Warrnambool local recognised for Parkinson's support work

Warrnambool local Andrew Suggett OAM has been awarded the Victorian Senior of the Year award for his efforts in leading the local Parkinson’s Support Group since 2009.

Suggett was instrumental in creating an inclusive environment for people to discuss their experiences and be part of a support network with others in a similar situation through a broad range of groups and activities, This includes Painting with Parkinson’s, Exercise for Parkinson’s and ParkinSong — a fortnightly therapeutic singing group developed by music therapists and speech pathologists.

Eighteen other recipients were recognised for their community work by Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt and Governor of Victoria Professor Margaret Gardner AC, at a ceremony at Government House.

From 2011 to 2017, Suggett served on the Board of Parkinson’s Victoria (now Fight Parkinson’s), where he oversaw work to incorporate the latest research and treatment practices in regional Victoria. Despite his own battle with Parkinson’s, he also chairs the Warrnambool Combined Health Support Network, consisting of a range of groups that bring people together.

The awards provided a chance to celebrate senior Victorians who share their skills, experience, time and energy with the community. Other category award recipients include:

• Hanh Tran, who received the Promotion of Multiculturalism Award
• Douglas Sloan, who received the Healthy and Active Living Award
• Maxwell Primmer, who received the Ageing Well Award
• Dennis Clarke, who received the Veteran Community Award category.
   

Additionally, 14 Victorians received Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards.

For more than 25 years, the Victorian Seniors Festival has recognised the volunteer work and community contributions of older Victorians. The awards are presented annually each October as part of the Victorian Seniors Festival.

More information about the 2023 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards and profiles of award recipients can be found here.