Bob Symons, Michael Pemberton, Stephen Edmonds and Christine Zambonetti finalists in COTAWA 2024 senior awards

Four Albany residents are in the running for Statewide seniors awards, with their nominations acknowledging their “exceptional dedication and commitment” to the community. Photographer Bob Symons and business stalwart Michael Pemberton are finalists for the Council on the Ageing WA’s senior of the year award and veteran wellbeing advocate Stephen Edmonds and elders advocate Christine Zambonetti up for seniors advocate for the year. Founder and president of photography groups ACE Camera Club and the disability-inclusive A-Team, Yakamia resident Bob Symons has dedicated more than 20 years to serving the community. Boasting more than 50 members, his group runs all-ability photography sessions, photo walks, excursions and advanced skills classes. Alongside his photography, Mr Symons assists with arts events that promote the inclusion of seniors and disabled people — such as Breaksea and Albany Light Opera’s Lets Shine — and serves on the City of Albany’s Access and Inclusion Working Group to help address community-wide access issues. Also, up for the coveted title is Michael Pemberton, former president of the Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry and vice-president of the Regional Chambers of Commerce of WA. During his leadership post at the ACCI, Mr Pemberton is credited with modernising operations, expanding the diversity of the board and improving the business awards. In later years Mr Pemberton created employment programs for Aboriginal workers in Katanning and continues to lead the Containers for Change schools recycling initiative. He oversees 24 Great Southern schools and has so far helped fundraise $182,000 from the program which also teaches students about the positive impact of recycling. Albany RSL’s Stephen Edmonds is in the running to win the title of senior advocate of the year for his volunteer efforts assisting struggling veterans and their families. Mr Edmonds is the only qualified wellbeing and compensation advocate in the Great Southern, collaborating with healthcare professionals to ensure veterans receive comprehensive support and respite. A former navy officer, Mr Edmonds recognised the need for increased support among veterans, war widows, families and carers in the region. He pursued qualifications and provides his services free of charge to meet the increased support. Christine Zambonetti is another local contender for senior advocate of the year, thanks to her tireless efforts upholding the rights of older members of society and raising awareness of elder abuse. Through her work with Advocare, Ms Zambonetti reaches isolated seniors to provide vital information, support, and connections to essential services while identifying gaps in the system for improvements. Also a volunteer paramedic, her passion for standing up for the marginalised and dedication to improving the lives of the elderly has led to increased access for support services in the Great Southern. Minister for Seniors and Ageing Don Punch encouraged people to celebrate the finalists. “These awards are a chance to celebrate the incredible efforts of older Western Australians and the people and organisations that support them,” he said. “Seniors across WA play a crucial role in our communities — whether through volunteering, mentoring or advocating for others. “These contributions, large and small, are enriching communities and lives across the State.” Seniors Week ran until Sunday.