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A man who is changing the lives of Indigenous kids through an AFL program has been named Cairns Citizen of the Year at a local Australia Day awards ceremony.
Rick Hanlon turned his passion for Aussie Rules into an avenue for helping the prospects of Indigenous youth through the creation of AFL Cape York House.
The initiative is about much more than AFL, focusing on education, health and civic well-being for young people from Cape York, the Torres Strait and the Gulf of Carpentaria, who attend boy’s and girl’s boarding houses in Cairns.
Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said Mr Hanlon has tapped into the popularity of Aussie Rules to provide even greater opportunities for kids from remote Far North Queensland.
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“Rick has played an important role in improving the lives of countless Indigenous children, as well as their communities,” Cr Manning said.
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“While kicking a football is part of the experience, just as important, these facilities provide an environment with a focus on education, health and well-being.
“These are the foundations that encourage young people to get an education and then possibly go on to university, get a trade, or find a job.
“Some of those children will even go back home and make a positive contribution to their communities.”
The tribute follows another national Australia Day honour for Hanlon in 2017.
Young Citizen of the Year went to Kristen O’Shea, for her efforts to foster inclusivity for students with disability.
While completing her final year at Gordonvale State High School, Ms O’Shea worked with one of Education Queensland’s regional physiotherapists to plan, implement and run an inclusive, student-led exercise program.
“Kristen is a shining example of a young person who identified a need – in this case to ensure all students were included in sporting activities – and found a solution,” Cr Manning said.
“She adapted and organised sports such as basketball, netball, volleyball and track and field to suit students with all abilities and create a fun, safe and supportive learning environment for everyone.”
Ms O’Shea’s efforts also led to being named a National Change-Maker by the 2021 National Australian Olympic Change-Maker program.
In recognition of more than 30 years of social housing advocacy, Fred Morris was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 1991, Mr Morris and a dedicated group of public housing tenants established the Far North Queensland Regional Tenants Advisory Group.
He was president of the organisation until last year, when he retired.
“For the past 30 years Fred has given a voice to some of the city’s most vulnerable and marginalised residents,” Cr Manning said.
“His advocacy for improvements for social housing recipients has led to significant change in service delivery and housing standards.”
Main points
- AFL Cape York House's Rick Hanlon named Cairns Citizen of the Year
- Disability inclusivity advocate Kristen O’Shea awarded Young Citizen of the Year
- Fred Morris, who set up and ran a tenant's advocacy group for 30 years, received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
