Solidarity, Community & Volunteerism Award: The 2024 nominees

Alison Woosley (NSW) is a former lawyer who has transitioned over her professional life into performing business, strategy, development and chief of staff style roles.

Most recently she was the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at one of Australia’s top tier law firms. There she was instrumental in elevating diversity and inclusion to a strategic priority and drove a cultural change that delivered results internally and which were recognised by the broader business community.

Alison has an Executive MBA from Ecole des Ponts in Paris and is a Graduate of the AICD's Company Directors’ course.

She is a former director of the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is currently active with other Not-for profit committees.

Anne Compos (Vivre au Queensland, QLD) has been a vibrant member of the Australian community for over 30 years. Actively involved in various French associations in Brisbane, she has served as a secretary and warmly welcomed new arrivals over coffee, often addressing their common questions and concerns.

Recognising the need for a centralised resource, Anne collaborated with Brisbane Accueil to design a website that gathers essential information for French speakers. Additionally, she initiated a weekly newsletter, "Vivre au Queensland," to promote information from French associations, local businesses, and all things related to France and the Francophone world. Originally from Belgium and married to a Frenchman, Anne's passion for fostering connections runs deep.

Today, "Vivre au Queensland" reaches 15,000 subscribers every Friday at 10 AM, with many eagerly awaiting its arrival. Anne dedicates significant time and effort to curate and share valuable information, showcasing her proactive commitment to enhancing the lives of the French community in Brisbane.

Anne Mangeant (Bayard Presse & Le Van du Livre, NSW) has always had a passion for sharing the French language. In England, she taught in schools and universities and worked as a translator for the renowned Eurotunnel project.

She has been living in Australia for over 20 years and represents Bayard Jeunesse, a publisher of educational magazines for children and young adults. In 2014, she helped develop the French Books on Wheels concept (Le Van du Livre) and became the association's vice president. The project aims to connect with francophones and francophiles, introducing them to French-language publications through cultural exchanges across Australia.

Anne is passionate about encouraging children to read and learn, favouring paper materials over increasing screen time. She brings ‘a little piece of France, even from afar’.

Audrey Roby (Reddam House Sydney, NSW) has demonstrated remarkable commitment and generosity in supporting and informing New Caledonians in Australia affected by the tragic events in New Caledonia in 2024. Her efforts have played a crucial role in fostering a sense of community and solidarity during challenging times.

As a native French speaker with extensive knowledge of the New South Wales French syllabus, Audrey is well-equipped to address the needs of the French-speaking community. She is an experienced Stage 6 teacher, specialising in both Continuers and Extension courses, and has served as a senior HSC marker and examiner.

Self-motivated and highly organised, Audrey brings exceptional skills to her role, ensuring that those in need receive the support and information necessary to navigate their circumstances. Her dedication to community service and volunteerism makes her a valuable asset in promoting solidarity among her peers.

A passionate champion of arts, culture, and community engagement, Betty Moinet is a powerhouse known for her unwavering advocacy of multicultural celebration to enrich the cultural landscape in Brisbane.

Betty is perhaps most known as the co-founder, Director, and Vice-President of the successful Brisbane French Festival (Le Festival), playing a vital role in showcasing and promoting the richness of French culture through gastronomy, oenology, music, arts, education....

Her zeal, determination, steadfast dedication, and support of cultural visibility and community initiatives, through events like Le Festival, don’t stop there. She has previously served as a board member for the Alliance Française de Brisbane for over ten years. Her commitment to fostering strong ties between French and Australian communities is further exemplified through her roles as the Vice-President for the French Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland Chapter, and representing Brisbane’s French Community at the Lord Mayor’s Multicultural roundtable. She has been prestigiously bestowed the French National Order of Merit (Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérit) in 2019 to recognise her tremendous efforts.

Her natural gift of connecting people and communities is evident through her contributions towards strengthening multicultural unity, community bonds, and solidarity among diverse groups. Betty Moinet truly epitomises the spirit of cooperation, collaboration and cultural celebration, making her a notable figure in the Franco-Australian arts, business and community sectors.

