2025 City of Greater Bendigo Youth Award Winners

Creativity and Innovation

Zak Wescott - Winner ages 12-27

Zak Wescott is a creative young filmmaker whose stop motion animation project, developed through the 2025 Create Lab program, reflects thoughtful innovation and creative thinking. With support from a mentor and the Create Lab grant, Zak adapted his original idea for a full-length feature into a more achievable short film, showing flexibility and a practical approach to creative problem-solving. He built key elements to create a handmade spaceship and demonstrated careful attention to detail in object manipulation. Zak also made inventive use of lighting and fully handcrafted features to bring the story of an astronaut to life, showcasing his ability to think outside the box and elevate the visual storytelling experience. His film has been shared with young audiences, offering an inspiring example of what can be achieved through resourceful artistic practice from a young age. His openness, storytelling skills, and involvement in showcasing the film contribute to a broader appreciation of animation and encourage other young people to explore creative expression.

Liza Edwards- Winner ages 18-25

LJ was awarded the City of Greater Bendigo Youth Award for Creativity and Innovation in recognition of her exceptional ability to combine creative thinking with practical solutions that enhance the student experience at Bendigo TAFE. Her initiatives demonstrate both empathy and ingenuity, including developing pre-packaged food share bags to support students facing food insecurity, introducing a QR code system for discreet reporting of feminine hygiene supplies, and proposing staggered event start times to better accommodate neurodiverse students. Each idea reflects her capacity to think outside the box and deliver real-world solutions that make a meaningful impact.

As an active member of the Student Voice Group, LJ consistently provides thoughtful feedback that shapes student policies and initiatives. Her contributions to the Disability Action Plan have been particularly valuable, offering lived experience that informs more inclusive campus practices. LJ’s work goes beyond generating ideas—she follows through with action, consistently demonstrating creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of community needs. Her commitment to inclusive design and problem-solving makes her a true leader in creating positive change.

Contribution to Community

Phannika Finnerty - Winner ages 12-27

Phannika Finnerty exemplifies what it means to give selflessly and create positive change. Through more than 500 hours of volunteer service with Reflections at Eppalock, she has become a driving force for inclusion and understanding in our community. Her advocacy work bridges the gap between autism and dementia, raising awareness through heartfelt speeches and practical insights that have shaped dementia-friendly programs. Her contributions go far beyond hours logged; they are measured in the difference she makes to those around her. Whether planting gardens, helping at events, or sharing her story, Phannika’s presence lifts others. She is known for her caring nature, willingness to attempt anything, and determination to succeed—qualities that have earned her admiration and respect from volunteers, carers, and community members alike.

Another important way Phannika has contributed is through her role in promoting inclusion. She demonstrates daily that young people with autism have unique strengths to offer their communities. By openly sharing her challenges and triumphs, she has created a ripple effect of understanding, showing others that neurodiversity is not a barrier to leadership but an asset that brings fresh insight and empathy. Further contributing to community, Phannika additionally mentors and encourages other young people to volunteer, showing them that everyone has something valuable to offer. In recognition of her outstanding contribution to dementia awareness and support, Phannika was honoured with the Dementia Alliance “Shining Star Award”, a testament to her impact and dedication. She is not only a role model for young people with autism but for all youth who aspire to make a difference. 

Willion - Winner ages 18-25

Willion is a remarkable young leader whose actions exemplify excellence in leadership. Since arriving in Australia just one year ago on a humanitarian visa, he has shown extraordinary resilience, initiative, and compassion. Despite facing the challenges of settling into a new country alone and with limited English, Willion has quickly become a trusted and inspiring figure in his community. At Kangaroo Flat Karen Baptist Church, he leads the choir, mentors young adults, and fosters a welcoming environment that helps others feel supported and empowered. His leadership is grounded in empathy and quiet strength, lifting others up and helping them build confidence and connection.
 

