The Ballarat Seniors Awards have once again recognised the dedicated individuals whose volunteer efforts help enrich life across our city.
Hosted by the City of Ballarat, the awards celebrate older residents who generously contribute their time and energy to building a stronger, more connected Ballarat.
Winners were announced during a special ceremony at the Mercure Hotel and Convention Centre on Friday, marking a fitting finale to the highly successful Ballarat Seniors Festival. Held throughout October, the festival was a much-loved celebration of the city's vibrant senior population.
City of Ballarat Councillor Jim Rinaldi said the awards highlighted the invaluable contributions of older residents and the positive impact they continue to make.
"The awards celebrate people who quietly go above and beyond by volunteering their time, sharing their wisdom and supporting others," Cr Rinaldi said.
"The stories we've heard about the contributions these people have made are truly inspiring."
The Seniors Awards align with the Ageing Well in Ballarat Strategy 2024-2026 Action Plan.
The 2025 award winners were:
Senior of the Year Award: Jan Antosiewicz
Jan is a remarkable volunteer whose service across Ballarat spans almost five decades. Her leadership and compassion have touched countless lives through her work with the Australian Red Cross, Soroptimist International Ballarat, Ballarat Hospice Special Interest Group, Buninyong RSL Women's Auxiliary, and Buninyong Senior Citizens Club. Jan has held numerous executive roles across the groups with which she is involved.
In her 46 years with Red Cross, Jan has been Chairperson for more than a decade and earlier held the positions of Secretary and Treasurer. Over 30 years service with Ballarat Soroptimists has included two terms as President as well as Committee Chair, and Membership Officer. Jan is current President of both Buninyong RSL Women's Auxiliary and Buninyong Senior Citizens Club.
The skills and experience she brings to these positions is highly respected and valued by her peers. Across all these groups, Jan is also known for her tireless fundraising efforts, hosting fashion parades and garden parties, organising raffles and BBQs, and leading many other community activities and events.
Her initiatives have raised tens of thousands of dollars to support palliative care, veterans, women's education, and community wellbeing. Jan's dedication has helped prevent club closures, alleviate loneliness, and promote dignity and belonging among our older community members. She leads with warmth, generosity and unwavering commitment, with a legacy of service, leadership and heartfelt connection.
Community Service Award: Milad Nachar
Milad is a shining example of community spirit and generosity. His dedication to volunteering is evident through his involvement in almost all of the 18 programs at the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre. From collecting and sorting food, assisting with Friday community lunches, and nurturing the community garden, to maintaining vehicles, updating displays, and distributing newsletters, Milad does it all.
He is the first to be invited to represent the centre at tradeshows and information sessions, and he regularly supports other charities by delivering food, collecting donations, and helping with administration. When not at the centre, Milad volunteers with the Ballarat Foundation's Learner Driver Mentor Program, the Salvation Army's food pantry and kitchen, and Ballarat Community Health's food initiative.
Known for his reliability, honesty, and inspiring can-do attitude, Milad's commitment to making his community a better place is deeply appreciated by staff, volunteers, and all who have the pleasure of working alongside him.
Community Teamwork Award: Anam Cara
Anam Cara is a purpose-built medical service offering holistic care to individuals undergoing cancer treatment and other medical procedures. At the heart of this service are its dedicated volunteers, whose roles vary daily depending on the needs of medical staff.
Their most vital contribution is the compassionate support they provide to both patients and staff. Volunteers offer refreshments, prepare meals, and assist with light cleaning and stock supplies, all while creating a warm and welcoming environment. They help ease the anxiety many patients feel upon arrival, offering comfort, conversation and understanding to up to twenty people each day.
Balancing empathy with professionalism, they uphold strict standards of privacy and confidentiality. Their presence inspires not only patients and families, but also fellow volunteers and hospital staff. Through their commitment, kindness and lived experience, Anam Cara's volunteers embody the values of care, connection and community, making a lasting impact on all who walk through its doors.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Award: Helen Sarra
Helen is a tireless and passionate volunteer whose contribution to Ballarat's Italian community spans over four decades. As current President of the Italian Retired and Pensioners Club and an active member of the Ballarat Italian Association, Helen has played a vital role in organising events, outings, educational sessions and celebrations that bring people together.
Her efforts include securing grants, preparing meals, calling bingo, leading singalongs and coordinating participation in major community events such as the Begonia Festival, Harmony Fest and Refugee Week.
Helen also supports the Wendouree Senior Citizens Club, helping Italian members engage in its activities and outings. Beyond this, she is involved in the Heartbeat Ballarat Walking Group, the Vintage and Classic Car Club Ballarat and encourages community participation in multicultural programs.
Helen's dedication has greatly enriched the lives of many, fostering connection, wellbeing and pride among Ballarat's Italian community and the wider Ballarat community. Her energy and generosity continue to inspire all who know her.
Lifetime Achievement Award: John Olsen
John has dedicated more than 36 years to strengthening the Ballarat community through extensive volunteer work and leadership. A long-standing member of the Ballarat East Rotary Club for nearly four decades, including time as President, John has also contributed internationally to rebuilding projects in Timor Leste and Fiji.
Locally, he has served as a Board member of Uniting Care Ballarat and Chairperson of the Ballarat Central Uniting Church Congregation, overseeing vital services such as housing support, emergency relief, aged and disability care, and mental health programs.
John has been a driving force behind U3A Ballarat for over 20 years, helping grow its membership to over 1,300 and continuing to volunteer as a tutor. Since 2016, he has managed operations at the Ballarat North Community Centre, coordinating bookings for thousands of users and community groups monthly.
He also plays a key role in the Ballarat North Senior Citizens Club as a trusted advisor and long-serving treasurer. Known for his calm leadership and thoughtful approach, John inspires others through his quiet dedication and ability to bring people together. As a former school principal and committed lifelong volunteer, his life's work is one of service, inclusion and lasting community impact.
