EACH year the Greater Shepparton Australia Day Awards recognises the contributions and efforts of many special individuals that enrich our region. A particular highlight of the awards is the recognition of our dedicated senior citizens, who have often devoted a lifetime to bettering their communities.
Vince Vincitorio, Greater Shepparton’s Senior Citizen of the Year, arrived from Italy in 1952. His strong community values, instilled from childhood, led him to a life of service. At 15, he became an interpreter, helping Italian immigrants find work. He served with the Tatura Fire Brigade and RSL, trained the Tatura Football Netball Club for 15 years (earning life membership), and supported local football leagues. A dedicated Lions Club member, he led fundraising efforts and built furniture for hospital patients. For 13 years, he was a breakfast announcer at One FM 98.5 (life member) and formed “The Larrakins” to entertain seniors and raise funds for charities. His and Rhonda’s open gardens also supported numerous causes. Vince was also Tatura’s Senior Citizen of the Year.
Multi-discipline cyclist Myles Higgins, Greater Shepparton’s Senior Sports Person of the Year, excels in road, time trial, cyclo-cross, gravel, marathon MTB, and Olympic cross country events at all levels. A member of several local cycling clubs, he contributes to race organization and maintenance. His achievements include national and international titles in MTB downhill, cross country and cyclo-cross, including a 1992 National Championship and a 2019 Oceania Continental Championship. A Vietnam Veteran and retired engineer, he supports school camps with bike maintenance programs and has cycled extensively through outback Australia. Myles inspires others to stay active and is also involved with the Australian Native Bonsai Club and Royal Flying Doctor Service fundraising.
In addition to these overall awards, Jeanette Doherty was Shepparton’s Senior Citizen of the Year, talented musician Graeme Brewer was honoured as Mooroopna’s Senior Citizen of the Year, Andrew Sands at Dookie, and passionate cricketer Alex Ranson was Tatura’s Senior Sports Person of the Year for 2025.
