The countdown to WA Seniors Week 2024, running from November 10 to 17 has begun, bringing with it the excitement of the 2024 Western Australian Seniors Awards. These awards celebrate the significant contributions made by older people and the organisations that support them across Western Australia.
Each year, the Seniors Awards highlight the important role seniors play in building vibrant communities and promoting healthy, active ageing. The event is hosted by Council on the Ageing WA (COTA WA), in partnership with the Department of Communities and Lotterywest, to recognise individuals and organisations who go above and beyond to support older Western Australians.
COTA WA, in partnership with the Western Australian Government, Lotterywest and the Department of Communities, is proud to announce the finalists for this year’s awards. These individuals and organisations have shown exceptional dedication and commitment to improving the lives of seniors across the state.
WA Senior of the Year – Metropolitan:
● Robyn Forshaw, Bedford
● Suresh Rajan, Stirling
● Wendy Harman, Armadale
WA Senior of the Year – Regional:
● Bob Symons, Yakamia
● Irene Davey, Aunty Irene, Dampier Peninsula
● Micheal Pemberton, Albany
WA Age Friendly Business of the Year:
● Have a Go News
● Switched on Seniors
● Wheelchairs For Kids Australia
WA Age Friendly Local Government of the Year:
● City of Rockingham
● City of Baywater
● City of Fremantle
WA Seniors Advocate of the Year:
● Anna Harrison
● Christine Zambonetti
● Stephen Edmonds
The Hon. Don Punch MLA, Minister for Seniors and Ageing, praised the finalists, saying: “These awards are a chance to celebrate the incredible efforts of older Western Australians and the people and organisations that support them. Seniors across WA play a crucial role in our communities—whether through volunteering, mentoring, or advocating for others. These contributions, large and small, are enriching communities and lives across the State. I encourage all Western Australians to get involved in celebrating the priceless contributions of our older people during 2024 Seniors week celebrations.”
Dr. Carmen Lawrence, Chair of COTA WA, shared her excitement about the event, saying: “The Seniors Awards celebrate the diverse ways older Western Australians contribute to our society. It’s a time to acknowledge not just their achievements but also their resilience and leadership. This year’s finalists are inspiring examples of the positive difference seniors and their advocates are making—from community services to health, arts, and education.”
Dr Lawrence added that the strong response to this year’s nominations reflects the growing appreciation for the vital role older people play. “The passion and dedication shown by our finalists remind us that ageing is a time of opportunity and contribution, not limitation.”
The awards ceremony will be held on Tuesday, November 12, as part of Seniors Week, with winners announced by the Hon. Don Punch MLA.
