Proudly supported by Youi, Community Champion celebrates the contribution of those that are making a difference or inspiring others.
There are so many in our community that volunteer and deserve recognition and a reward – how about a night out at the footy on us!
Nominate Below:
2025 Winners:
Round 2 | Sharon Hopkins
Sharon Hopkins has been a remarkable volunteer for the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge for the past 12 years. She actively engages her community in year-round volunteering activities, fostering meaningful support for the animal refuge.
Over the past decade, she has fostered over 500 animals and dedicated hundreds of hours to making a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable cats and dogs. Sharon’s pride in her work and relentless efforts to support the Sunshine Coast community are truly commendable.
Round 3 | Cristelle “CJ” Mulvogue
CJ is the vice president for Juniors at the Collingwood Park AFL footy club in Redbank Plains. CJ’s passion for footy shines through in her encouragement of children to be part of a team and all the work she does to facilitate a great footy experience.
CJ has either been nominated or nominated others every year that we have had Community Champion which not only shows the value of CJ’s contribution but also her regard for those that volunteer with her.
Round 6 | James O’Gorman
James has become a powerful force for connection and wellbeing across Brisbane’s inner north, especially for local men. Through his work with @mandown, he’s brought people together through weekly run clubs, basketball games, and footy matches building not just fitness, but real community.
In April, James and the Man Down crew hosted a Community Ball with over 160 guests, raising more than $8,000 for The Polished Man, supporting the fight to end violence against children. He’s also helped lead events like the World’s Greatest Shave and a charity Golf Day, rallying support and raising funds for meaningful causes.
James is a true leader, showing what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
Round 8 | Jack Johnson
This week, we’re proud to introduce Jack Johnson a dedicated leader, mentor, and true embodiment of service. With 11 years in the Australian Infantry, including a six-month deployment to Afghanistan and time spent instructing at the infantry school, Jack’s commitment to leadership, resilience, and selflessness shines through in everything he does. His passion for teaching has impacted countless individuals, both in the military and beyond, building a spirit of camaraderie and strength wherever he goes. From mentoring soldiers to pushing the Queensland Reds through pre-season training camps, Jack continues to lead by example with integrity and an unwavering sense of duty. We’re honoured to celebrate Jack and all that he brings to our community.
Round 10 | Lenny Warren
Lenny is a proud Quandamooka, Kanju, and Wuthathi man who has dedicated his life to supporting young mob through culture, sport, and community. Based in Brisbane for the past eight years, Lenny has played a vital role at Greater Springfield Storm, coaching from junior levels to leading the senior men’s team since its debut. Off the field, he works as a section supervisor at a youth detention centre, helping young people reconnect with culture and find positive pathways forward. For Lenny, footy is more than a game, it’s a tool for unity, resilience, and pride.
Round 12 | Eliza Batchelor
This week, we’re honoured to celebrate Eliza Batchelor, a shining example of generosity, compassion, and quiet strength in our community. Eliza volunteers her time with Look Good Feel Better, an organisation supporting cancer patients as they navigate the appearance-related side effects of treatment. Through workshops and one-on-one support, Eliza helps restore not only confidence, but dignity and joy during incredibly tough times.
Her dedication goes far beyond scheduled sessions, just recently, Eliza gave her time and talent to help a terminally ill woman prepare for her wedding, styling her wig, makeup, and nails for the special day. Acts like these speak volumes about who Eliza is: someone who gives without hesitation and leads with heart in everything she does.
Round 14 | James Moonie
We’re proud to celebrate James Moonie, a passionate educator and community leader who’s showing the next generation the power of purpose, perseverance, and mateship. James is currently leading a volunteer fundraising campaign for the Kokoda Challenge at the school he teaches at, inspiring his students to step up and support young people in need.
But James isn’t just raising awareness, he’s walking the talk. Alongside his student volunteers, he’ll be tackling a massive 48km trek through the Gold Coast hinterland, all to raise funds for the Kokoda Youth Foundation. Through this journey, James is not only promoting the value of giving back, but also encouraging a positive, healthy, and community-minded lifestyle.
Round 17 | Tim Low
The Round 17 Youi Community Champion was Tim Low!
We’re proud to recognise Tim Low, a selfless leader of Rally Forever, a weekly tennis program that fosters connection for people with mental disabilities. Whether he's supporting others through crises like Cyclone Alfred, mentoring local youth, or raising funds for the Heart Foundation, Tim leads with compassion and community spirit. He’s a true pillar of strength, showing us that giving back is the greatest win of all.
Round 19 | Kylie Mercer-Smith
This week, we’re proud to celebrate Kylie Mercer-Smith, a powerhouse of resilience, leadership, and community spirit. As President of Brisbane Softball Association and a Board Member of Softball Queensland, Kylie has gone above and beyond to support her sport and community, especially in the face of extreme adversity.
Following the devastating 2022 and 2025 floods that severely impacted both Downey Park and Carina facilities, Kylie has worked tirelessly, all while balancing a full-time job, to rebuild and restore these vital community hubs. Whether it’s applying for grants, replacing equipment, or simply showing up with unwavering determination, Kylie leads with heart, strength, and purpose. Her dedication to the game and the people behind it makes her a true Community Champion.
Round 22 | Kate Warhurst
This week, we’re honoured to recognise Kate Warhurst, a courageous and compassionate changemaker, and the founder of "It’s From Elsie". Fuelled by love, Kate created the foundation in memory of her daughter, Elsie, to support other families who have experienced the devastating loss of a baby or young child.
Through thoughtful care packages, connection, and grief support, "It’s From Elsie" ensures families know they are not alone. Kate has turned personal tragedy into a powerful movement of empathy, strength, and support, helping others navigate the unimaginable with compassion and community by their side.
