A dual Victorian Australian of the Year finalist will be the guest speaker at the 2020 City of Ballarat Australia Day awards.
Rachel Cassidy was nominated for the award in 2005 and 2009 for her work in the not-for-profit sector, raising funds and delivering health and wellbeing programs for at risk youth, women and children.
She is also a Melbourne author whose latest book was released at the Parliament House members' chambers - the first time a book was launched at this historic venue.
She also worked with Nelson Mandela for several years, including his Australian World Reconciliation Day tour.
Ms Cassidy has written nine books and is a member of the Australian Society of Authors and the Melbourne Press Club. Her latest book has been nominated for the Victoria Premier's Literary awards.
The City of Ballarat Australia Day awards will be held on Friday 24 January in the Civic Hall from 5pm to 7pm.
During the ceremony, awards will be presented for Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Event of the Year.
The awards are open to the public and free to attend, with refreshments and nibbles to follow.
