West Coast Spirit Award Recipients 2025

Published 26th January 2025

The West Coast Council is pleased to announce that the recipients of the 2025 Australia Day West Coast Spirit Awards are: Geoff Iliff, Tom Fearns, Wendy Harvey and Zeehan Golf Club Parkrun.

The successful recipients are recognized as valuable community members who give their time willingly to assist others. Awards will be presented at the Mt Lyell Strahan Picnic on Sunday 26 January by West Coast Mayor Shane Pitt.

Geoff Iliff, who has multiple volunteering roles, was nominated for being a “motivated volunteer, always available to assist with transporting our aged, vulnerable and needy clients all over Tasmania to attend medical appointments. His attitude to this service is nothing short of admirable and he values every client to the same degree and treats them with care and respect. It is people like Geoff who are the backbone of remote, regional areas. They fill the gaps left when population bases aren't significant enough to have all essential services within reasonable reach, especially to those in society who are disadvantaged.”

Tom Fearns was nominated for fostering inclusivity and connections in the Strahan community. “Tom is an inspirational role model. He leads by example in a challenging volunteer landscape where it can be difficult to encourage participation. His unwavering dedication and hands-on leadership inspires others to step up and contribute. Tom's passion for giving back is evident in his commitment to numerous fundraising events at the Strahan Golf Club, including his incredible effort for Cancer Council's The Longest Day, where he completed an epic 72 holes in a single day. Beyond the club, Tom continues to make a difference by volunteering with Strahan Primary School, teaching soccer skills to students and fostering a sense of community and teamwork among young people. His actions reflect his selflessness and drive to make a positive impact, making him a true role model for others.”

Wendy Harvey was nominated for her long-term involvement in volunteering and improving the quality of life for locals in Zeehan. “Wendy is at the Zeehan Neighbourhood Centre at opening 5 mornings a week and has been as long as I can remember in the 15 years I have been here. Firstly, she restocks the Community pantry then she moves onto the Op shop corner. Then it’s out the front to make sure the book exchange is full. Wendy is well known here in Zeehan and on the West Coast. No matter who they are, if they need something, Wendy will make sure they get it. From running meals and pantry food to peoples’ houses, to delivering clothing to Ops shops in the other towns, Wendy is always ready to help.”

Zeehan Golf Club Parkrun was nominated for fostering a sense of connection between local community members and visitors to the area and an overall positive attitude towards people’s health and wellbeing. Zeehan Golf Club parkrun is the only established event of its kind on the West Coast. “To witness people gain confidence in themselves and showing up each week for their mental and physical well-being and to feel good about themselves is certainly inspiring and it has shown that the volunteers have a sense of responsibility by offering their time to a fun, friendly and welcoming community event. We have had several Zeehan Primary School students attend and participate to gain additional points towards their Children’s Tasmanian University graduation each year. The Zeehan Golf Club parkrun has demonstrated a sense of belonging towards its volunteers and participants in a safe, encouraging and inviting environment and we are one of the 2,500 park runs to operate across the world.

Opportunity for Interview: Mayor Shane Pitt, 0419 899 667