Mathias has a strong commitment to both the energy sector and community health in Latrobe City.

Mathias volunteers in his local community for multiple causes including the Yinnar Community Garden, Baw Baw LLEN Job SkillsExpo, Victorian Cemetery Trust – Narracan Cemetery and North Gippsland Football and Netball League for the Mindful Aus Mental Health Round Ambassadorship.

In addition to his contributions locally, Mathias has participated on community advisory groups including the Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone Transmission Project. Mathias also sits as a member of the Gippsland Primary Health Network’s community advisory committee as he wishes to raise the community’s voice in health, particularly since becoming a dad.

Mathias challenges himself to have input in Latrobe City’s future, as he wants to make it a better place for his daughter.

Mathias has a goal to make meaningful and impactful contributions by the time he is thirty. He will turn thirty in March 2025 and is well and truly on the trajectory to develop his involvement in the community.

Mathias is also a well-respected team member and team leader at one of Latrobe City’s largest employers, AGL Loy Yang

Delia has been an active member of the International Women’s Group since 2008, contributing as a dancing choreographer and founder of a group that now has over 20 members. She leads
weekly dance lessons, continuing her commitment to the group to this day.

Delia’s performances have enriched many events across Victoria, including at the Rotary Club, Philippine Australians Medical Association and the Australian Commonwealth Games, among others. She is known for her talent, kindness, patience, and everpresent smile.

Delia is also deeply involved in other community organisations, holding roles such as Treasurer, Secretary, and Vice President. She worked at Provider Family Day Care and Pooh Corner Child Care Centre until her retirement. Delia earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education in the Philippines in 1972 and has lived in Boolarra, Victoria, since 1985.

At 72, Delia remains fit, active, and a true leader in the community. She serves as Vice President and Treasurer for the Alay Kapwa Filipino Charity, and Treasurer for both the Filipino-Australian Association of Gippsland and Filippino-Australian Senior Citizens in Gippsland. Delia’s leadership, volunteerism, and positive energy inspires others, making her a valued role model in her community.

Claire is a dedicated young leader whose contributions to the Latrobe City community are both inspiring and impactful. As a key figure in the Blue Light program, she has worked to build positive relationships between local youth and law enforcement, fostering a safer, more connected community.

Claire’s leadership also shines in the Community Leading Project, where she has directed initiatives that engage youth in addressing local issues and driving meaningful change.

Claire’s achievements have been recognised with her selection as an ABC Takeover Latrobe Valley award winner. During the Latrobe Valley Takeover Week, she will share her inspiring story,
encouraging other young leaders in the community.

Claire has served as Mayor of the Latrobe City Youth Council, representing young people’s voices and advocating for initiatives that benefit local youth. Her roles as School Captain and House
Captain at Kurnai College Junior Campus further demonstrate her ability to inspire and lead. Claire’s experience as a Peer Support Leader and at the School for Student Leadership has honed her
skills, making her a positive force for change.

Claire’s unwavering dedication to community service, leadership, and youth advocacy makes her a deserving candidate for Young Citizen of the Year.

The AGL Loy Yang Traralgon International, held annually at the Traralgon Tennis Association, is celebrating its 32nd event in January 2025. Over the past 31 years, the tournament has provideda crucial platform for young, world-class tennis talent, with past participants like Roger Federer, Alex Zverev, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff going on to international stardom.

This event off ers local, Victorian and interstate players the invaluable opportunity to compete at an international level, boosting their confi dence and experience. Through nominations,
local youth have the chance to compete in the qualifying draws, opening doors to new opportunities.

The tournament also brings significant economic benefits, contributing over $2.4 million to the region in 2024.

The success of the event is made possible by more than 100 dedicated volunteers, who assist with catering, transport and general venue maintenance. Local ball children, who are often
aspiring tennis players themselves, also play a key role during the semi-finals and grand finals. These children mentor one another, demonstrating leadership and community spirit.

With strong support from Tennis Australia, the AGL Loy Yang Traralgon International continues to be a cornerstone event in both the local community and the tennis world.

The Rotary Club of Moe is proud to celebrate 75 years of service to the local community. Since its founding in April 1949, the club has made a lasting impact through fundraising, community projects, and youth leadership initiatives. In June 2024, the club hosted a gala event to commemorate its rich history, featuring memorabilia, a photo collage, and a commemorative booklet for attendees.

Throughout its history, the Rotary Club of Moe has maintained a prominent presence in the community, engaging in projects like tree planting, town beautification and supporting local organisations such as Gippsland Rotary Centenary House and Latrobe Regional Hospital. The club’s ongoing efforts also include advocacy for youth development, with programs like Pride of Workmanship, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards and Rotary Junior Community Awards at local schools.

In recent years, the club has raised over $100,000 for various initiatives, including contributions to the Botanic Gardens and the Rotary Golf Day fundraiser. Internationally, the club supports Rotary’s efforts to eradicate polio and has adopted a school in Bali. With a steadfast commitment to “Service Above Self,” the Rotary Club of Moe continues to make a positive impact locally and globally