The Tilly Aston Community Awards are a recognition program that honours outstanding contributions and achievements within the Aston community. Named after Tilly Aston, a renowned advocate for social causes, these awards aim to celebrate individuals or groups that have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and positive impact in various aspects of community life.
There was barely an empty seat in the house as members of the Aston community packed out the Chinese Association of Victoria, on Saturday 30th August 2025 to recognise many of our communities’ local champions.
The second annual Tilly Aston Community Awards provided the opportunity for various groups and individuals within the electorate of Aston to be celebrated and commended on their outstanding work.
These awards are named after Tilly Aston, who was one of Australia’s most important and influential disability advocates. Tilly worked tirelessly to support and improve the lives of many people living with vision impairment, including through the establishment of a braille library.
The awards, therefore, recognise people in our community who embody and foster Tilly Aston’s spirit, her empathy, courage & persistence, and who inspire and lead every day.
Nights like this give me a tremendous opportunity to meet with people in a variety of community and serviced based awards categories, who had been nominated by those in the community who greatly appreciate their work.
Meeting these finalists who all come from such different walks of life and have such inspiring stories was amazing and really reinforced to me the strength and quality of people we have living amongst us in Aston.
To acknowledge their continued service, I presented finalists and winners with certificates as well as checks from Bendigo Community Bank - Wantirna, who proudly sponsored the event, to put towards future service in the community.
2025 Tilly Aston Community Award FINALISTS and WINNERS
Local Hospitality Champion – FINALISTS
This award will celebrate a local business that stands out as a trailblazer in the hospitality sector, contributing to the promotion of the Aston electorate as the preferred destination and offering an outstanding guest experience through warm and gracious hospitality.
- Cafe on the Park
- FOFA
- Breakfast Club - Knox InfoLink
2025 Local Hospitality Champion
Cafe on the Park
Café on the Park is redefining hospitality in Aston by combining exceptional guest experiences with meaningful social impact. As a registered social enterprise, it provides affordable food, training, and employment pathways for vulnerable learners, while fostering a welcoming, inclusive community hub. Through initiatives like the Community Pantry and sustainable practices, Café on the Park goes beyond hospitality to transform lives and strengthen the local community.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion – FINALISTS
This award celebrates local groups and organisations working to reduce the impact of mental health and/or improve the emotional and physical wellbeing of the local Aston community.
- TRK Care
- Rowville Men’s Shed
- Foothills Community Care Inc
- Hands Off Foundation
- Wantirna Jetbacks
- St Kilda Gatehouse - Young Women's Program
- Each
- Orana Neighbourhood House
Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion
Wantirna Jetbacks Basketball Club
Wantirna Jetbacks is a grassroots community club. In mid-2025, the club launched its JetBLACKS! campaign in partnership with headspace Knox, aimed at raising awareness and improving access to mental health resources. To demonstrate their commitment, all 75 Jetbacks teams played a full round wearing the BLACK side of their reversible uniforms. More than just a fundraiser, the campaign highlighted the club’s dedication to mental wellbeing — fostering a safe, inclusive environment, breaking down stigma, and showing young people that support is always close at hand.
Connecting Communities Champion - FINALISTS
This award honours local groups and organisations demonstrating outstanding commitment to fostering connections and unity within the Aston community. This award specifically celebrates those who have played a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and social cohesion.
- Knoxbrooke Support
- Glengollan Village
- Foothills Community Care Inc
- The Community Houses Association of the Outer-Eastern Suburbs - Living our best life project
- Boronia K-12 Students (Maria Clarkson, Grace Corrone, Laila Coyne, Boyd Hagley, Mitchell Knight, Justin Laurito, Tilli McKay, Mikayla North, Matthew Payne, Delaram Roostai.)
- CHAMPION Community Hub
- Coonara Community House
- Knox Masters Athletics
- Share Space Inc
2025 Connecting Communities Champion
Glengollan Village
Through a partnership with Mountain District Learning Centre (MDLC) Glengollan Village has been running Men’s Shed in our local community, providing a safe and welcoming space for men of all backgrounds. Through a partnership with Knox Council they have also recently launched the Intergenerational Playgroup initiative bringing together some of the youngest and oldest members of the community, bridging gaps and providing opportunities to combat social isolation.
