People living with disability, who are giving back to the community, were recognised at this year’s Shine On Awards hosted by the Rotary Club of Southern Districts.
More than 65 guests attended the annual event, which celebrated four recipients for their contribution through volunteering, advocacy, mentoring and community involvement.
This year’s recipients were David Kirk, Brian Zaw, Beau Potter and Cara Gilkison.
Rotary Club of Southern Districts member Phil Cordery said the awards were created to recognise people whose efforts often go unnoticed.
“The Shine On Awards were inspired by a simple and powerful idea that many people living with disability quietly make extraordinary contributions to their communities, yet are rarely recognised,” he said.
“As a Rotary club deeply embedded in the City of Gosnells, we saw an opportunity to shine a light on these individuals, celebrating ability, resilience and service rather than limitation.”
The awards have now been running for 14 years, as Mr Cordery said the Rotary Club of Southern Districts was the only Rotary club in Western Australia running an award program of its kind.
He said the goal was not only to celebrate recipients, but also to encourage inclusion and challenge perceptions around disability.
“Too often, the narrative around disability focuses on challenges rather than contributions,” he said.
“By recognising people who are actively giving back, we help shift that narrative — highlighting capability, leadership and generosity.”
Community members, organisations, friends and families can nominate people of any age from any area.
Mr Cordery said recipients were selected based on their contribution, impact and the inspiration they provide to others.
“Just as importantly, the awards aim to challenge perceptions, promote inclusion, and highlight the positive impact these individuals have across all areas of community life,” he said.
“Recipients and their nominators speak about what the recognition means to them.”
David Kirk was nominated by Ruby’s Cafe Como, which employs several people living with disability.
Cara Gilkison and Brian Zaw were nominated by VisAbility Group Victoria Park and recognised for their achievements within the organisation and wider community.
VisAbility has been a long-time supporter of the Shine On Awards.
Beau Potter, nominated by Como Rotary Club, was recognised for his involvement with Perform Act Dance WA, which runs dance classes for wheelchair users.
Guests were also treated to a 10-minute dance performance by Mr Potter during the evening.
Entertainment included performances from blind singer Ritchell Lim and the VisAbility band Grand Delusions, whose members are blind or have limited vision.
Former Thornlie MLA Chris Tallentire, also a long-time supporter of the awards, assisted with presentations on the night.
Mr Cordery said the response from the community had been positive.
“Many attendees commented on how inspiring the event was and how important it is that their stories are told,” he said.
The Rotary Club of Southern Districts plans to continue the awards and explore ways to expand community involvement and participation in future years.
