Seventeen older Victorians have been recognised at the 2025 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
The awards ceremony took place at Government House on Wednesday 22 October 2025. Minister for Ageing, Ingrid Stitt MP and Robert Caulfield, President, Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria, joined the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, to present the awards.
The 2025 award recipients strengthen Victoria with their generosity, advocacy and commitment. They bring people together, create change and show how to live with purpose, at every age.
Their skills, time and energy make a difference through:
- hands-on support with transport, education and social connection
- music, mentoring and storytelling
- empowering multicultural communities.
Congratulations to all nominees and award recipients. Thank you for helping to make our state stronger.
Read some of their stories below or meet all the award recipients on the 2025 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards web page.
Meet some of this year’s award recipients
Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year
Patrick Templeton
Patrick is the co-founder of Operation Stitches. He makes a long-lasting impact on the lives of children and families across Melbourne’s public housing estates. Since turning 60, Patrick has volunteered over 30,000 hours with Operation Stitches.
Emerging Impact Award
Aunty Jo Russell
Aunty Jo Russell inspires her community to learn about Country with compassion and generosity. She is a respected Elder, proud Wiradyuri woman and Hume Enviro Champion.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards
Raissa Bolotnikova
For over 2 decades, Raissa has worked to empower and support fellow holocaust survivors in her community. Many people, in particular those who live alone, find solace in her support. Raissa’s acts of kindness brighten the days of everyone around her.
Promotion of Multiculturalism Award
Dilnaz Billimoria
For more than 20 years, Dilnaz has empowered older Victorians from all backgrounds to feel heard, welcomed and celebrated. She sees firsthand the barriers that culturally and linguistically diverse older people face. Dilnaz uses her insights to build community resilience and connections.
About the awards
For more than 30 years, the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards have celebrated older Victorians who contribute to the community through volunteering.
The awards ceremony in October is a highlight of the annual Victorian Seniors Festival. The month-long celebration features free and low-cost events for older Victorians.
Learn more about the awards on the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards web page.