The founder of Australia’s largest community fundraiser for breast cancer research has been named Gold Coast Australian of the Year for 2025.
Inspirational Gold Coaster Dr Robyn Cameron, who is a two-time breast cancer survivor herself, was among the four category winners honoured at the City’s annual Australian of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday night.
Paralympics swimmer Madeleine McTernan was named Young Australian of the Year, while retired firefighter and longtime cycling enthusiast Wayne Sticher, who founded Cycling Without Age, took out Senior Australian of the Year.
The Local Hero of the Year went to Ian Gray, a community leader and passionate volunteer who has been integral to the Disabled Surfers Association Gold Coast since it was founded in 2004.
PHOTO: Cally and Sarah Ward (representing Ian Gay who was not able to attend ), Dr. Robyn Cameron, Madeleine McTernan, Wayne Sticher.
“This year’s winners have each made remarkable contributions to the Gold Coast community with fundraising, advocacy, support and opportunities that have improved the lives of so many people,” Mayor Tom Tate said.
“Dr Cameron has done an incredible effort with her countless hours of volunteering and advocacy work as a National Breast Cancer Foundation ambassador as well as creating the charity’s largest community fundraiser.
“Madeleine is an incredible talent having represented Australia six times in para swimming and being a proud advocate for inclusion, making her an inspiration to us all.
“Wayne’s Cycling Without Age organisation is another inspiring story, providing opportunities for elderly people and those with disabilities to reconnect with nature and their community.
“Our Local Hero of the Year is yet another worthy recipient with his dedication towards inclusivity and an integral volunteer for the Disabled Surfers Association Gold Coast.
“I am honoured to call these individuals Gold Coasters and thank each and every one of them for the positive impacts they continue to have on our community,” Mayor Tate added.
The winners will now be nominated by the City for the National Australia Day Council’s Australian of the Year Awards.
