At the State Gala Ceremony for the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, the following people were recognised with Lifetime Achievement Awards:
Beverly Baker
Beverly is a lifelong advocate for education, equity, and the rights of older women. As President of the Older Women’s Network NSW, she modernised the organisation and expanded its advocacy to include homelessness, aged care, employment discrimination, and abuse. Beverly also leads the Aboriginal Education Council and has championed Indigenous community revitalisation and education. Her leadership spans decades of volunteer service, from founding local initiatives, to providing a voice for parents and children in Public Schools, to representing older women’s rights at the UN. Beverly’s work empowers vulnerable communities, promotes lifelong learning, and fosters social connection.
Jill Stuart
Through her tireless volunteering and advocacy, Jill was instrumental in establishing The Stuart Centre in Croudace Bay, The Centre is the longest operating Cerebral Palsy Alliance therapy centre, and currently supports more than 350 therapy and lifestyle clients. For over 60 years, Jill has focused her volunteering on supporting people with disabilities. From writing grants, securing funding, to clearing the land, and planting trees, she continues to advocate tirelessly for improved services and remains a steady figure at the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Her commitment to the cause, coupled with her personal connection as a mother of a child with cerebral palsy, makes her an inspirational figure in the community. Jill’s legacy, as a trailblazer and advocate for people with cerebral palsy, is a testament to her extraordinary dedication and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.
2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Award Sponsors
2025 State Gala Ceremony Sponsors