Sporting Champion - FINALISTS
This award recognises a sports club or team that has demonstrated exceptional accomplishments, excellence in athletics performance and noteworthy contributions to the sporting community in Aston. The award celebrates the club's or team’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship, teamwork, and positive values, both on and off the field.
- Wantirna South Junior Football Club
- Maroondah Volleyball
- St Andrews (Ringwood) Cricket Club
2025 Sporting Champion
Wantirna South Junior Football Club
Over the past 12 months, Wantirna South Junior Football Club has continued to grow as a proud, community-driven club, creating more opportunities for children of all skill levels to participate in AFL. The club is now home to one of the largest junior female programs in the Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL), offering girls a strong, supportive pathway into the game and beyond.
With a deep commitment to inclusion, development, and community values, Wantirna South JFC has provided a safe, welcoming environment where every young player is encouraged to learn, play, and thrive. The club proudly supports all levels of participation—from first-time players to those aspiring to elite competition. They continuously work with education providers to provide educational programs to support players on and off-field personal development.
Leadership Award - FINALISTS
This award recognises an individual who has displayed exemplary leadership qualities and has made a significant impact within their sphere of influence. The award acknowledges outstanding vision, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire and guide others toward shared goals.
- Stephen Barrington
- Sophia Ambler
- Jacqueline Ring
- Mark Tyrrell
2025 Leadership Award
Mark Tyrrell
Mark Tyrrell has dedicated 15 years to volunteering at the oldest football club in the Aston Electorate. He has coached, managed junior teams and was the junior coordinator for 14 years, building the participation numbers from double figures to over 300. He has been a board member since 2011 and set the strategic direction of the club and was instrumental in achieving significant facilities upgrades that have benefitted the whole of Knox community. This included leading the team that got the installation of Knox's first all weather football pitch as well as upgrading the change room facilities to accommodate female members.
Mark exemplifies the spirit of the Tilly Aston Community Awards through his unwavering dedication to inclusivity, leadership, and community engagement in the Aston electorate. As Vice President of Knox City Football Club, Mark has been instrumental in fostering a welcoming environment that transcends the game of football.
Rising Star Award - FINALISTS
This award recognises an individual between the age of 16 and 30 who is early in their career but have already demonstrated exceptional promise, achievements, and a strong potential for future success. The award highlights outstanding contributions, dedication, and a noteworthy impact in their field or industry.
- Hayley Bauer
- Jack Taylor
- Erica Dunham
2025 Rising Star Award
Jack Taylor
Jack has demonstrated exceptional leadership at Wantirna South Junior Football Club and his commitment to coaching is evident in his meticulous planning of each session's activities and consistently arrives 30 minutes before the hour to organise the sessions. He also takes on the responsibility of coordinating parent helpers to assist with drills and manages the weekly presentation of awards, using a rostered system to ensure an even distribution among participants, which directly encourages their engagement in the program.
Currently, Jack is co-coaching these participants in the 4-week AFL U7 program this August 2025.
Jack's dedication and ongoing volunteer work are crucial to the success of our club's 2026 intake for the U8 program
Outstanding Young Achiever Award - FINALISTS
This award recognises an individual between the age of 8 and 16 with exceptional achievements in academics, sports, arts, community service, or any other notable areas. Criteria for consideration may include demonstrated creativity, resilience, leadership qualities, and a positive impact on peers and the community. The Outstanding Young Achiever Award aims to inspire and applaud the extraordinary potential and early accomplishments of children, acknowledging their unique talents and encouraging a sense of pride and motivation for continued excellence.
