A passionate advocate for mental health in regional South Australia has taken out the state’s highest honour at the 2025 SA Volunteer Awards, celebrated last night at the National Wine Centre.
Danica Gates, founder of the Beacon of Hope suicide prevention network in Tumby Bay, received the prestigious Joy Noble Medal, South Australia’s top accolade for individual volunteer service.
Following the tragic loss of her brother in 2016, Danica turned her grief into purpose, leading a grassroots movement that’s now a lifeline for many in the Eyre Peninsula community.
Her work was the emotional highlight of the night, which marked 20 years of the SA Volunteer Awards, a tradition that continues to spotlight the powerful role volunteers play in shaping our state.
Hosted by the Department of Human Services and presented by Minister Nat Cook, the evening honoured five incredible winners across a range of categories, each one proving that giving back never goes out of style.
The Andamooka Community Project Award went to the Chihuly in the Botanic Gardens volunteer team, whose dedication helped bring a world-class glass art exhibition to life, drawing thousands of visitors and contributing a serious boost to local tourism. With more than 250 volunteers clocking over 10,000 hours, the project was a glowing success.
Rising star Lucy Stevens received the Young Volunteer Award for her long-standing work with The Smith Family and her leadership in youth development, Indigenous reconciliation and social justice, both locally and on global platforms.
Ryan Simms, from the Botanic Garden and State Herbarium, took home the Excellence in Volunteer Management Award for his behind-the-scenes magic coordinating the Chihuly exhibition, expanding volunteer engagement, and creating an unforgettable visitor experience.
Rounding out the honours, Virtual School Australia – a for-profit platform powered by volunteers – was recognised with the Premier’s Award for Corporate Responsibility for its vital role in delivering free online education throughout the pandemic and beyond.
The ceremony also marked the official unveiling of the Volunteer Strategy Action Plan 2025–2027, a forward-thinking roadmap set to elevate the profile and impact of volunteering across South Australia.
Human Services Minister Nat Cook said the awards are a heartfelt tribute to those who uplift their communities through service:
“These awards shine a light on the people behind the scenes who make a real difference — not for praise, but because they care.”
Volunteering SA&NT CEO Hamilton Calder echoed the sentiment:
“It’s a beautiful reminder of what makes South Australia special — our people, our passion, and our power to create change through community.”
With stories of resilience, leadership and compassion at the core, this year’s SA Volunteer Awards were a powerful celebration of the volunteers who keep South Australia moving forward.
For more info on the awards, click here.
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