Celebrating inspiring lives and lasting impact
Published on 31 October 2025
Twenty-four inspiring individuals and groups were celebrated at last week’s Every Generation Onkaparinga Awards ceremony, for making ageing a positive, active and connected experience for people in the community.
More than 100 people gathered at Jimmy Deane's, South Adelaide Football Club to honour the record-breaking 24 nominees, with one winner in each category receiving extra commendation for their outstanding impact.
Two lifetime recognition awards were also bestowed, while the awards night also offered the chance to present 2 other inspiring individuals with Ray Gilbert Awards for Excellence – after their nominations were endorsed by Council in September.
Read on below to find out about the winners and learn more about the other nominees at the council’s website. Got someone in your community who you think should be recognised? Keep an eye out for when next year's award nominations open at the website and the council's Facebook page.
2025 Intergenerational Winner – Grandbuddies
What started as a classroom inquiry into ageing and loneliness has grown into a vibrant, student-led program linking Pilgrim School students with senior members of Seeds Church – a heartwarming example of community, curiosity and care in action in Aberfoyle Park.
Interactions have extended beyond sessions, with seniors attending school musicals and children performing Nativity plays for their grandbuddies.
By challenging age stereotypes and fostering mutual respect, Grandbuddies proves that meaningful intergenerational connection is both possible and powerful.
The Intergenerational Award category recognises those who bring the generations together, reduce ageism and demonstrate the value of intergenerational connection.
2025 Group Winner – The Willunga Basin Trail Inc
For more than a decade, volunteers from Willunga Basin Trail Inc have poured more than 10,000 hours into creating and caring for a 130km walking trail that showcases the region’s natural beauty.
Their dedication has not only built a world-class trail, but also fostered fitness, friendship, and community pride across generations.
The Group Award category recognises groups that have a clear and positive impact by supporting older people to be active, engaged and purposeful members of the Onkaparinga community.
2025 Individual Winner – Peter Symons
A member of Aldinga Bay Surf Life Saving Club since 1978, Peter has saved lives, trained generations and built community spirit.
His latest achievement – the Silver Salties program – has grown from 3 to 52 members, giving older residents a safe, fun way to stay active, social and connected.
The Individual Award category recognises individuals who have provided outstanding service to positive ageing. These are people who don’t let age define them and remain actively involved in improving life better for themselves and everyone around them.
Lifetime recognition
Two individuals were also honoured with lifetime recognition awards for their contributions.
Laurel Jared’s lifelong dedication to her community inspires all generations through many different types of leadership and service from Girl Guides to the Uniting Church, the Historic Hall, and JP services. Her warmth, energy and selfless commitment make her a beloved role model.
Eileen MacGreavy has been the heart of her parish for more than 6 decades, faithfully serving in every role. Her boundless energy and optimism make her a shining role model, proving that age is no barrier to service or community connection.
Ray Gilbert Award for Excellence
The Every Generation Onkaparinga Awards night also provided an opportunity to present the Ray Gilbert Award for Excellence to 2 outstanding individuals, whose nominations were endorsed by Council in September.
The awards – previously known as the City of Onkaparinga Excellence Awards – are the council’s second-most prestigious award after the Key to the City and Freedom of the City, and they’re presented to individuals who have made a significant contribution or delivered additional benefit to the city.
There’s no set timing for the nomination of the award – rather it’s triggered by the achievement of an individual or group and receipt of a nomination by the mayor. The most recent previous awards were presented in 2017.
Dean Rowe was presented with his 2025 award for, among other things, his fundraising, leadership and generosity while honouring his late wife through Judith’s Legacy – which raises awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research.
Vicky Rowland-Knapman was presented with her 2025 award for, among other things, developing the Christies Beach Baptist Church’s Southern Adelaide Family Enrichment Centre (SAFE Centre), first as a volunteer and then chief executive.