Thorne Harbour Awards 2024
18 Nov 2024
Announcing the recipients of our 2024 Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to the health and wellbeing of our LGBTIQ+ communities and people living with HIV.
President's Award
Tony Briffa, the world’s first and only openly intersex mayor was honoured with the President’s Award for her unwavering advocacy for the rights and health of people with innate variations of sex characteristics.
Tony’s tireless activism has challenged the medical establishment and advocated to governments for the right of intersex children to grow up with dignity, free from unnecessary medical interventions.
President Janet Jukes OAM
Life Memberships
Former Coordinator of the Catholic AIDS Ministry Marg Hayes was awarded Life Membership for her distinguished advocacy for people living with HIV. In her role, Marg was not focused on theological dogma, but on doing what was right for the individual.
President of Positive Life SA Kath Leane was also awarded Life Membership. She has been a powerful voice for the diverse HIV community, ensuring that the unique issues facing South Australians living with HIV are always front and centre at both local and national levels.
Kath's unwavering dedication alongside her close work with our SAMESH staff continues to make a profound difference in the lives of many in the community.
Vice-President Paul Kidd
Greig Friday Young Leader Award
The Greig Friday Young Leader Award went to Elvis Martin, an inspiring community leader and refugee migrant. Since arriving in Australia, Elvis has become a prominent advocate for LGBTIQ+ multicultural communities, serving on the board of Victorian Government’s LGBTIQ+ and Anti-Racism Taskforces.
Special Service Awards
We are thrilled to honour Kellie Greene for her exceptional contributions to SAMESH’s Poz Lunch, where her warmth, culinary talent, and dedication have created a welcoming space that fosters connection and community. Her inspiring volunteerism and compassionate approach have had a lasting impact, making her a true asset to the health and wellbeing of those she supports.
Sean Mulcahy and the Rainbow Local Government group are recognized for their tireless efforts to promote inclusivity within Victorian local governments, leading to a record number of openly Queer councillors in 2020. With their continued advocacy and renewed priorities for the 2024 elections, their work ensures that LGBTIQA+ voices are represented at all levels of government.
We proudly celebrate Angelo Todaro’s eight years of volunteer service with the Community Support program, where his dedication to transporting clients to medical appointments and supporting isolated individuals during COVID-19 has been invaluable. His compassionate care has brought comfort and connection to many in challenging times.
Marc Mendoza receives the Special Service Award for his tireless advocacy for the LGBTIQA+ and PLHIV communities. From leading events like Queer Ramadan to sharing his personal story on national media, Marc’s commitment to fostering awareness, support, and a vibrant volunteer community is both inspiring and deeply impactful.
Congratulations to these deserving winners. We thank them for their service to our communities.