- Sophia Ambler
- Methuki Don
- Irina Junyi Zhang
- Samuel Cheung
- Amber Hellier
- Beth Oudshoorn
- Mikayla Hoey
- Aran Nota
- Lachlan Munro
- Annabelle Tay
2025 Outstanding Young Achiever Award
Annabelle Tay
Academically, Annabelle has excelled in English, earning an Excellence Award for her outstanding work. In Media, she produced and directed a short film titled “Not to Conform to the World,” which highlights her creativity and leadership. Her commitment to community service is also evident through her ongoing involvement at City Life Church where she helps with Sunday School. Annabelle’s artistic talents are showcased in her participation in two school music ensembles. Annabelle’s combination of leadership, service, mentorship, academic excellence, artistic talent, resilience, and faith-driven compassion makes her a deserving winner of this award.
2025 Outstanding Young Achiever Award
Aran Nota
Aran Nota strives to be a high achiever in all areas of his school life. He was recently accepted into the highly competitive Monash Scholars Program, which supports high-achieving students with leadership and academic development. He is also an active volunteer at the local Orana Community House and was part of the planning committee to organise the community open day event. Aran is also part of the TKS Flightdeck, the student-led podcast at The Knox School where he highlights issues that matter to students and the wider community. He has been making a meaningful impact in everything he does.
Volunteer of the Year Award - FINALISTS
This award honours an individual who has demonstrated exemplary commitment, dedication, and selfless service through volunteer efforts within a specific community or organisation. The award recognises the outstanding impact of the recipient's voluntary contributions, emphasising qualities such as reliability, enthusiasm, and a sustained commitment to making a positive difference.
- Heather Wall
- Pauline Michael
- John Woodward
- Aaron Craig
- Karli Pignolet
- Alan Singh
- Dorothy Bounds
- Irene Smith
- Jessica Paulo
- Laurren Kaye
- Madison Huckel
- John Jennings
- Shane Mayoh
- Tony Peng
2025 Volunteer of the Year
John Woodward
John Woodward has quietly and consistently shaped the Rowville-Lysterfield community for over two decades through his exceptional volunteer service with the Rowville-Lysterfield Community News (RLCN). A humble and reliable presence, John exemplifies the values of this award: commitment, enthusiasm, and a sustained dedication to improving the lives of others.
John Woodward is not just a volunteer; he is a community pillar. He meets every criterion of the Tilly Aston Volunteer of the Year Award with grace and humility.
Local Hero Award - FINALISTS
This category is designed to honour individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their local community, embodying the spirit of selflessness, compassion, and dedication. The award recognises those who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact, demonstrating acts of kindness, community service, and leadership. Criteria for consideration may include the scale of their contribution, the lasting effects on the community, and the ability to inspire others. The Local Hero Award aims to celebrate and showcase the unsung heroes within the community, acknowledging their invaluable efforts and highlighting the power of individuals to bring about positive change at the local level.
- Michelle Waldron
- Bryan Dye
- Helen Potton
- Ashley Jakowitz
2025 Local Hero Award
Bryan Dye
Bryan’s role in Share Space is vital to their day to day work. Bryan commits an additional 4 to 5 hours every day to volunteering. His work ethic and devotion are truly unmatched. Bryan takes full responsibility for assembling food packs, coordinating bread donations, managing inventory, and overseeing logistics all essential operations that keep our food relief program running smoothly and efficiently. For his remarkable contributions, leadership behind the scenes, and relentless drive to support others, he is a true local hero.
2025 Local Hero Award
Michelle Waldron
Michelle Waldron utilises her experience in logistics to timetable and co-ordinate material aid from inception of ideas to actual delivery of the products at the Hands Off Foundation. She co-ordinates the warehousing of care packs and support and ensures the prompt delivery of it to where it is most needed. Hands Off Foundation wouldn’t be where it is without Michelle’s ongoing support, making her a deserving local hero.
Carer of the Year Award - FINALISTS
This award is dedicated to recognising and celebrating an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication and compassion in providing care to others, whether it be within a professional capacity or as a dedicated family member. The award acknowledges the recipient's selfless commitment to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for those under their care. Criteria for consideration may include the level of empathy shown, the impact on the lives of those cared for, innovative caregiving approaches, and the ability to navigate challenges with resilience and grace.
