Celebrating Moreton Bay community heroes at Australia Day Awards
Published 26 January 2025
Three outstanding locals have been honoured for improving the lives of others, and contributing to their communities, during the City of Moreton Bay 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Ultra-marathon runner Robert Hopkinson, was awarded Citizen of the Year and Emily Finn and Tracy Lech both won Mayor’s Community Spirit Awards.
Mayor Peter Flannery said there were many outstanding nominations that recognised the remarkable work going on in our communities.
“This award gives us the opportunity to celebrate the unsung heroes of Moreton Bay.
“Every day, locals are out and about supporting each other and it’s amazing to see their dedication to bringing our diverse communities together.
“Through volunteering, raising money for charity and providing much-needed support, each of the winners have connected with residents and contributed to building City of Moreton Bay’s strong and vibrant communities.
“It’s a privilege to recognise Robert Hopkins with the Citizen of the Year award, celebrating his dedication to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle through his local run club. His commitment to inclusivity has created a supportive and dependable environment for all members.
“Robert has raised over $230,000 for multiple charities, including a donation of $132,000 to Small Steps for Hannah.
“It was also a great honour to announce our two recipients of the Mayor’s Community Spirit Award - Emily Finn and Tracy Lech.
“Emily has been honoured for her tireless work around inclusion of people with disabilities in sport and her dedication to the sport of Boccia including at an international level.
“Tracy is to be applauded for establishing the Salt No Limits charity which has supported children and young people on the Peninsula experiencing disadvantage for more than 20 years.
“Both women are driven by a genuine desire to help those around them. Through years of devotion to improving the lives of City of Moreton Bay individuals, they embody the vibrant, strong and compassionate spirit of their communities.
“Recognising initiatives and generous people, like our award recipients, highlights the inspiration, dedication and selflessness that drives our City of Moreton Bay towards a healthier, more inclusive and better future.
“Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and our award winners.
For more information on City of Moreton Bay’s Australia Day Awards and to watch the videos of the 2025 Australia Day Award winners, visit Council’s website.
AWARD WINNERS:
Robert Hopkinson is an ultra-marathon runner from Eatons Hill who established ‘Run with Rob 11 years ago, a rapidly growing local running club with over 150 members. Fostering a supportive community of “Robbers,” Robert welcomes and trains people of all abilities, creating a safe and inclusive environment for members to stay healthy and active. The Run with Rob club has raised over $230,000 through sponsorships, coaching fees, charity events, and an annual gala dinner. Robert also supports various charities, primarily Small Steps for Hannah, along with A Brave Life, Dunga Derby, Black Dog Institute, and Delta Therapy Dogs. He has donated $132,000 to Small Steps for Hannah alone. Robert Hopkins not only motivates his community but also inspires all of Moreton Bay to lead with inclusivity and selflessness to create a healthy lifestyle.
Emily Finn, of Narangba promotes inclusion of individuals with disabilities through her dedication to Boccia and other sports for people with a disability. As the Moreton Bay Boccia Program’s coach, she has ardently supported participation in sport and developing the skills of athletes. She led the Australian team at the 2023 World Dwarf Games in Germany, helping them achieve medals and personal bests. She has also acted as Head Coach for Queensland Boccia in 2022 and 2023, while organising national Boccia titles, state competitions, and five Tri Series events. Despite personal health struggles, disability, and funding challenges, Emily tirelessly gives back to her community to ensure they are always achieving their best.
Tracy Lech established Salt No Limits Inc over twenty years ago in Redcliffe as a not-for-profit charity to support children and young people experiencing disadvantage on the Peninsula. She has assisted thousands of school-aged children through various volunteer-run programs and weekly sports. She ensures that all activities promote social inclusion, belonging, healthy choices, and wellbeing. Tracy provides opportunities that some of these young people may not have access to in their everyday lives. Salt Café is a hub that fosters connection and community, offering volunteer and training opportunities, activities and workshops. Profits from Salt go toward the funding of more youth programs. This contribution to the Peninsula proves that Tracy’s spirit and legacy is a pillar of strength in her community.