Mornington Peninsula Shire celebrates record number of youth nominees at this year's Youth Recognition Awards!
The 2025 Mornington Peninsula Youth Recognition Awards were held on Friday 30 May at the Peninsula Community Theatre, celebrating the inspiring contributions of young people across the region.
The annual event, hosted by the Shire's Youth Services team and the Mornington Peninsula Youth Advisory Committee (YAC), drew a crowd of almost 200 guests, including family, friends, local leaders and community members.
Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro presented awards to each winner across seven categories, recognising Unsung Heroes, Kind Hearts, Inclusivity Agents, and contributions in leadership, the environment, community service, and the arts.
The call for nominations went across the community two months ahead of the event, with friends, teachers, peers and organisations nominating 70 young people for recognition.
Meet the 2025 Youth Recognition Award winners
Community Contributor – Bella Potter
Bella has faced learning challenges due to her vision impairment and autism. She now works as a Prep Teacher's Aide at Peninsula Specialist School, where she was once a student. Bella is also studying and volunteers to help children with special needs. She shows what it means to keep going and give back.
Environmental Warrior – Loqlan Hartwig
Loqlan cares deeply about nature. He spends time diving and bushwalking, cleaning up the environment as he goes. His actions encourage others to look after the land and sea.
Inclusivity Agent – Julia Sides
Julia helped younger Scouts as a Venturer Service Leader at the Australian Scout Jamboree, guiding them through tough conditions. She showed patience, kindness, and strength when it was needed most.
Kind Heart – Rhiannon Zanker
Rhiannon has been helping care for her sister, who has a rare illness, since she was four years old. She also helps animals and people in need, even while managing her own health. Her kindness makes a big difference.
The Arts – Flynn Jones
Flynn is a talented student in design and technology. He learns new skills quickly, including sewing, and supports others in class. He leads by example with calm and quiet confidence.
Unsung Hero – Emmerson Annable
Emmerson took part in a tough fundraising trip across Bass Strait by kayak. When her kayak flipped in rough water, she stayed calm until help came. Her bravery and focus were impressive.
Unsung Hero – Willow Fletcher
Willow became the youngest person to kayak across the Bass Strait—330 km over 14 days. She raised money for the Variety Club and showed great strength and determination.
Young Leader – Thomas McInnes
Thomas is a strong leader at school and in the community. He helps with the Vinnies Winter Appeal, leads ANZAC Day events, volunteers with St John Ambulance, and supports the Sorrento Portsea RSL.
The awards also highlighted the power of youth-led community partnerships. Frankston Youth Services' Nex Gen Leadership Group worked with Mornington Peninsula YAC to score nominations and select winners – an approach that ensured impartiality and fostered collaboration between the neighbouring regions.
The event featured a live performance from young local musician Corey Hoogendoorn, who is involved with the Shire's Amplify program. Catering was provided by inclusive local business Happiness First.
The Mornington Peninsula Youth Advisory Committee played a key role in planning and running the event, from hosting to presenting awards. Young people interested in joining the YAC can register their interest here.
Council's commitment to recognising the contributions of young people and celebrating inclusion is highlighted in the We All Belong Strategy
Quotes attributable to Mayor Councillor Anthony Marsh:
"Young people across the Peninsula are making a huge impact in their communities.
"These awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the varied community contributions and leadership demonstrated by our amazing young people."
