A family devastated by the impact of cancer is giving back to the community by supporting the charitable work of City of Newcastle's Citizen of the Year, Peter Sleap.
Cameron and Michelle Turner received much-needed practical and financial assistance from the charity Mr Sleap created, Sleapy's Foundation, as their daughter Florence underwent a 13-month battle with paediatric brain cancer.
Following her passing, the couple created Flo's Day to celebrate her spirit and raise money for families in need, with part of the proceeds from this month's fundraiser going to the Foundation.
Peter and Robynn Sleap celebrate Peter's Citizen of the Year award from City of Newcastle in 2026.
Mr Sleap was named City of Newcastle's Citizen of the Year in 2026 for his work with Sleapy's Foundation.
Nominations are now open for the 2027 Citizen of the Year awards across four categories.
Mr Turner said the awards are a wonderful way of recognising those people who make Newcastle a better place.
"Sleapy's Foundation was there for us during some of our darkest moments. Their kindness and generosity helped ease some of the immense pressure our family was facing," Mr Turner said.
"Our way of saying thank you is by using Flo's Day to ensure Sleapy's Foundation can continue providing that same support to families facing childhood cancer in the future.
"I think the Citizen of the Year awards are another great way for our community to show their thanks for everyone who goes above and beyond to help others.
"People like Peter don't do what they do for awards or praise, but I am so glad someone made the effort to nominate him last year."
Since 2019, Mr Sleap's charity has delivered financial relief, meaningful experiences and practical programs for cancer victims and their families, with the majority of funds going directly back into the community.
Mr Sleap said it was an unexpected honour when he was named Citizen of the Year in 2026.
"After surviving stage four throat cancer I wanted to give back to the community and that's when I started Sleapy's Foundation," Mr Sleap said.
"There are people in the community that don't think they are doing extraordinary things, but they are.
"Someone took the time to nominate me and it reminded me that kindness matters.
"I wanted to share the award with everyone, from those who've donated or partnered with the Foundation, attended events or simply supported our work along the way.
"Their efforts show how amazing Newcastle is as a community and I want to encourage people to nominate another worthy recipient."
Lord Mayor Gavin Morris said these awards are about making Newcastle stronger, kinder and more connected.
"Every day across Newcastle, there are people quietly making a difference. They do it simply because they care," Cr Morris said.
"Imagine what your nomination could mean to someone who's been helping the community for years."
Nominations are open via City of Newcastle's website for the 2027 Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year and Community Group of the Year.
Nominations close on 20 November 2026, with recipients to be announced in early 2027.