- Amanda and Dean Collins
- Christine Williams
- Margaret Hawkes
2025 Carers of the Year Award
Amanda and Dean Collins
Amanda and Dean Collins have dedicated over 20 years supporting foster children to overcome challenges, trauma and barriers, ensuring wellbeing and quality of life for the countless children in their care. Their brilliant carer skills have been called in to action recently to support a three-year-old girl, Daisy, diagnosed with a severe and complex disability. Following Daisy’s diagnosis, the Collins’ strong advocacy and care has led them to make contact and form bonds with families around the world who have children with the same condition. Their mantra has been ‘knowledge is power’ as a result of which Amanda and Dean have been shining a light of hope for so many children.
Teacher of the Year Award - FINALISTS
This award honours an outstanding educator who has demonstrated exemplary dedication, innovation, and effectiveness in the field of education. The award recognises the recipient's exceptional teaching methods, positive impact on students, and contributions to the overall learning environment. Criteria for consideration may include teaching excellence, student engagement, mentorship, curriculum development, and community involvement.
- Seema
- Sarah McKenzie
- Emily Maynard
2025 Teacher of the Year Award
Sarah McKenzie
Sarah McKenzie is a driving force behind curriculum development at The Knox School Junior School, combining deep pedagogical knowledge with a grounded, practical approach. Her leadership in the lower primary years has been transformative, particularly through her implementation of explicit teaching models and literacy screeners, which have helped identify student needs early and shape targeted intervention strategies. In every sense, Sarah is an educator who uplifts the profession, and her impact will be felt for years to come.
Lifetime Achievement Award - FINALISTS
This prestigious category is reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary, sustained contributions over the course of their entire career or lifetime. The award honours a person who has exhibited unparalleled dedication, exceptional leadership, and significant impact in their chosen field or community. Criteria for consideration may include a long and distinguished career, notable achievements, positive influence on others, and a lasting legacy. The Lifetime Achievement Award serves as the highest form of recognition, celebrating the cumulative impact and enduring contributions of an individual who has dedicated their life to excellence, leaving an indelible mark on their profession, community, or society at large.
- Naomi Butler-Moore
- Stephen Barrington
- Gayle Dye
2025 Lifetime Achievement Award
Stephen Barrington
Stephen Barrington is a part of the story of Knox and a gem in the heart of our community. Throughout his life, he has shared kindness, connection, and hope with thousands of people, quietly transforming lives through his unwavering belief that everyone deserves to feel included and valued.
• Stephen has lived out his mission to seek out those who are isolated and despairing and welcome them to the table.
• In 2002, Stephen founded Foothills Community Care with a single act of hospitality: a Christmas lunch in Ferntree Gully for 80 people. That one event sparked a movement. Under Stephen’s leadership, Foothills has achieved:
• 22 years of free Christmas lunches for Knox residents
• 17 years of weekly Ferntree Gully community meals
• 10 years of weekly Upwey community meals
• 10 years of home-delivered meals across Aston through the Community Casserole Project
• 3 years of weekly meal nights at Mountain Gate
• More than 300,000 free meals served to locals in need He has created a lasting legacy of inclusion, empowerment, and belonging in Aston
My sincere thanks go out to Community Bank - Wantirna as well as the team at the Chinese Association of Victoria for generously sharing their venue and their continued support, without your contributions nights like these would not be possible. Also, a big thank you to Pat Kelly, for his wonderful work steering the ship as Master of Ceremonies.
I look forward to hosting this event again, and many others like it in the future.
2025 Timeline
Nominations for the award are open to anyone living in the Federal Electorate of Aston.
Self-nominations are most welcomed.
Award Ceremony – 30 August 2025, from 4-7pm.
Location: Chinese Association of Victoria. 8 Ashley Street, Wantirna, VIC 3152
Nominations open now until 10 August 2025
Finalists announced on 19 August 2025
Winners announced at Award Ceremony
