A man credited for changing the lives of countless young men at-risk and giving them hope for a better future has been named the 2023 Gold Coast Australian of the Year.
Marco Renai, the founder and CEO of the Men of Business (MOB) Academy, was presented with the top honour at a special ceremony hosted by 1029 Hot Tomato’s Moyra Major at the Q1’s Skypoint overnight.
MOB provides an alternate senior secondary school empowering young men with the “skills, knowledge and confidence” to be happy, healthy and successful in life.
It started with just six boys 10 years ago and has since grown exponentially with over 200 young men completing the program in 2023 alone.
GC Australian of the Year winner Marco Renai, Men of Business
Acting Mayor Donna Gates presented Marco with the prestigious award, describing him as an “inspiration” for his work in giving young men the support they need to choose the right path in life.
“Marco is inspiring young Gold Coast men to build their confidence in a supportive environment and make these boys realise they belong somewhere,” she said.
“Thank you, Marco, for your tireless contributions to our community, particularly our future generation of young men.”
Olympic swimmer Emma McKeon was announced as the City’s Young Australian of the Year.
While 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 Gold Coast Senior Australian of the Year.
Founder and president of My Community Legal, Ross Lee, took out the Gold Coast Local Hero award.
Ross and his team of 90 volunteers have provided free legal advice to over 10,000 vulnerable Gold Coasters, including domestic violence victims and the homeless, since 2004.
“Our other award recipients are also outstanding individuals who dedicate their lives to helping some of the most vulnerable in our community,” Acting Mayor Gates said.
“We are proud to recognise you all for your incredible service to our community and helping to make the Gold Coast a better place.”
