We are thrilled to announce the recipients of three prestigious awards that celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals in our community. At the Citizen of the Year 2025 Awards, we honored an outstanding professional supporting domestic violence victims, a young innovator influencing policy change, and a community event raising cancer awareness. The Inspiring South Australian Women’s Award recognized three exceptional women: a leader in Aboriginal health and justice, a visionary artist and writer, and an internationally ranked tennis player advocating for autism awareness. Lastly, the Award for Leadership in Languages and Cultures 2025 celebrated young leaders promoting linguistic and cultural diversity, with high school students and individuals under 24 being acknowledged for their efforts in advancing multiculturalism and language learning.
Congratulations to all the award recipients for their extraordinary achievements and dedication to making our community a better place.
2025 Citizen of the Year Award
2025 Inspiring South Australian Women’s Award
South Australia’s Citizen of the Year Awards 2025 Honouring Community Champions
An outstanding professional founding programs for domestic violence victims and respectful relationships for youth; a young innovator committed to youth advocacy influencing state and international policy change; and a community fund-raising event raising awareness for cancer have all been acknowledged at tonight’s Citizen of the Year Awards held at Government House. Australia Day Council of South Australia Chief Executive Officer Jan Chorley said, “These individuals are selfless, resilient, and generous, enabling their communities to be strengthened by their tireless efforts. They are the unsung heroes in our community, reminding us of how good we can be when we’re at our best. I congratulate all Award recipients for their extraordinary contributions to our state.”
This year’s award recipients include:
Citizen of the Year - Christopher Mailley
Senior Constable Christopher Mailley has made a profound impact in the fight against domestic violence by founding the Upper Southeast Domestic Abuse Program. Through community donations and fundraising, the initiative provides emergency financial support for victims, offering services such as accommodation, transport, and relocation assistance. Christopher’s work extends to preventative measures, including a youth respectful relationship program, ensuring a safer future for his community.
(Naracoorte Lucindale Council)
Award for Active Citizenship – Mayor Neil Martinson
Neil retired 2 years ago after an impressive 38 years in local government, Mayor Neil Martinson has left an indelible mark on the Renmark Paringa community. From his leadership in local sports leagues to serving as a Justice of the Peace and organising the Renmark Christmas Pageant, Neil has steadfastly advocated for community wellbeing, always approaching challenges with fairness and compassion.
(Renmark Paringa Council)
Young Citizen of the Year – Layla Bovell
As a dedicated member of the South Australian Youth Forum (SAYF), Layla Bovell is committed to youth advocacy and policy change. She co-authored the 2023 SAYF Annual Report and worked on the 2024 SAYF Annual Report, influencing youth initiatives at state and global levels, including formulating recommendations that were later presented at the United Nations Summit of the Future. Layla is also a leader in period justice initiatives, working to break down menstruation stigma and ensure period equity for young people.
Community Event of the Year – Pink and Blue Swim/Walk/Run
Originally launched in 2013 as the Pink Swim, this annual event has evolved to support both breast and prostate cancer awareness. Managed entirely by volunteers at West Beach Surf Lifesaving Club, the event has grown to include a walk and run, engaging over 1,300 participants in 2024. Since its inception, it has raised more than $630,000 for cancer research and care.
(City of Charles Sturt)
Community Event of the Year – 2024 Blackwood Reconciliation Walk
Held during National Reconciliation Week, the Blackwood Reconciliation Walk is a vital event for fostering community reflection and action. The 2024 walk marked 100 years since the first removal of children to Colebrook Training Home, with attendees hearing from former residents and learning about ongoing reconciliation efforts. The event, supported by local schools, service clubs, and community groups, remains a powerful step toward truth-telling and healing.
(City of Mitcham)
Honorable mentions:
Award for Active Citizenship (Commendation)
Guiseppe Geracitano
(City of Charles Sturt)
Community Event of the Year (Commendation)
Yarn Bombing
(Berri Barmera Council)
Citizen of the Year Awards shine a light on the individuals and events that make South Australia a better place. Their dedication, leadership, and passion inspire us all to contribute meaningfully to our communities. The Awards are conducted by the Australia Day Council of South Australia in partnership with 68 local Councils with nominations open to all year-round, and with a specific campaign that closes in November.
The 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards is proudly supported through the following community support partners: Local Government Association of South Australia, SARAH Constructions, MGA Insurance Group, Community Bridging Services Inc, Flinders University and Community Business Bureau.
