Meet your Citizen of the Year, Dr Suzanne Cook

Moonee Valley residents giving back to our community have been celebrated at this year’s Neighbourhood Spirit Awards.

Winners of the annual awards were announced on Sunday, 23 March at Mediterranean Fiesta in Keilor East.

Among the recipients was anaesthetist and lifelong Girl Guide, Dr Suzanne Cook, who was named Moonee Valley Citizen of the Year for 2025.

Dr Cook first joined the Guides when she was seven years old. For the past 31 years, she’s been a Guides leader, supporting the development of countless girls and young women across the Moonee Valley district.

“[Guides] gave me so much: skills, knowledge and a sense of community,” Dr Cook said, noting that ‘service to others’ was one of the organisation’s core principles.

“As you grow up, you naturally want to be involved in your community and give back to your community.

“I want to give girls the opportunities I was given when I was growing up.”

Despite a demanding medical career, including frontline work during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Cook’s dedication to the Guides has never wavered. Under her watch, her Guides have gone on to perform their own community service, at events like Anzac Day and Tree Planting Day.

“In this age, where everything is online, Guides is the opposite of that: learning together, developing teamwork and leadership skills,” she said.

“Sometimes life is hard, and it’s this place where they can come and be themselves.”

Asked how it felt to be recognised for her lifetime of service, Dr Cook said: “Unexpected. Amazing. It’s just really nice to be recognised.”

A full list of Neighbourhood Spirit Award winners is below.

Presenting the awards on Sunday, Mayor Cr Ava Adams paid tribute to the winners and nominees.

“The Moonee Valley Neighbourhood Spirit Awards are an opportunity to thank those wonderful people who go above and beyond to improve the lives of others, and help make Moonee Valley an even better place to live, work and play.

"These incredible individuals, community groups and organisations make such a positive difference in our community – day in, day out.”

Neighbourhood Spirit Award winners

The Rotary Club of Flemington

A cornerstone of Moonee Valley for over 37 years, this group has provided our community with financial support totalling more than $1 million! That money has made possible everything from student scholarships to community programs and assistance for disadvantaged individuals. Their active involvement in community events like Carols in the Park and the Moonee Valley Festival, along with their ongoing support of local schools, community centres and sports clubs, demonstrates the Club’s deep commitment to enhancing the lives of Moonee Valley residents.

Glenbervie Stationeers

A dedicated group of volunteers who have transformed Glenbervie Station into a vibrant and welcoming community space, the Stationeers conduct regular planting sessions and community engagement to revitalise the station grounds, improving the experience of thousands of daily commuters. The Glenbervie Stationeers exemplify the positive impact that grassroots volunteerism can have on our public spaces.

Adrian McCormack

Adrian’s history of service to Moonee Valley spans more than two decades. As a former President of St Therese's Netball Club, Adrian played a crucial role in creating a welcoming environment for players of all ages, and championing the growth of men's netball. He serves as a committee member at Buckley Park Bowling Club, enhancing the club's facilities and fostering a vibrant community hub.

Tien Tran

Described by judges as a young person of great character and commitment, Tien is a dedicated member of the Moonee Valley Youth Advisory Mechanism. Passionate about improving the lives of young people in the community, Tien used her platform at the Western Region Youth Forum to advocate for increased mental health support within Moonee Valley. She actively engages with the community through initiatives like Youth Fest, gathering valuable insights into the needs and concerns of young people.

Logan Shield

Co-founder of Moonee Valley Sustainability, Logan has spearheaded numerous environmental initiatives, including Electrify Moonee Valley and the Resilient Buildings Collective. Logan actively engages with the community through events, advocacy campaigns, and practical projects like the Ascot Vale Little Free Pantry. His tireless work ethic inspires other residents to advocate for change, ultimately shaping council decisions about the sustainable future of Moonee Valley.

Dianna Konzag

As an active member of St Andrews Church, Dianna has provided invaluable support to parishioners through home visits, assistance with appointments, and the organisation of programs for children and the elderly. Dianna's contributions also include volunteer work at local aged care facilities and community programs like Mainly Music, which assists young children with movement, music and social skills.

Teresa Day

A dedicated environmental advocate and community leader, and a co-founder of Moonee Valley Sustainability, Teresa has spearheaded numerous initiatives, including the Electric Vehicle Festival. Through her leadership of the Glenbervie Stationeers, Teresa has led revegetation projects, fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

Raymond Issac

The Area Coordinator for Niddrie Neighbourhood Watch, Raymond actively contributes to the safety and well-being of Niddrie through his diligent organisation of the community safety group. Raymond keeps his neighbourhood up to date with regular newsletters, and forges strong relationships with residents, businesses, and the local police.