History
Aboriginal AFL player Adam Goodes has been named Australian of the Year for 2014
Mr Goodes, known for his youth advocacy work, was chosen from a diverse field of nominees representing the scientific and medical communities, the arts and community groups.
At a Parliament House reception on Saturday morning, Mr Abbott described them as representing the very best of Australia and indicative of the nation’s diversity.
“We have an amazing range of extraordinary, dedicated, committed, passionate, achieving people here in this courtyard this morning,” he said.
“Where else could you find an award where finalists include footballers, ballet dancers, cancer researchers, singers and songwriters?
“The genius and the wonder of our country is found in our people, in every part of our country, in every part of our life and you collectively reflect the very best of our country.”
The Australian of the Year Award recipients were selected from more than 3000 nominations submitted by the public.
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Mr Goodes, a two-time Brownlow Medal winner, holds an elite place in AFL history having won two premierships with the Sydney Swans.
The 34-year-old Andyamathanha man is also a four-time All-Australian, member of the Indigenous Team of the Century, and has represented Australia in the International Rules Series.
However, he is also seeking to make a difference for his people, particularly troubled youths, with whom he has worked in detention centres.
He runs a foundation with his cousin and former teammate Michael O’Loughlin which aims to assist young girls and boys to get an education and a job, and also promotes healthy lifestyles.
In 2013, Mr Goodes won recognition for his stance against racism after a “hurtful” incident at an AFL game where a Collingwood supporter – a 13-year-old girl – called him an “ape”.
It was closely followed by insulting comments by Collingwood president Eddie McGuire.
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