Everald Compton Community Champion Medal
Congratulations to Rosie and to all nominees for the vast and varied ways you contribute to your communities.
The Everald Compton Community Champion Medal is a prestigious award recognising unsung heroes among older Australians. It honours National Seniors Australia’s founding father, Everald Compton, and his outstanding contribution to the community, while celebrating everyday champions ‘turning grey into gold’ through grassroots experience and selfless service.
The award reflects NSA’s values of fairness, excellence and respect – qualities embodied by Everald himself. Pictured are the 2026 Finalists with Everald: Rosie Fitzgerald, Sandra Slatter, Jane McMillan, Tom Slockee, and Robert Shewring.
Nominations for the prestigious accolade were received nationwide but it was Kilkivan-based Rosie Fitzgerald who took home the silverware for her tireless work to improve the experience of ageing for residents in Kilkivan – a rural region around 50kms northwest of Gympie, for her work to help residents, including those living with dementia, to stay connected and to age in place rather than relocate. Congratulations to Rosie and to all nominees for the vast and varied ways you contribute to your communities.
Impact on Community
The medal recognises an individual who has been a strong advocate for their community. Someone who has enriched and made a significant and measurable contribution to the well-being of their community.
Intergenerational
The medal will recognise a connector of older and younger generations, promoting the positive value of intergenerational unity.
Leadership & Inspiration
The individual has inspired others to engage in issues important in their community. This includes demonstrating generosity, philanthropy, and a commitment to volunteerism. Leadership can be demonstrated through organising community initiatives, leading advocacy campaigns, or being a role model in the community.
Community Involvement & Collaboration
The individual has actively engaged with the community and fostered collaborative efforts. This can include partnerships with other organisations, diverse community groups, or governmental bodies.
Inclusivity & Accessibility
The nominee’s work promotes inclusivity, ensuring that programs or initiatives are accessible to all seniors, regardless of their background, ability, or economic status.
Dementia & Mental Health
In recognition of the prevalence and impact of dementia and mental health conditions, this category has been included to acknowledge an individual who has helped to provide care and / or support to an individual, or their loved ones affected by dementia or a mental health condition. Or, who has provided support through research or philanthropic endeavours.
Please note that the nominee is not required to meet all the listed criteria to be considered for this honour. The judging panel will consider a diverse range of contributions and qualities, recognising that excellence manifests in many different ways.