In addition to his church involvement, Willion volunteers with Bendigo Community Health Services in their Culturally Sensitive Counselling program, which supports mental health for people from refugee backgrounds. Using his video editing and design skills, he creates culturally relevant resources—such as videos and brochures in different languages—that help the program reach more people effectively. His creativity and willingness to learn new tools have strengthened the program’s connection with diverse communities. Willion also helps facilitate job readiness and music groups and regularly supports newly arrived young people through informal mentoring. His ability to coordinate, guide, and inspire others toward shared goals—while always leading with kindness and humility—makes him a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Excellance in leadership 

Noah Hadden - Winner ages 12-17

Noah exemplifies outstanding leadership through his tireless commitment to sport, culture, and community. Every week, he dedicates countless hours to volunteering—coaching an All-Abilities basketball team for people with disabilities, supporting Braves holiday programs, and mentoring multiple junior basketball teams, two of which won grand finals last season. His leadership extends beyond the court as a boundary umpire in football, a cricket player, and an active participant in cultural programs. Noah is a proud Aboriginal leader who consistently creates inclusive spaces, mentors’ peers, and advocates for cultural pride at Bendigo Senior Secondary College through the Indigenous Advisory Group. 

Beyond sport, Noah plays a vital role in cultural leadership. As a longstanding member of the Korin Gamadji Institute Leadership Group and the Bendigo Senior Secondary College Indigenous Advisor Group, he mentors peers, promotes Indigenous student voice, and contributes to cultural initiatives. He consistently creates a welcoming cultural space for other students at BSSC, encouraging participation and pride in identity. His presence, reliability, and willingness to speak up make him a role model who lifts others up and works collaboratively toward shared goals.

Laura Power - Winner ages 18-25

Laura Power has been awarded the Youth Award for Excellence in Leadership for her outstanding contributions to the South Bendigo Football Netball Club and her broader community. Through her initiative, creativity, and reliability, Laura has transformed the club’s communications, events, and fundraising efforts. She has taken full ownership of the club’s social media platforms, producing professional and engaging content that has significantly boosted community pride and interaction. Her leadership in organising the annual club ball—growing it into a sold-out event for 200 guests—and introducing innovative fundraising strategies like the electronic spinning wheel raffle, which raised over $10,000, demonstrates her ability to coordinate teams and deliver successful outcomes.

Laura’s leadership extends beyond logistics. She has redefined sponsor engagement, strengthened relationships through personal touches, and continued to lead even while recovering from a serious knee injury. Her resilience, humility, and commitment to service make her a role model for others. Balancing physiotherapy studies, part-time work, and extensive volunteer roles, Laura consistently lifts others up, inspires younger players, and sets a high standard for community involvement.

Sustainability and Environment

Ari Bursac - Winner ages 12-17

Ari is an inspiring young leader who champions sustainability through both advocacy and action. As Environmental Leader at Bendigo Senior Secondary College, he has driven initiatives that promote sustainable practices, including producing a school-wide campaign video for Walk to School Day. His commitment extends beyond school projects—Ari actively plants native trees, grows his own produce, and models environmentally conscious habits in his daily life. These efforts reflect his dedication to creating a greener future and encouraging others to adopt sustainable practices.

Alongside his environmental work, Ari demonstrates exceptional leadership and balance across multiple commitments. He is a high-achieving student, named dux of Digital Technologies at Bendigo Southeast College and aspires to attend university next year to study Computer Science and IT, driven by a passion to apply technology to environmental and human health outcomes. Ari’s ability to combine academic excellence with practical environmental action makes him a powerful advocate for sustainability and a role model for his peers.

Ava Parker - Winner ages 18-25

Ava has made an extraordinary impact on Bendigo’s environmental future through her leadership in sustainability and climate action. 