Carol Abela (Friends of the Laperouse Museum, NSW) is a dedicated advocate for cultural exchange and community development, with a remarkable legacy spanning over three decades as a former Justice of the Peace. Since the opening of the Laperouse Museum in 1988, she has actively promoted its mission while enhancing the Australia-France relationship. Her passion for French culture is evident in her interactions, speeches, and the strong relationships she fosters with both the Australian and French communities.

As President of the Friends of the Laperouse Museum, Carol has played a vital role in organising events that bridge these cultures. She has successfully welcomed French VIPs and facilitated connections between local Indigenous communities and French activities, promoting inclusivity and cultural appreciation.

Carol's extensive experience with the Museum includes organising lectures and events that celebrate the legacy of the Laperouse expedition. She has also advocated for the museum's interests at various levels of management, ensuring its sustainability and relevance. Her lobbying efforts have led to significant enhancements, such as the annual Pere Receveur Commemoration Mass, which honours the first Catholic Mass in Australia.

Her commitment extends beyond the Museum; Carol is actively involved in local initiatives like the Clean Up Australia Campaign and has held various leadership roles in community organisations, including the Malabar Combined Probus Club and the Randwick City Tourism Committee. Her ability to build strong relationships with local politicians and stakeholders has further amplified her impact on community development.

Carol's dedication to enhancing the Australia-France relationship is also reflected in her successful efforts to name local streets after French explorers, cementing their legacy in the area. Her work with the La Perouse Museum and Headland Trust exemplifies her commitment to preserving and promoting French-Australian history.

Throughout her career, Carol has received numerous accolades, including a Randwick City Council Australia Day Community Service Award. Her tireless advocacy and leadership continue to enrich the cultural landscape of La Perouse, making her a vital figure in fostering community ties and promoting cultural heritage.

Catherine Cardinet (French Assist Melbourne, VIC) was born and raised in Paris, where she studied languages and developed a lifelong passion for exploring and appreciating other cultures. This passion has deeply influenced her life, which she wouldn’t change for the world.

Since moving to Melbourne nearly 30 years ago, Catherine has dedicated herself to promoting French culture and fostering connections between France and Australia through arts, entertainment, and events.

She is a founding member of Melbourne Accueil, supporting French expatriates in Australia, and helped establish the Bastille Day French Festival Melbourne, a major event that showcases French culture beyond food, incorporating music, art, and performance. As the secretary of French Assist Melbourne, she works to support French citizens in Victoria.

Catherine has also been involved with Les Amis du Mercredi, a Franco-Australian conversation group, and is a long-standing member of the Association Française des Combattants du Victoria, honouring her father’s legacy.

In Australia, Catherine has contributed to the arts by serving on the boards of the Red Stitch Actors Ensemble and the Melbourne Baroque Orchestra, promoting both French and Australian performance arts. She has also worked on fundraising committees for the Victorian College of the Arts and the Australian Chamber Orchestra, and volunteers with the Australian National Academy of Music, supporting young musicians.

As a professional tour guide, she leads cultural tours highlighting the French presence in Melbourne. Additionally, she plays a key role in planning and executing events for cultural festivals and organisations, and has spoken at numerous public events.

L'heure Francophone led by Cyril Metral (QLD) is a vibrant radio show that serves as the heartbeat of the French-speaking community in Australia. Broadcasting from Brisbane’s multicultural radio station, 4EB, our program offers a unique blend of information, entertainment, and cultural celebration that resonates with both Francophones and Francophiles.

Our mission is twofold: to inform and entertain our listeners while simultaneously preserving and promoting the French language and culture in Australia. We achieve this through a diverse range of content that includes: - Community Engagement: We conduct interviews with local Francophones, from everyday citizens to prominent figures, sharing their experiences and perspectives. This fosters a sense of belonging and connection within the community. - Cultural Bridge: Our show acts as a link between French-speaking cultures and the broader Australian community, promoting intercultural understanding and appreciation. - Current Affairs: We discuss contemporary issues relevant to our audience, encouraging informed dialogue and active citizenship. - Expert Columns: Regular segments feature expertise on topics such as cuisine, sports, technology, and more, showcasing the diverse talents within our community. - Local Reporting: We cover events, initiatives, and inspiring stories from the Francophone community across Australia, highlighting our collective contributions to the nation's multicultural fabric. - Environmental and Health Focus: We dedicate airtime to critical issues like climate change and marine life conservation, promoting awareness and action among our listeners. - Musical Journey: Our shows feature a rich selection of music from various Francophone artists, celebrating the diversity of French-language music.

