Nominations for the prestigious accolade were received nationwide but it was Kilkivan-based Rosie Fitzgerald who took home the silverware for her tireless and selfless work to improve the experience of ageing for residents in her community of Kilkivan - a rural region around 50kms northwest of Gympie, helping residents to stay connected and to age in place rather than relocate to larger centres, away from family and friends.
In 2020, Rosie founded the Kilkivan District Community Care Association Incorporated (KDCCAI) which included the establishment of Seniors Social Hubs to strengthen social connections. KDCCAI purchased a community minivan, driven by volunteers, to provide transport to medical appointments and social activities. KDCCAI also continues to advocate for improved access to Home Care Packages.
Under Rosie's leadership, KDCCAI purchased a former church with plans to develop supported accommodation to enable older residents to remain local rather than relocate to residential aged care elsewhere. KDCCAI has also partnered with University of the Sunshine Coast researchers to co-design and pilot a dementia caregiver support program as well as other initiatives.
"The 2026 Everald Compton Community Champion Medal has shown how many older people are making differences in the communities. While nominations were strong, it was Rosie who stood out for her work to improve the wellbeing of older residents, including those living with dementia, in her community of Kilkivan," NSA CEO Chris Grice said.
"Rosie has contributed countless volunteer hours, working hands-on while raising much-needed funds and advocating for older community members. She is described as determined, deeply committed, and a true champion for her community."
"We congratulate Rosie on receiving this well-deserved accolade and thank all nominees for the vast and varied ways they contribute to their communities."
NSA's Founder and medal inspiration, Everald Compton AO said, "Too often, older Australians get cast aside. But they're an asset and shouldn't be ignored. Rosie, and all nominees, are shining examples of the difference older Australians make to their communities through humble, selfless and inspirational work."
"Rosie embodies everything the medal represents including impact on the community, inclusivity and accessibility, leadership and inspiration, and dementia care and support."
In presenting the Everald Compton Community Champion Medal to Rosie, Everald said, "We can all vow to collectively help change negative attitudes about older Australians by acknowledging them as community builders who have the wisdom and ability to turn 'grey into gold' throughout Australia in the manner so ably demonstrated by Rosie."
Finalists for the 2026 medal included respected Elder Thomas Slockee - nominated for bringing about secure and affordable housing for Indigenous people; Jane McMillan OAM - nominated for helping to establish the Caboolture Branch (now known as Leukaemia Support Qld) and raising funds to support patients living with Leukaemia and their families; Sandra Slatter - nominated for her dedication to crisis recovery following major events such as the Marysville Black Saturday bushfires and providing support and connection for people living with dementia and their carers; and Robert (Bob) Shewring OAM - nominated for his dedication to several community organisations and his efforts to repatriate the bodies of the last remaining Australian soldiers killed during the Vietnam War buried overseas.
All finalists attended a ceremony and dinner at Brisbane's Convention and Exhibition Centre also attended by Federal Minister for Health and Ageing; Minister for Disability and the NDIS the Hon. Mark Butler MP (who delivered the keynote address) and Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann (who delivered the closing remarks). Federal Member for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie MP and Hon Paul de Jersey AC CVO KC presided as judges at the event proudly sponsored by Nucleus Network, RMBL, Watch Smoke Alarms and The Good Guys Commercial.
Image credit of Xavier Montaner