At just 20, she served as Operations Director for the 2025 Bendigo Sustainability Festival, coordinating logistics, compliance, and a team of young volunteers. Ava helped deliver an event for over 3,000 attendees that celebrated local innovation and environmental stewardship and empowered young people to take active roles in shaping a greener future. Now co-Director of the festival, she leads with integrity - mentoring peers, bridging generational gaps, and amplifying young voices in environmental decision-making.

Ava has also championed youth engagement in climate initiatives by speaking at schools and community forums, driving local environmental campaigns and supporting the Bendigo Sustainability Group (BSG) in an administrative capacity. Ava’s consistent volunteerism, strategic project work, and ability to inspire others reflect her deep commitment to ecological resilience and Bendigo’s transition to sustainability, overall making her a well-deserving recipient for this award. 

Inclusion and Equity

Terri Flaherty - Winner ages 18-25

Terri is a proud young First Nations woman whose leadership makes our community more inclusive, equitable, and culturally connected. She stands up for those who are often excluded or face barriers by creating spaces where young people feel seen, valued, and supported. Terri shares her story openly, helping others embrace their identities and fostering belonging through empathy and action. Her ability to notice when someone needs support—whether through a conversation, a listening ear, or guidance—makes her a trusted role model among her peers.

A creative force, Terri uses painting, filmmaking, and theatre to amplify First Nations voices and spark conversations about wellbeing, identity, and culture. Her artistic achievements include winning the Yo-Bendigo Youth Flick Fest 2025 and painting a community mural that celebrates cultural pride and inclusion. Beyond art, Terri advocates for equity in education as a member of the Indigenous Advisory Group at Bendigo Senior Secondary College and supports young women through Weenthunga Health Network’s nyarrn-gagko mangkie Spaces, guided by values of Respect, Reciprocity, Relationships, and Responsibility.

Through her creativity, advocacy, and instinctive care for others, Terri exemplifies what the Equity and Inclusion Award represents—breaking down barriers, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building a community where everyone feels connected. She is not only shaping change; she is leading it today.

Teamwork and Collaboration

headspace Youth Ambassadors

The headspace Bendigo Youth Ambassador group has earned the Youth Award for Teamwork and Collaboration through their outstanding commitment to making our community more inclusive, accessible, and equitable for young people. This passionate team of 11 volunteers, aged 15–25, has worked together to ensure youth voices are central to service design, governance, and delivery. Over the past year, they’ve participated in more than 50 events, contributed to annual service reviews, and provided feedback that led to meaningful changes in the centre such as dimmer switches in clinical rooms, inclusive waiting areas, and sustainability initiatives like recycling and composting. They’ve also maintained the headspace garden, donating fresh produce to local youth through BCHS and FoodShare, and completed Youth Mental Health First Aid training to strengthen their support for peers.

What sets this group apart is their culture of respect, inclusion, and shared leadership. They collaborate effectively, even running meetings independently when needed, and ensure every voice is heard—especially those who might otherwise feel excluded. Their initiatives, from contributing to annual service reviews and governance panels to launching a youth-friendly newsletter and creating updated centre videos, demonstrate their dedication to accessibility and equity. By standing up for young people and breaking down barriers, the Youth Ambassadors have proven that when young people work together, they can create real, lasting change for their peers and the wider community.

2024 City of Greater Bendigo Youth Award Winners
 

Creativity and Innovation

Eli Asta (Wolf) 
- Winner 12-17 years

Eli has been chosen to win the Creativity and Innovation Award for their contributions to the community through music. Their dedication to supporting classmates and volunteering in music-based community youth events demonstrates their commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive environment. Eli’s support through these events not only helps to showcase local talent but also brings young people together, creating a strong sense of community through promoting creativity and collaboration.