L'heure Francophone has become an essential platform for French speakers in Australia, helping newcomers integrate, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering understanding between diverse communities. We’ve been instrumental in promoting French language and culture in a multicultural context, supporting French-speaking immigrants on their integration journey, and building bridges between various French-speaking communities and the wider Australian public.

As we continue to grow and evolve, L'heure Francophone remains committed to being the voice of the Francophone community in Australia. We invite listeners to join us on this exciting journey, whether by tuning in live on 98.1 FM, streaming online at www.4eb.org.au, or catching up via our podcast.

L'heure Francophone: Informing, entertaining, and uniting Francophone voices in the land down under.

David Oria (Les Petits Princes, QLD) grew up in Benin, Africa, until he was 12. His family then moved back to France, where he studied to become an engineer. After a brief work experience in Paris, he relocated to New Caledonia for a few years. He is now settled in Brisbane with his 8-year-old daughter and wife.

David has always been deeply involved in his community, serving as a class representative and president of various associations. He is passionate about building a sense of community and giving it a voice.

For the past two years, he has served as president of the association Les Petits Princes Brisbane, which offers French classes to young children connected to the French language and culture. The association, now 25 years old, has benefited a large number of young expatriates. Like many communities, it was significantly impacted by COVID. However, David, together with the association's committee, has worked with great enthusiasm to revitalise it into a vibrant space where the French community can gather, develop connections, and maintain a strong link to French culture.

Dr. Nicole Archard is the Principal of Loreto Kirribilli (NSW), a prestigious independent Catholic girls’ school in Sydney. With a deep passion for girls’ education, Dr. Archard is a specialist in the field, having dedicated her career to empowering young women. She holds a PhD in girls’ education and women in leadership, and her research and experience strongly advocate for the benefits of all-girls’ educational environments.

Dr. Archard believes in the transformative power of a single-sex education. She asserts that educating girls in a focused environment allows for the development of confidence, self-efficacy, and leadership skills — qualities necessary to challenge social and cultural stereotypes. At Loreto Kirribilli, she continues the 400-year legacy of the school’s founder, Mary Ward, who championed the education of women to become "seekers of truth and doers of justice." Under Dr. Archard’s leadership, the school’s students are not only equipped to excel academically but are also nurtured to become ethical and socially responsible leaders who contribute positively to society.

A passionate advocate for addressing gender inequity, Dr. Archard emphasises the role of schools like Loreto Kirribilli in fostering strong self-concept and leadership capabilities in girls, preparing them to become the future leaders society needs. She plays an active role in the global movement for women’s leadership as Deputy Chair of the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) Australasian Advisory Committee, a coalition of over 550 schools worldwide working to elevate women in leadership.

Dr. Archard is a respected scholar in her field, having authored numerous journal articles and book chapters on leadership development in girls. Her published works include research on adolescent leadership, female identity formation, and the critical importance of mentorship in girls’ education. Her contributions to academic discourse have garnered recognition, including awards for excellence in research.

With her commitment to values-based education, Dr. Archard is proud to lead Loreto Kirribilli in its mission to shape young women into confident, compassionate, and capable leaders who embody the Loreto values of Freedom, Justice, Sincerity, Verity, and Felicity.

Elsa Barberio-Dehornoy (Melbourne French Festival, VIC) has been a proud Melburnian for the past five years. She first moved to Australia in 2019, leaving behind a successful career in the transport industry in France. Elsa worked for many years in Project Management and Human Resources at SNCF in Paris before choosing to relocate to Australia. Since then, she has become a freelance executive coach and consultant, passionate about bridging French and Australian cultures.

Elsa joined the Bastille Day French Festival in 2023. Created nine years ago, the festival celebrates French National Day in Melbourne with a vibrant and authentic five-day event in the heart of the city, attracting 36,000 attendees. The event includes a French market at the iconic Queen Victoria Market, the Les Lumières conferences (focusing on areas such as culture, history, sport, and sustainability), masterclasses, and walking tours.

