SOUTH AUSTRALIA
South Australian Community Achievement Awards
2024 Winners
Carers SA Young Carer Award
Eliza Durdin of Northgate embodies resilience and dedication to making a difference. Eliza has been her mother’s primary Carer since 14, providing psychosocial and practical support for her mental health challenges. While managing household responsibilities, she excelled academically. Eliza studies social work (graduating in December 2024). Motivated by her experiences, she has volunteered extensively, including with Carers SA advisory groups and Anglicare’s emergency relief program. As a Carer Champion, she advocates for Young Carers by raising awareness and contributing valuable insights to service delivery and educational programs. Eliza’s leadership and advocacy extend to paid roles, where she promotes understanding of Young Carers’ needs within schools.
Carers SA Carer Achievement Award
Cassie Day of Christies Beach embodies resilience and determination. Cassie has devoted 23 years to caring for her son, Matthew, who lives with Cystic Fibrosis, Autism, and has an Acquired Brain Injury. Her relentless advocacy led to Matthew becoming the first paediatric patient in SA to access groundbreaking treatments, significantly improving his quality of life and others with CF. Beyond caregiving, Cassie founded The Carers Place, a business supporting families to navigate the complex world of disability. She created a thriving peer-support community, wellness programs, flexible employment opportunities for carers and developed an NDIS Provider Network in SA. Cassie's impact has influenced community and government alike.
Konica Minolta Customer Service Award
Chooks Little Winery Tours of McLaren Vale is dedicated to delivering exceptional guest experiences while promoting local businesses. Established in 2010 by Terry "Chook" McCoy and Kerry Mortimer, the company provides tailored wine tours that celebrate the unique charm of McLaren Vale. Chook has cultivated strong relationships with local wineries and supported community initiatives, raising significant funds for causes such as bushfire recovery and cancer research. The tours are lauded for their personalised approach, as no two are the same, earning glowing reviews and repeat customers. Inducted into the McLaren Vale Business & Tourism Hall of Fame, they continue to foster a profound appreciation of the region’s wine and culture.
Rural Doctors Workforce Agency Rural Community Health and Wellbeing Award
Social Group Tatiara of Bordertown focuses on social inclusion to improve mental health. In partnership with a local social worker, youth leaders co-developed creative projects such as movie nights, art initiatives, and music events. Through these initiatives, including a community meal project and employment connections, Social Group has broken down barriers of stigma in their conservative town. The group’s activities, attended by 15-25 members weekly, have empowered young people to become community leaders, improve their skills, and contribute meaningfully to their community. The initiative has helped youth from disadvantaged backgrounds, including migrants and LGBTQIA+ individuals, find their place and be represented, transforming their social and employment prospects.
SkyCity Adelaide Community Group Award
Port Adelaide District Baseball Club of Semaphore is dedicated to offering a welcoming environment that strengthens community bonds through sport. Since 1930, Port Adelaide District Baseball Club has been offering baseball programs for all ages and abilities. Notable initiatives include a free T-ball program for children aged 4-8, the Miracle League, which provides inclusive baseball opportunities, and an annual Indigenous Round to promote cultural awareness. With a focus on inclusion, affordability, and community engagement, the club has gained strong support from local volunteers, businesses, and grants. The club's vision is to continue expanding its programs, particularly in female participation and to grow its Miracle League program.
Awards Australia Foundation Local Legend Award
Dawn Likouresis of Port Augusta is a Adnamathynha, Arrabunna, Antakirinja Senior Elder. Dawn’s work uplifts homeless children, young parents, and struggling families in Port Augusta. As founder of Marnbi Corporation, she champions education, health, and the arts, providing practical support and strengthening cultural pride among Aboriginal communities. Dawn has dedicated countless hours to organising sports carnivals, mentoring youth, and offering her home as a safe space. Utilising creative activities, Dawn helps individuals heal and grow, while her leadership in Connected Beginnings strengthens cultural identity for Aboriginal families. Her team’s back-to-back victories in the Aboriginal State Football and Netball Carnival highlight her commitment to youth development.
Awards Australia Small Business Award
Vegan Festival Adelaide is boosting Adelaide’s economy and inspiring broader awareness of ethical lifestyles. Since its inception in 2007, Vegan Festival Adelaide has flourished, and under Lea McBride's dedicated leadership since 2015, it has grown to attract over 15,000 attendees annually making it a centrepiece for plant-based living in South Australia. The festival features over 60 stalls, cooking demonstrations, and educational workshops, promoting health, animal rights, and environmental care. Lea’s innovative initiatives, such as Vegan Palooza and the Vegustation Series, have gained national recognition. Her efforts have fostered a strong community network, encouraged sustainable practices like zero-waste targets, and created unique events such as Australia’s first Vegan Film Festival.