Chloe Elizabeth Karen Lovell 
- Winner 18-25 years

Chloe Elizabeth Karen Lovell is an outstanding nominee for the Creativity and Innovation Award, recognized for her exceptional contributions as Co-Director of the 2024 production of Cinderella at Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre. Chloe dedicated over 500 hours to mentoring 56 young performers, nurturing their talents while fostering a culture of social inclusion. Her leadership creates a safe and empowering environment where vulnerable youth can build self-esteem and confidence through the arts. Having once been a participant herself, Chloe deeply understands the transformative power of the program. She often says, "I love what I do. It is such a privilege to make a difference." Her work demonstrates the profound impact of artistic practice in driving positive change within the community

Contribution to Community
 

Excellence in leadership

Pollyanna Smith - Winner 18-25 years

Pollyanna is a truly deserving recipient of the Excellence in Leadership award, celebrated for her exceptional dedication and leadership across multiple community roles. With over 10 years of involvement in Girl Guides Bendigo, Pollyanna has progressed from a guide helper at age 13 to a qualified unit leader, running weekly meetings for girls aged 5-9 while creating a supportive, inclusive environment. Her leadership extends beyond her local unit; she has contributed valuable insights to Girl Guides Victoria's Reconciliation Action Plan and serves on the state volunteer inclusion and diversity team. In 2022, Pollyanna became the first in her district to earn the prestigious Queen's Guide award, setting a remarkable example for younger guides. Additionally, Pollyanna shares her enthusiasm and mentorship as a coach at Bendigo’s Cheer and Dance, where she helps young dancers and cheerleaders grow with encouragement and care. She also volunteers with the Lord Somers camp program, assisting with staff at camps, and has previously volunteered with Yo Bendigo, further demonstrating her commitment to youth and community development. Pollyanna’s passion for volunteering and leadership across such diverse roles makes her an inspiring figure and a deserving recipient of the Excellence in Leadership Award.

Sustainability and Environment

Grace Doherty - Winner 18-25 years

Grace has won the award for Sustainability and Environment due to her exceptional dedication to fostering a sustainable future within her community. At such a young age, she has demonstrated remarkable leadership, volunteering countless hours as the Festival Director for the Bendigo Sustainability Festival, which is set to engage over 3,000 attendees in 2025. Grace has taken on the substantial responsibility of coordinating the festival's creative program, working closely with local schools and youth groups to ensure that activities not only promote sustainability but also resonate with young people.

Through her advocacy, leadership, and hands-on involvement, Grace has set a shining example of what it means to be a steward of the environment. Her efforts not only promote sustainability but also empower her peers to join her in creating a positive impact, making her a deserving recipient of this award.

Inclusion and Equity

Eh Thout Kya - Winner 18-25 years

Eh Thout is a deserving recipient of the Inclusion and Equity Award for her unwavering commitment to making the Bendigo community more accessible, inclusive, and equitable. As the Youth Project Officer at Bendigo Foodshare, she has led initiatives that promote food security and actively engage over 450 young people, helping them overcome barriers through programs like Cooking for Change! and Café for a Day.

Her dedication to inclusion extends beyond her work at Foodshare, as she also plays a pivotal role in the Karen Organisation of Bendigo and the Bendigo Karen Advisory Committee. Through these platforms, she has created opportunities for the integration of Karen refugees, breaking down the social and cultural barriers they face. This includes organizing gardening workshops on growing cultural foods and coordinating community events like the Karen wrist-tying ceremony and New Year celebrations. Eh Thout’s tireless efforts to advocate for and include those who are often excluded or face significant barriers are a true testament to her commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable community.

Teamwork and Collaboration

The Bendigo Karen Youth Network - Winner

The Bendigo Karen Youth Network (BKYN) deserves the Teamwork and Collaboration award for their impactful Refuge Week initiative in 2024. Partnering with Bendigo TAFE and Bendigo Community Health Services, they organized a pioneering event that raised awareness of the refugee experience and fostered community compassion.

A visual art competition allowed refugees to share their stories, while social media engagement attracted thousands. With over 200 attendees on June 18th, BKYN created a welcoming space for dialogue and connection. Their ongoing volunteer work and advocacy inspire community involvement, showcasing the power of collaboration for meaningful social impact in Bendigo.