The festival is entirely organised by over 50 passionate volunteers (with a core team of about a dozen), who, year after year, strive to bring new ideas and offer a little slice of France. Elsa quickly became the President of the Festival, dedicating much of her time to creating this annual event. She has focused on attracting a wide variety of Melbourne-based French businesses and associations passionate about French culture, food, history, literature, and technology, while fostering a fun and energetic volunteer team.

Elsa is the mother of five-year-old Gaspard, a little boy who has been singing La Marseillaise in his bed since the Paris 2024 Olympics and eats Vegemite for breakfast. She lives in South Melbourne.

Fiona Bak (REFs Sydney, NSW) has revitalised the French-speaking community in Sydney through her dedicated voluntary leadership of “Les Refs Sydney.” Taking over management with three other volunteers, Fiona has transformed the group into a vibrant hub for French residents and expatriates, synonymous with creativity, innovation, and entertainment.

One of their most popular contributions is the monthly social events, each carefully crafted around a unique theme and featuring interactive activities such as trivia, musical quizzes, and mini-competitions. These eagerly anticipated gatherings attract an average of 50 community members at various venues across Sydney, fostering connections, camaraderie, and a strong sense of belonging.

Fiona's vision extends beyond social events. She introduced monthly wellness workshops, providing community members the opportunity to explore different physical and mental health practices, such as hypnotherapy and sound healing, at affordable rates. This initiative reflects her commitment to health and well-being, emphasising equality and care for the community’s holistic wellness, drawing from her background as a former mental health nurse.

Alongside the other administrators, Fiona also leads larger-scale projects, such as traditional pétanque and Molkky tournaments, which have become key cultural touchpoints for French expatriates. Additionally, she helped organise a boat music festival during Sydney’s Mardi Gras, bringing together 153 French expatriates in a joyful celebration of their culture.

This winter, Fiona guided her team through two successful events: a charity bingo night, supported by 21 French and Australian sponsors, which raised nearly $3,000 to assist another French-speaking community in New Caledonia, and giant Olympiads in honour of the Paris Olympic Games. These initiatives not only provided entertainment but also deepened community engagement and promoted a spirit of solidarity.

Fiona’s tireless voluntary work, dedicating part-time hours to these projects, has made a lasting impact on the French-speaking expatriate community. Her passion for bringing people together and enhancing their lives has enriched the social fabric of the community, which has widely appreciated her efforts with Les Refs. Her charity bingo night exemplifies her commitment to solidarity beyond her immediate circle. Celebrated for her energy, enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication, Fiona has become a key figure in promoting French culture, fostering solidarity, and enhancing well-being in Australia.

Genevieve Papon (Auburn High School, VIC) is the French Binational Coordinatorof the Auburn High School.

Gilbert Ducasse (Alliance Française de Melbourne, VIC) is a distinguished leader in Melbourne's Francophone community, celebrated for his unwavering commitment to promoting French culture and language. With over two decades of service on the board of the Alliance Française de Melbourne, including nearly nine years as its President, Gilbert has played a pivotal role in advancing the mission of fostering French language and culture both locally and globally.

During his leadership, Gilbert guided the Alliance through significant challenges, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the successful acquisition of a new building. He introduced a new governance structure through the establishment of several sub-committees reporting to the Board. His strategic vision and unifying approach were instrumental in enhancing the Alliance's growth and outreach.

From 2010 to 2024, Gilbert was an active member of the national committee of the Alliance Française French Film Festival, the largest celebration of French cinema outside France. As a lawyer and public notary, he played a key role in establishing a separate legal entity for the Festival in early 2024, ensuring its continued success.

In recognition of his dedication to promoting the French language and culture, Gilbert was honoured with the title of Chevalier dans l’Ordre du Mérite by the French government in 2018. His influence extended beyond Melbourne; in 2020, he was elected as the first President of the Asia Pacific region for the Board of the Fondation des Alliances Françaises in Paris, reflecting his esteemed position within the global Francophone network.

With over 30 years of experience as a lawyer and more than five years as a public notary, Gilbert's legal expertise has been invaluable to the Alliance Française de Melbourne, further solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the promotion of Francophone culture.

Gilbert’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the promotion of French language and culture in Melbourne and beyond.

