibly recycle used chemical drums. This program not only provides an environmentally friendly solution for drum disposal but also prevents them from being burned or buried as landfill, protecting the local environment.

The Lions Club receives $0.28 for each drum collected, with the funds going toward various community projects, including the popular Dookie Rail Trail Fitness Station. Regular collection days, promoted through social media and word of mouth, have significantly increased participation among district farmers, earning Dookie recognition as an award-winning collection centre within the Drum Muster Program nationwide.

Since the program began, an impressive 119,605 drums have been delivered to the Dookie site. On collection days, around 10 Lions members volunteer their time to receive and inspect drums, ensuring they are free of chemical residue. The effort is not without its perks—volunteers are treated to a morning tea prepared by club members, fostering camaraderie and community spirit.

The Dookie Lions Club’s commitment to Drum Muster exemplifies how local action can make a significant environmental impact while supporting meaningful community initiatives.

Murchison

Citizen of the Year – Debbie Morris

Debbie is a kind and caring individual who is always willing to lend a helping hand. Since moving to Murchison with her family in 1995, she has been deeply involved in the community, dedicating countless hours to various groups and initiatives.

Over the years, Debbie has served as Secretary/Treasurer for the Murchison Football Netball Club, Murchison Swimming Pool, and the Murchison & District Australia Day Committee. She has also been an active volunteer at St Bridgets Church, assisting with window cleaning, catering, and roster management, as well as supporting the Murchison Primary School.

A dedicated teacher for many years, Debbie retired this year, leaving behind a lasting legacy of service and care. Her contributions have made a significant impact, and she continues to be a valued member of the Murchison community. Debbie’s selflessness and commitment to others truly embody the spirit of community.

Sports Award – 2024 Murchison Football Netball Club

Council did not receive a biography before the publish date, the Murchison Football Netball Club bio will be published following the Award ceremony.

Mooroopna

Senior Citizen of the Year – Graeme Brewer

Graeme is a highly talented musician known for his creativity, quick reading, memorisation skills, and perfect pitch. He dedicated 33 years to teaching piano, organ, and music theory at Goulburn Valley Grammar School, where he also accompanied school productions.

For 38 years, Graeme has been the volunteer organist at Mooroopna Uniting Church, and he served as the pianist for Echuca Theatre Company for over three decades. His contributions extend to performing for Helen Jenke’s Initial Stages and as a 16 year member of Sing Australia Shepparton.

Graeme has played the organ at various churches across the Goulburn Valley and accompanied guest artists at the Gregory Awards and several STAG productions. With Anne Olsen, he created a CD to support the Cancer Council and currently plays for a sing-along group at Shepparton U3A. Graeme's enduring passion for music has made an extraordinary impact on his community.

Citizen of the Year – Barb Joyce

Barb has made outstanding contributions to the Mooroopna and Greater Shepparton community through her tireless dedication and leadership. She was a trusted figure at the Commonwealth Bank before its closure, actively supporting its partnership with the Very Special Kids fundraising initiative, featuring the iconic Pink Pig campaign. A long-standing member of the Rotary Club of Mooroopna, Barb has served as President three times and held various key roles, including Secretary, Treasurer, Community Services Director, and Youth Services Director. Notably, she introduced the “Quiet Achiever Award,” recognising students who excel through hard work without seeking the spotlight.

Barb spearheaded the Midnight Basketball program, offering disadvantaged youth an eight-week program of food, mentorship, and fun at the Shepparton Basketball Stadium, positively impacting over 60 participants per session. She is also central to Mooroopna’s New Year’s Eve Festival, managing stage performances, from setup to dismantling, and coordinates Australia Day celebrations, often found behind the BBQ.

Additionally, Barb helped establish a Rotary Satellite Club in Shepparton, which later transitioned into a Rotaract Club. For over a decade, she has served on the Mooroopna Community Planning Group, including three years as secretary. Barb's unwavering commitment to her community is a testament to her passion for making a difference.