Gold Coast citizen of the year revealed at Australia Day awards

A scientist, an archer and an environmentalist were among the many Gold Coasters who claimed top honours at this year’s Gold Coast city Australia Day Awards.

A SCIENTIST who has a led a team to develop a drug to tackle one of the world’s deadliest diseases has taken out top honours at the city’s annual Australia Day awards.

Professor Mark von Itzstein, who is director and research head at the Griffith University Institute for Glycomics, has been named Gold Coast Citizen of the Year.

He is joined by a diverse group including an archer for awards, which recognise inspirational citizens for excellence in community service, sporting, environmental and cultural endeavours.

The Institute for Glycomics at Southport has become one of the nation’s flagship multidisciplinary biomedical research institutes, providing the Gold Coast with international recognition and raising the city’s profile as a leader in education and research in the field of Glycomics.

BANNED GOLD COAST CAR DEALER BACK AT IT AGAIN

Institute for Glycomics at Griffith Uni is breaking new ground in vaccines .Professor Mark von Itzstein . Picture Mike Batterham

In December the institute signed a multimillion-dollar deal, partnering with Hong Kong medical giant China Grand Pharma to further develop the drug to combat the Human Parainfluenza Virus (hPIV) – one of the most common causes of respiratory illnesses in infants, sick and the elderly.

Prof von Itzstein has been working on the breakthrough drug for a decade.

Teenager Amelia Anderson was awarded the Young Citizen of the Year for her commitment to the community through extensive volunteer work and fundraising efforts.

The 92.5 Triple M Community Service Award went to Ormeau Progress Association president Judy Hendrikx, who will celebrate her 40th anniversary in the role this year.

GOLD COAST SCHOOL FEE HIKES REVEALED: FULL LIST

World Champion Archer Richard Peters during training at Hinterland Field Archers range at Nerang. Pic Mike Batterham

World champion archer Richard Peters won the Sport Achievement Award for dedication to the sport and commitment to his local archery club.

The Cultural Achievement Award was awarded to Aarti Bajaj, artistic director of Gold Coast-based production company Wild Dreamer Productions, which is helping develop the Gold Coast arts and culture scene.

OTHER NEWS

Jann Stuckey resigns, reveals battle with depression

Bus stabbing victim speaks out: ‘they just think it’s ok’

Gold Coast mum to pay back $12K after Centrelink swindle

Wild Dreamer Productions CEO/Founder and main cast member Aarti Bajaj. Picture: Jerad Williams

City of Gold Coast’s Saraya Robinson won the Environmental Achievement Award for her work in engaging more than 14,000 individuals across the city with activities and programs aimed at conserving and exploring the natural environment.

Saraya Robinson and 5 yr Kai dressed as superheroes as they plant trees for community event. Picture: John Gass

Mayor Tom Tate said he was honoured to meet the award recipients and thanked them for their contribution to the community.

“Each of these citizens has helped make the Gold Coast an even greater place to live,’’ he said.

“On behalf of the city, I’d like to thank these local legends for their ongoing commitment to the Gold Coast. Your hard work and dedication to our city does not go unnoticed.”