Champions of Justice, Education, and Wellbeing: South Australia’s 2025 Inspiring Women Announced
Three outstanding inspiring South Australian women were celebrated at the 2025 Inspiring South Australian Women’s Award held at Government House tonight. An Aboriginal health, justice, education and child protection professional leading the way in systemic reform; a visionary artist and writer publishing children’s books that promote empathy, kindness and resilience; and an internationally ranked tennis player sharing her autism story with other young people with intellectual disabilities are this year’s Award recipients.
Inspiring South Australia Women's Award - Recipient: April Lawrie
April Lawrie, a proud Aboriginal woman from the Mirning and Kokatha peoples, has dedicated her career to advocating for Aboriginal children and communities. With a degree in Social Work, she has led systemic reform in Aboriginal health, justice, education, and child protection for over 20 years. As the inaugural Commissioner for Aboriginal Children and Young People, April has championed land rights and government service reform. She co-founded the Tjindu Foundation to support Aboriginal youth in leadership and cultural resilience.
Emerging Leader Recipient: Hayley Frazer
At just 20, Hayley Frazer is an author and artist inspiring young minds through storytelling and advocacy. Despite living with dyslexia and dysgraphia, she published her first book at 15, fostering social literacy and inclusion. Her work is part of the SA Premier’s Reading Challenge. Pursuing a degree in Creative Arts at Flinders University, Hayley continues to champion inclusive education while preparing for her next book release, “The Magical Tram,” celebrating kindness and memory through storytelling.
Emerging Leader Recipient: Andriana Petrakis
A passionate tennis player, Andriana Petrakis has overcome challenges associated with autism to become an elite athlete and mentor. Representing Australia at the 2023 Virtus Global Games, she is ranked number one in Australia and fifth globally in her category. Now an assistant coach with Tennis SA, Andriana encourages young people with intellectual disabilities to engage in sports, build confidence, and develop skills. Her achievements have earned her multiple accolades, including Tennis SA’s Most Outstanding Athlete with a Disability award.
Honorable mentions:
Inspiring South Australia Women's Award - Commendation
Ella Stratton
Inspiring South Australia Women's Award - Commendation
Joanna Wells
The Inspiring South Australian Women’s Award recognises outstanding women who have made significant contributions to the community. The Award continues to celebrate the often-overlooked contributions of women who dedicate themselves to the betterment of society. Whether in community service, advocacy, education, health, or other sectors, their work is essential in shaping a more compassionate and resilient South Australia.
The Award is jointly coordinated by the Australia Day Council of South Australia and the Office for Women. The Award is provided by Katrine Hildyard MP, Minister for Women and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
The Power of Language:
Recognising Inspirational Cultural Advocates
The 2025 Awards for Leadership in Languages and Cultures honour individuals dedicated to fostering linguistic and cultural diversity. These awards, presented by the Multicultural Education and Languages Committee (MELC) in partnership with the Australia Day Council of South Australia, celebrate young leaders who advance multiculturalism and language learning. Category 1 acknowledges high school students promoting language study and intercultural understanding, while Category 2 recognises individuals under 24 advocating for a diverse Australia through community leadership.
Ms Marzila Osmani: Recipient Cat. 1
Marzila, a student at Thebarton Senior College, speaks Dari, Farsi, Turkish, and English. She actively contributes to the Afghan Culture Association and Adult Multicultural Education Services. Leading events like Refugee Week and Harmony Day, she fosters inclusivity. Through the Rotaract and Volunteering and Leadership Clubs, she bridges cultural gaps and shares her refugee experiences, promoting social cohesion.
Ms Sophia Zavlagkas: Recipient Cat. 2
Sophia moved from Greece to South Australia in 2019 and now advocates for cultural preservation. She promotes heritage through Greek-inspired design, radio, and social media. Her business, Mati Designs, and involvement in the Neolea group connect young Greek Australians to their traditions. She also participates in the Odyssey Festival and facilitates cultural discussions.
Honorable mentions:
Ms Seerat Bughio – Commendation Category 1
Ms Anja Tassios – Commendation Category 1
Ms Leah Kovacic – Commendation Category 2
These award recipients exemplify the power of language and cultural awareness in shaping an inclusive society. Their leadership, dedication, and passion for multiculturalism continue to inspire future generations, fostering understanding, unity, and a stronger, more diverse Australia.
This Award is provided by the Minister for Education, Training and Skills, The Honourable Blair Boyer MP, through the Multicultural Education and Languages Committee (MELC) and administered by the Australia Day Council of South Australia.
