DO you know an outstanding humanitarian?

You could help them further their good work by nominating them in the inaugural Fred Hollows Humanitarian of the Year.

The Fred Hollows Foundation is seeking the “Fred’s” in our community.

People who go above and beyond, are driven by their passion and make a very real difference to the lives of others – just as Fred Hollows did throughout his life.

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The Fred Awards celebrate people who care for others in a decent, practical and no-nonsense way, like Fred did.

The Awards are rooted in Fred’s character as a great Australian and his values of kindness, compassion and integrity.

Nominations are open Australia-wide until 11.59pm on Friday 23 July 2021.

The Fred Hollows 2021 Humanitarian will be chosen by Australians via public vote from a group of eight outstanding finalists.

A judging panel led by Gabi Hollows will shortlist the finalists.

In launching the Fred Awards, Gabi Hollows said she was looking for someone who goes out of their way to care for others and create a more egalitarian world.

“True humanitarians are everyday people who take the initiative to make the world around them a better place. Anyone can be a humanitarian,” Gabi said.

“More than ever, the past year has shown us the importance of people in their communities supporting each other.

“That’s everyday humanitarianism – something that Fred lived and breathed.

“Fred used to say he had great faith in the nature of the average Australian, and I think his faith was well-placed.

“Aussies have been our most generous supporters.

“We are a global charity, but one thing I’ll always be proud of is our heritage in Australia.

“I know Fred would be proud of this too,” she said.

Legendary Australian journalist Ray Martin, a long-time friend of Fred’s and The Foundation’s first Chair, said he was proud to join Gabi on the judging panel.

“I’ve met countless individuals in my time and Professor Fred Hollows was the consummate humanitarian.

He was one of those rare people who always thought of others much more than he thought of himself,” Ray said.

“I know that the spirit of Fred lives on right around Australia and there are people just like him getting on with it, doing great things in their communities.

“You don’t have to be a world-renowned eye surgeon restoring sight to people and leading an eye health revolution.

“I look forward to reading the nominations and selecting a bunch of worthy Australians to be recognised in Fred’s honour.”

News Of The Area is aware of at least one local who will be throwing their hat in the ring to apply for this prestigious and groundbreaking award – we will be sharing their story and the stories of other local nominees in the weeks to come, so if you know someone that should nominate please contact marian@newsofthearea.com.au so that we can share our local humanitarians stories with everyone.

The Fred Awards are an expansion of The Foundation’s annual Humanity Award, which recognises Year 6 students who follow in Fred’s footsteps by displaying kindness, compassion and integrity.

This year the two awards will run side by side.

To learn more about the Fred Awards and nominate someone, visit www.hollows.org/fredawards before 11.59pm, Friday 23 July 2021.

By Marian SAMPSON