Central Coast Council has announced the winners of the 2025 Australia Day Awards, with the overall Citizen of the Year Award going to non-for-profit organisation Happiness Habits Inc for their support of local disadvantaged women. 

Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith said these annual awards are a way for Council and the wider community to acknowledge those who are going the extra mile and are making a real difference. 

“The nomination process always brings to the forefront many of the unsung heroes of the Central Coast that make an outstanding contribution to their local community and worthy of the spotlight and recognition,” Ms Smith said.

“Happiness Habits Inc were awarded the Citizen of the Year Award for their support to women on the Central Coast that face social isolation, domestic violence, and mental health challenges. Their all-encompassing approach and programs support these women through difficult times, and also help to build resilience, confidence and skills - so they not only survive but thrive. 

“The Australia Day Award 2025 category winners are also commended for their contribution to our community and include The Bikers Hand Inc (Community Group Award), Matilda Taylor (Young Person Award), Betty Brown (Senior Citizen Award), Louise Chiekrie (Community Life Award) and Derryck Klarkowski and Paul Mikkelsen (joint winners of the Volunteer Award).” 

Central Coast Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said these annual awards celebrate and recognise those who enrich and serve our community. 

“It’s been an honour to present the awards to this group of remarkable local residents and organisations, spotlighting the selfless work they do within our local community that positively impacts the lives of so many,” Mayor McKinna said.

“Congratulations to each of the 2025 awards winners, and to those nominated. Thank you all for your outstanding work that truly demonstrates the generous and caring community spirit on the Central Coast”.

A brief biography of each of the Australia Day 2025 award winners for the Central Coast is included below:

Central Coast Citizen of the Year Award 2025 – Happiness Habits Inc.
Happiness Habits Inc is a non-for-profit organisation that support's disadvantaged women through free mentoring, positive psychology, empowerment training and social connection. The organisation has made a significant impact in community services by delivering transformative programs tailored to the needs of disadvantaged women on the Central Coast. Their comprehensive approach combines mentoring, skill-building workshops, and community engagement to foster long-term resilience. The organisation excels in supporting women facing social isolation, domestic violence, and mental health challenges. Providing a safe environment, they help women rebuild their lives, regain confidence, and reintegrate into the community. Additionally, Happiness Habits Inc promotes community safety and advocates for services supporting vulnerable women, creating a ripple effect that benefits the broader community.   

Community Group Award Winner - The Bikers Hand Inc.
The Bikers Hand began its journey in 2015 with a mission to make a real difference in the lives of those in need, driven by a passion for charity rides and helping the homeless. Since 2018, they have become a helping hand for over 50 Central Coast charities and schools, supporting a wide range of initiatives including breakfast programs, domestic violence assistance, and homeless support. Their annual Christmas Toy Run brings joy to children and families during tough times, and they host various events to uplift the community and replenish their supplies.  In addition to helping people, The Bikers Hand supports animal shelters and groups dedicated to rescuing and rehoming animals. More than just a charity, The Bikers Hand is a compassionate community making a positive impact on the Central Coast. 

Community Life Award Winner - Louise Chiekrie
Louise Chiekrie is a resident of Lake Munmorah and whilst she has had various jobs, her true passion is music, especially drumming. After years as a drummer in a band, Lou established "Happy Tappers with Lou," a one-woman act that facilitates drumming and music circles in residential aged care facilities across the Central Coast. Transitioning to residential aged care can be challenging, often reducing personal autonomy and opportunities for artistic engagement. Happy Tappers aims to restore joy to the lives of elders by providing an hour of music and movement. Lou travels throughout the northern areas, bringing accessible drumming equipment and inviting residents to enjoy and participate in activities tailored to their needs. Residents eagerly await her visits, with staff reporting that the sessions are the week’s highlight for residents. Observing positive changes in residents' moods, Lou takes the time to engage with them, reinforcing that meaningful connections enhance well-being. Through Happy Tappers, Lou brings joy to older adults on the Central Coast and fosters a sense of community in residential aged care. 

