Public safety advocates Brett and Belinda Beasley have been named the Gold Coast’s Australian of the Year for 2024.
The couple were among the four category winners honoured at the City’s annual Australian of the Year Awards ceremony which recognises exceptional Gold Coasters who have had outstanding contribution to the community.
“Each of these Gold Coasters are remarkable and have had an amazing impact on the Gold Coast through their help and support to our residents in their own unique way,” Mayor Tom Tate said.
“The selection panel had an incredibly tough task to reduce the scores of nominations to the shortlist of 16 finalists and then choose our four winners.”
The remarkable Gold Coasters who were recognised include:
- Jack Beasley Foundation founders Brett and Belinda Beasley, Gold Coast Australian of the Year
- Philanthropist Maureen Stevenson, Gold Coast Senior Australian of the Year
- Letters of Hope founder Abbie Williams, Gold Coast Young Australian of the Year
- Compassionate community member Mia Sims, Gold Coast Local Hero
“The Beasleys have worked through the tragic death of their 17-year-old son in 2019 and dedicated themselves to improving safety and teaching young people about the consequences of carrying a knife,” Mayor Tate said.
“Mrs Stevenson through her philanthropic endeavours has donated more than $6 million to various charities since 2010 including supporting “giving days” where she offers to match donations.
“Ms Williams helps combat the stigma of mental health and empowers those with mental illnesses by providing handwritten letters which provide words of support to help turn things around.
“Ms Sims quick thinking and action to drive to a nearby police station when she saw a young man on a bridge on the M1. Her actions allowed police to negotiate the man down from the bridge.
“I congratulate them and thank them for their tireless efforts.”
The winners will be nominated by the City for the National Australia Day Council’s Australian of the Year Awards.
The Gold Coast Australian of the Year Awards are supported by the Gold Coast Bulletin and Listnr.