Gillian Tegg serves as the principal of Killarney Heights Public School (NSW). Recognizing the importance of fostering strong connections within the school community, Gillian has been instrumental in strengthening links with key partners such as the French Speaking Association of the North Shore (FANS) and the Australian Association of French-English Bilingual Schools to deliver a unique and celebrated French-English bilingual program.

As the leader of KHPS, Gillian has embraced the enduring partnership and collaboration between the Department of Education and FANS over the past 25 years. This partnership has grown to become a benchmark for excellence in the delivery of bilingual French-English education in Australia and internationally. The bilingual program at Killarney Heights Public School is a distinctive feature that provides children with the best opportunity to learn and grow bilingually in an Australian context.

Gillian's commitment to upholding the values of diversity, inclusion, and gender equality within the school community is reflected in the success of the bilingual program. By promoting a supportive and inclusive environment, Gillian ensures that every student at Killarney Heights Public School feels valued and respected for their individuality.

In addition to her focus on diversity and inclusion, Gillian is a staunch advocate for solidarity, community, and volunteerism. By engaging with the school community and fostering active participation, she has cultivated a culture of collaboration and support that enhances the overall educational experience at Killarney Heights Public School.

Gillian Tegg remains dedicated to nurturing strong partnerships and initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and gender equality at Killarney Heights Public School. Her leadership and commitment to providing a high-quality bilingual education underscore her vision for an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all members of the school community.

Born in France to Vietnamese parents, Karine Pham (Graymont, NSW) embodies a unique blend of cultures that have shaped her journey. In 2007, she made the transformative move to Sydney, Australia, where she embarked on an academic and professional path reflecting her passion for innovation and community engagement. Karine pursued a Bachelor of Electronics at ESTE (Groupe ESIEE) and later completed a Master of Innovation at Grenoble Ecole de Management. Eager to expand her horizons, she furthered her education in Australia, becoming a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) while also earning a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences from Swinburne University of Technology through Open Universities.

Upon her arrival in Sydney, Karine dedicated herself to fostering connections among newcomers and expats as an assistant organiser and host for various groups, including Newcomers Network and Fraussies. Her commitment to building a supportive network was exemplified when she participated in pitching the young professionals membership for the French Australian Chamber of Commerce during 2008-2009.

Since 2015, Karine has reprised the manager role in the French Business School Alumni in Australia group, organising numerous events that create platforms for networking and collaboration among alumni. She co-founded the professional networking event "French Aussie Drinks," which has evolved into "European Aussie Drinks." This initiative has become a vibrant after-work gathering for European expatriates in Australia and Australians with connections to Europe.

Karine's investment in the French community stems from her belief in the power of connections. Helping others to network has enriched her own life—leading to job opportunities, a visa, and a profound life turnaround—while allowing her to give back to the community that supported her during challenging times.

Looking to the future, Karine envisions a collaborative effort to unite the community of French Business Schools Alumni with France Alumni, and more notably the Australian-French Association for Research and Innovation (AFRAN). Her hope is to provide opportunities for people to meet and mingle in an open and informal environment, fostering the connections that have been so vital in her own journey.

Káti Gapaillard (The Fathering Project, NSW) is a visionary leader dedicated to advancing diversity, inclusion, and gender equality. Her career exemplifies a deep commitment to social impact, community building, and volunteering. With extensive international experience and board-level leadership, Káti has consistently pushed the boundaries of what it means to lead in today’s complex, interconnected world.

At the heart of Káti’s work is a passion for reshaping societal norms and narratives, particularly around gender equity and social justice. She firmly believes in the power of diverse voices and perspectives to drive sustainable change. Her leadership has been instrumental in breaking down systemic barriers that limit opportunities for marginalised groups, particularly women and underrepresented communities. Káti embodies the philosophy of fostering gender equality and inclusion by actively promoting leadership opportunities for marginalised cohorts and driving initiatives that prioritise diversity and inclusion in both policy and practice.

A core aspect of her leadership is a strong focus on solidarity and community. Káti’s initiatives have consistently fostered collaborative environments, creating spaces where individuals and organisations can work together for the greater good. Whether working with governments, global corporations, or non-profits, Káti builds strategic alliances that strengthen community ties and empower individuals to be agents of change.