Senior Citizen Award Winner - Betty Brown
Betty Brown, a resident of Long Jetty, is now in her 96th year and has a rich history of community service and demonstrates the essence of community life.  Following Betty Brown’s retirement from teaching subjects like sciences and geography, Betty pursued computer skills through local community college courses. She joined the Long Jetty Senior Citizens Club, where she was unexpectedly asked to teach computer classes, meeting the growing demand for computer literacy among seniors. Her classes were always full, and she has taught hundreds of students over the years. Betty held several leadership roles in the EDSACC Croquet Club, where she is a life member. She was the club's Secretary for 12 years and later became the Publicity Officer, redesigning the club’s quarterly magazine, “Happy Talk,” into a 20-page booklet. She introduced a monthly newsletter called “Senior Moment” to keep members informed. Betty also lectured on Australian geography at U3A and was invited to speak at organisations like Probus and Rotary. Betty Brown is a well-known figure among long-time employees of Central Coast Council, writing several essays over the years for the Council’s GOALL magazine, and created the masthead title which stands for Growing Older and Living Life. 

Joint Volunteer Award Winner - Derryck Klarkowski
Derryck Klarkowski, a resident of Wyongah, is the founder and volunteer CEO of We Care Connect (WCC), a local charity providing pre-loved clothing, cots, prams, and car seats to disadvantaged children. Since its inception, WCC has supported over 26,000 children throughout the Central Coast and Hunter regions, addressing the needs of families facing extreme financial hardship, family violence, and other critical issues. Through generous community donations, WCC has re-homed over 803,000 items, saving more than 500 tonnes from landfill. Derryck has built a referral network of over 500 caseworkers from 120 social support agencies. His unassuming demeanour paired with relentless motivation inspires those around him. Derryck's vision and commitment to helping children in poverty have fostered a passionate team of over 120 volunteers who ensure that every child receives high-quality items. He has taken on various roles, from repairing cots to creating an online database, all while keeping costs low. Derryck's unwavering dedication makes a tangible impact in the fight against childhood poverty. His leadership and big-heartedness continually drive WCC’s mission to improve the lives of vulnerable children. 

Joint Volunteer Award Winner - Paul Mikkelsen
Paul Mikkelsen,a resident of East Gosford, is a true treasure of the Central Coast and a long-serving volunteer at Coast Shelter Community Centre. For over 22 years, he has made a significant impact by preparing meals, helping to provide lunch and dinner for those in need from Monday to Friday. Paul’s humble nature and calming presence bring joy to both volunteers and clients. He is incredibly reliable, arriving every Tuesday to volunteer and ensure that dinner preparations are ready before he leaves. Recently, he has focused on lunch services but continues to support our dinner program. In addition to his regular duties, Paul helps with Christmas meal preparations and assists with food rescue collections, providing essential ingredients for our community centre. His dedication shines through in everything he does, always with a smile and a friendly attitude. Paul is an integral part of the team, and his selflessness and generosity are deeply appreciated by staff, volunteers, and clients alike. 

Young Person Award Winner - Matilda Taylor
Matilda Taylor, a resident Noraville, is a dedicated firefighter with Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW), has made history by being appointed Deputy Captain at Toukley Fire Station at just 21 years old. This achievement positions her as the youngest Deputy Captain in both FRNSW history and at Toukley. Joining FRNSW in 2021 as an 18-year-old, Matilda quickly distinguished herself through her proactive attitude and eagerness for leadership roles. She has rapidly grown into a proficient firefighter and respected station leader, actively seeking additional responsibilities. Matilda's influence extends beyond her firefighting duties; she is also a mentor to her peers, recognised for her incident management skills. Her success serves as an inspiration to younger women in traditionally male-dominated fields, illustrating that dedication and perseverance can lead to significant leadership roles. In her own words, Matilda states that “It’s a privilege and a responsibility I don’t take lightly. I’m excited to learn as much as possible so I can better support my community.” Her commitment to community service drives her to create a sense of safety among those she serves. Matilda’s achievements highlight how ambition and hard work can inspire the next generation of leaders.

The Central Coast Council Australia Day Awards 2025 ceremony was held 23 January 2025 at the Art House, Wyong.