There have been celebrations around the country today for our new Australian of the Year, actor Geoffrey Rush.
We congratulate him on his acceptance speech that placed the arts at the centre of Australian life and culture. He acknowledged the role of the First Australians, and said he was sure "that my colleagues will see this as an endorsement of our national story of creativity".
Senior Australian of the Year is Laurie Baymarrwangga, an extraordinary elder from the island of Murrungga in East Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory.
The Australian of the Year Awards were announced last night by the Prime Minister.
3 Comments
Comment on this articleDottie Winsor commented on
On my own opinion, I am really excited about the celebration of Australian of the Year. I think that everyone are also excited to know about the winner of the event. I know that everyone expect to win this contest.
Matt Lampard commented on
How old is Laurie Baymarrwangga the extraordinary elder from the island of Murrungga? I think there must be some reasons for her as senior of the Year.
Julie Dyson commented on
Laurie is in her 90s. See her profile at http://www.australianoftheyear.org.au/recipients/?m=laurie-baymarrwangga-2012