Her efforts reflect a deep commitment to volunteerism, recognizing the importance of collective action and social responsibility. She firmly believes that volunteering plays a critical role in achieving sustainable development goals by enhancing social cohesion and strengthening community resilience. Káti’s dedication to fostering a culture of service aligns with the global movement toward volunteer-driven societal progress.

Káti’s leadership style centres on empowerment, continuous learning, and inclusivity, resulting in high-performing teams that not only meet strategic objectives but also drive systemic change. Her passion for mentoring future leaders underscores her commitment to inclusive economic growth, as diverse leadership is essential for creating equitable and thriving societies.

Key highlights of her career include championing diversity, inclusion, and gender equality; a proven track record in board-level leadership across sectors; a strong focus on community, solidarity, and volunteer-driven initiatives; and a deep commitment to mentoring and empowering future leaders for sustainable social impact.

Ludovic David-Heredia (Consulat Général de France à Sydney, NSW) serves as the Head of Administration for French citizens at the Consulate General of France, where he has taken on the significant responsibility of preparing and coordinating the 2024 elections across Australia, as well as in Fiji and Papua New Guinea. This includes both the European elections and the legislative elections, which are being organised within a historically short timeframe.

Ludovic has approached this challenging task with remarkable efficiency and dedication. His availability and attentiveness to the needs of the community have been crucial in ensuring a smooth electoral process for French citizens abroad. Through his commitment and leadership, he exemplifies the values of solidarity and community engagement, making a lasting impact on the lives of those he serves.

Marie Wilkening-Le Brun (VIC) is a distinguished legal professional, called to the Victorian Bar in 2007. With a robust foundation in family law, civil and commercial law—including bankruptcy and insolvency—she has established a significant presence in the Australian legal landscape. Marie was admitted to practise in Victoria in 2005 and in England and Wales in 2002, bringing over two decades of expertise to her role.

Throughout her career, Marie has appeared in all facets of family law, handling complex cases involving children's matters, relocations, Hague Convention applications, and family violence. Her insights into family law property matters include advice on equitable and family trusts, international assets, inheritances, and financial agreements. Additionally, in commercial law, she provides comprehensive legal advice, drafts essential documents, and represents clients in bankruptcy and contractual disputes.

From 2014 to 2020, Marie served as the voluntary president of the French Australian Lawyers Society (FALS), where she demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to the community. In recognition of her extensive contributions, she was awarded the Ordre National du Mérite by the French President in 2022, underscoring her dedication to fostering strong ties between France and Australia.

Marie’s earlier experience in the UK involved prestigious law firms, where she gained expertise in mergers and acquisitions and high-profile commercial litigation related to EU law. Today, she continues to mentor emerging legal professionals and actively participates in initiatives that strengthen community bonds.

In both 2022 and 2023, Marie was nominated as a finalist for Barrister of the Year by the esteemed publication Lawyers Weekly, reflecting her outstanding achievements in the legal field. Her passion for justice and community service makes her a remarkable advocate for solidarity and volunteerism.

Pascal Giraud is the Lead Swimming Coach at Lycée Condorcet Sydney (NSW), the International French School of Sydney. With unwavering dedication, he has become the cornerstone of the swimming program at LCS, passionately coaching and mentoring countless students and enthusiastic swimmers.

Pascal devotes his time and expertise to developing a strong sense of effort and competitive spirit among his athletes, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all participants. His commitment not only enhances the swimming skills of his students but also instils valuable life lessons in teamwork and perseverance.

Through his tireless efforts, Pascal plays a vital role in nurturing the next generation of swimmers, contributing to the community's growth and promoting a love for sports at LCS.

Pascale Sinclair (QLD) has been the President of French Assist Queensland for nearly a decade, dedicating her time and energy to supporting the French-speaking community in Brisbane and throughout Queensland. Under her leadership, Pascale and her team have tirelessly worked to provide essential services and resources, fostering a strong sense of community and connection among members.

Her commitment to volunteerism and community service exemplifies her passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. Pascale's unwavering dedication ensures that French Assist Queensland remains a vital resource for those in need, promoting inclusivity and support within the French-speaking population.

