Sixteen older Victorians have been recognised at the 2026 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Minister for Seniors, the Hon. Nick Staikos MP, and President, Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria, Robert Caulfield, joined the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, to present the awards.
The 2026 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.
The award recipients are mentors and community builders. They share their skills, time and energy to make a difference through actions such as:
- hands-on support with nutrition and social connection
- navigating emergencies, language barriers and healthcare systems
- empowering others to give back and build better futures for all.
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 2026 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards web page.
Meet some of this year’s award recipients
Positive Ageing Award
Sandra Verdam
Sandra founded Memory Care Cafés. They are a support network for carers and people living with dementia. While volunteers run activities, carers spend time connecting with others who understand. Her advocacy strengthens pathways between the community and health systems. Sandra fosters a culture where people can feel respected and less alone.
Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards
Aunty Claudette Lovett
Aunty Claudette is a proud Gunditjmara Elder. Her leadership and cultural guidance build understanding, inclusion and reconciliation across the region. She provides consultation on major council projects. At her local health service, she helps patients feel heard, respected and culturally safe. Aunty Claudette shows older people are vital in shaping vibrant, resilient communities.
Raymundo Rosales
Giving to others is the norm in Raymundo’s life. He leads by example, inspiring others to live life to its fullest. Raymundo (Ray) has worked to keep the community safe for over 2 decades at the Country Fire Authority (CFA). Through the St Vincent de Paul Society, Ray supports refugees, asylum seekers and victim survivors of domestic violence. Ray knows that even when someone’s abilities change, they still have the skills to make the world a better place.
Emerging Impact Award
Mahendrakumar Patel
Mahendrakumar joined the United Seniors Club in 2022 as secretary. He has made a remarkable difference for older migrants and the multicultural community. Mahendrakumar breaks down language barriers, creating independence and access to healthcare information. His flagship ‘Cooking together’ program has provided over 10,000 free meals for older migrants.
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.