Gold Coasters have been the big winners at the Queensland Australian of the Year Awards overnight.
The founder of the Men of Business (MOB) Academy, Marco Renai, took out the top honour – named Queensland’s Australian of the Year for 2024 at a special ceremony in Brisbane.
Mr Renai is credited for changing the lives of countless young men at risk and giving them hope for a better future through his academy, which provides leadership and mentoring programs.
Local couple Robyn and Lindsay Burch, the founders of not-for-profit charity Havafeed which provides hot meals and food parcels for those in need, were named Senior Australian of the Year.
Mr and Mrs Burch have dedicated their retirement years to their organisation, which has now fed more than one million people.
Olympic swimmer Emma McKeon, who also calls the Gold Coast home, was announced as Queensland’s Young Australian of the Year.
“The 2024 award recipients are inspiring, everyday Queenslanders from all walks of life who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to enrich and empower communities across Queensland,” Acting Premier Steven Miles said.
“The recipients have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to Queensland and Australia, and their tireless efforts and dedication to making positive change and improving the lives of others.
“Congratulations to the recipients and all of the nominees for their great work in our communities and for making a positive difference for Queenslanders.”
The Queensland recipients will now join those from the other states and territories for the national Australia Day awards, which will be held in Canberra on 25 January, the eve of Australia Day.