Peter Ireland (NSW) is a fluent French speaker who actively engages in the French community through weekly conversation classes in Mosman. He has published several articles in French, including notable pieces in Le Figaro, comparing Australian and French culture, arts, literature, music, gastronomy, and history.

In 2023, Peter took significant steps to promote French culture by arranging work and accommodation for four French backpackers at the prestigious Gilbert Winery in Mudgee. He was invited to attend a French soirée hosted by Mr. Patrick Benhamou, Regional Manager for Atout France. That same year, he and his wife travelled to France for the Rugby World Cup (La Coupe du Monde) and to promote Chamonix. His delightful story, "The Famous Chamonix Baguette," was featured in the Chamonix Journal. This story recounts Peter's return to Chamonix after 44 years, where he was welcomed by the Mayor as a citizen of Chamonix, marking a heartwarming reunion with the community.

Over the past 25 years, Peter has been a dedicated fundraiser for various charities in Sydney and has represented Australia in community sports, including athletics, rugby, and triathlon. In 2021, he was honoured with a "Distinguished Alumni Award" from his university for his extensive contributions to community fundraising and sports.

Currently, Peter is the Director of Shamrock Consulting Services, where he advises boards and organisations on best practices in governance, ethics, and risk management. He is also a contracted speechwriter. Previously, he served as Director of Governance, Policy, and Risk for a 9,000-staff not-for-profit organisation and as Deputy Headmaster at St Ignatius’ College, Riverview.

Philippe Gravier (SA) is the Manager of Seaway and the former President of the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FACCI) South Australia. As a father of three, he is deeply engaged in the French community in South Australia. Philippe plays an active role in several organisations, including the French Benevolent Association of South Australia, Alliance Française d'Adelaide, and Adelaide Accueil, where he contributes to promoting French culture and supporting the local French-speaking community.

Rosi Fernandez (La Prairie, NSW) is a passionate and optimistic leader with over 30 years of management experience in the luxury retail sector. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed, continuously developing individuals and teams to reach their full potential. Known for her empathetic leadership style, Rosi has a proven track record of guiding organisations to financial success while fostering an environment of personal growth and community support.

Her extensive experience in luxury retail management has equipped Rosi with a unique set of skills in business operations, team development, and financial oversight. Despite her impressive accomplishments in a highly competitive industry, what sets Rosi apart is her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the business world. She is driven by a genuine desire to uplift others and believes that true success comes from empowering those around her to achieve their personal best.

Rosi’s commitment to solidarity and community is reflected in her continuous efforts to give back. She is actively involved in volunteerism, consistently seeking opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s through mentoring, charity work, or community engagement, Rosi leads with a heart full of generosity and a mindset focused on collective wellbeing.

Her ethos of “doing better, for others, every day” is not just a professional motto but a personal mission. Rosi’s leadership extends beyond the office, as she actively engages in initiatives that promote health, wellbeing, and community solidarity. Her work in the volunteer space is a testament to her belief that everyone has the potential to make a difference, and she strives to inspire others to contribute to the greater good.

Xavier Miliano (NSW) is a 22-year-old from New Caledonia who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Commerce from the École de Gestion et de Commerce in New Caledonia. He has been in Sydney on a Working Holiday Visa for the past seven months.

On May 13, 2024, riots erupted in New Caledonia, particularly in Nouméa, in response to a constitutional reform being debated in Paris. This reform, aimed at expanding the electorate for local elections, faced strong opposition from independence supporters, leading to violent protests, fires, looting, and clashes with law enforcement. These events heightened tensions between those advocating for independence and those in favour of maintaining ties with France.

The violent demonstrations resulted in the suspension of international flights, leaving many Caledonians stranded abroad, including those vacationing in Australia. Local media, such as NCla1ere, reported on the situation, highlighting the challenges faced by these travellers trying to return home.

In response to the plight of stranded Caledonians in Sydney, a spontaneous solidarity network formed to offer temporary accommodation through friends, neighbours, and acquaintances. Xavier actively participated in this initiative, helping to welcome those in need. His support was invaluable in alleviating the isolation felt by these travellers, far from their loved ones. To lighten their forced stay, they were also invited to explore some of Sydney’s iconic sites, creating a warmer and more comforting atmosphere during this challenging time.