From mentoring future doctors to founding local clubs and community radio, Dr Patrick Kinsella has quietly shaped East Gippsland for more than 40 years. Recently, Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth met with Dr Kinsella to discuss his role as Australia Day Ambassador and the upcoming 2026 Australia Day Awards ceremony. The event will be held on Wednesday 21 January at 5.30 pm at the Lakes Entrance Surf Life Saving Club.
"Those that know Dr Kinsella, may not realise just how wide his impact is," Cr Ashworth said. "He has strengthened our region through healthcare, education, sport, media and the arts. His story shows that one person can create lasting change for an entire community."
Dr Kinsella joined Gippsland Lakes Complete Health in 1984, drawn to Lakes Entrance for its coastal lifestyle and the vision of an integrated Community Health Centre. Since then, he has guided generations of medical students, provided care at Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust, and contributed to initiatives that improve wellbeing across the region.
Beyond medicine, Dr Kinsella has been instrumental in shaping East Gippsland's cultural and recreational life. He was instrumental in the establishment of Radio East Gippsland (REG), hosted popular radio programs, and with his wife Wendy, established the Lakes Junior Soccer Club. He is also a founding member of the Nowa Nowa Men's Choir.
Mayor Ashworth said Dr Kinsella's contributions reflect the spirit of the Australia Day Awards.
Cr Ashworth encourages residents to attend the awards ceremony to hear Dr Kinsella's keynote, celebrate the award recipients and nominees, enjoy live entertainment, and a free barbecue.
"Come along and celebrate all that so many people quietly contribute to our community, regardless of age or status - just everyday people making East Gippsland an even better place to live."
