Fifty over 50

Dolly Parton

It may seem out of character for larger than-life country star Dolly Parton to know her way around a kitchen, but the 78-year-old Tennessee native has actually had a long love affair with food and released her first cookbook, Dolly’s Dixie Fixin’s, back in 2006. That book featured 125 recipes from her childhood, family members – she is one of 12 siblings – her theme park Dollywood and her travels. 

This year she’s brought out her second cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’ (named for the Hank Williams song Hey, Good Lookin’), highlighting her favourite family dishes and co-written with her younger sister Rachel, the executive director of her company and a singer, actor and songwriter in her own right. 

“God, family, music and food are the staples of my life,” Dolly writes in the book. “My sister Rachel and I come from a long line of great cooks – our Mama, our grandmothers, our aunts, cousins and so on.

“Our recipes are a reflection of who we are,” she adds. “There are some we grew up with and others we discovered in our adult lives and on travels, and some shared with us by friends or family.”

Gardening trends and tips for 2025

If you are making resolutions for the new year, don’t leave the garden out of your goals. Having a clear vision can improve your planting and design decisions, and make your outdoor spaces the best they can be, our experts explain.

With one in six Australians now living in apartments or townhouses, there’s little wonder more people want to bring a bit of the greenery they may be missing from lawns or backyards into their home. “Urban spaces are becoming smaller, so we’ll be looking this year to extend living spaces outdoors and to bring the outdoors in,” says architect, interior designer and gardener Jason Chongue. 

His big tip? “Use a series of potted plants to guide your view from indoors to outside. You can achieve this by using a ground cover, like maidenhair vine, that can grow both indoors and outdoors and will help to thread your spaces together seamlessly. Simply plant the vine below plants outside, as well as underplanting some of your indoor plants in the soil in their pots.”

But the trend is not limited to smaller dwellings. Horticulturist and Gardening Australia presenter Tammy Huynh believes people want to spend more time in their backyards. “People want to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still having access to the comforts of indoor spaces.”

She recommends equipping your outdoor living area with smart lighting and outdoor speakers, which can be discreetly integrated into the landscape.

Living with grandparent grief

With birth rates falling, increasing numbers of older people will miss out on becoming grandparents, giving rise to some complicated emotions. We explore what it’s like to confront this often unacknowledged form of loss.

When Debbie got married, motherhood was always going to be the next step. “I didn’t put any thought into it, it was just what was expected by society and family,” the 66-year-old Sydneysider recalls. Happily, she fell pregnant easily and took great joy in her role as a mother. As her son and daughter grew up, she assumed grandmotherhood would happen just as naturally, but eight years ago, her daughter, now 38, sat Debbie down to share some shocking news: she and her husband had chosen not to have children. 

“I just thought it was a phase, and that it would blow over. Then I thought as her friends had children, she’d want to do the same. But no, that didn’t sway them at all,” says Debbie, who hasn’t used her real name here, nor shared her surname, for fear of upsetting her children. Initially she tried to challenge her daughter – “I was quite blunt with her” – but when it became clear the couple were resolute about remaining child-free, crushing disappointment set in. 

Although Debbie has a 34-year-old son, he is single and has shown no inclination towards parenthood, leaving her struggling to accept that the place in her heart reserved for grandchildren may never be filled. “You can respect your children’s choices, but there is also sadness for yourself,” says Debbie.

Regret-free retirement

Retirement, like the rest of life, doesn’t come with a manual. It also happens to be complicated. So it’s really no surprise that many retirees make mistakes along the way. Whether it’s losing out on opportunities to grow superannuation in the final years of employment or missing out on life experiences for fear of running out of money, it’s not unusual for Australians to utter, “I wish I had known that sooner” when it comes to retirement. 

“One of the biggest mistakes over 50s make is to simply do nothing until it’s too late,” says financial adviser Helen Baker, founder of the On Your Own Two Feet financial advisory service and author of a series of books by the same name. “There are some opportunities that we can’t pull back,” she says. 

Take the example of her clients, David and Megan (names changed). They had been busy living life until their 60s crept up on them and they realised they didn’t have enough super to retire on. The problem was, David had just reached the point where he realised he “was done”, and didn’t have the energy to work anymore. Prior to this, they just “felt young”, Helen says. “So they hadn’t really thought that much about retirement.” David had been earning a high income but Megan hadn’t been working and had no super. Had they started planning for retirement earlier, David might have been able to explore the option of making voluntary spouse contributions. 

“There’s also my favourite piece of legislation, which is called the catch up legislation,” Helen says. “That allows you to go back, and if you have under $500,000 of super, and you haven’t met your cap in the previous five years, you can rebuild that cap.”

Trusting your gut

Australian celebrity chef Tobie Puttock is such close friends with British cooking star Jamie Oliver that he calls him “my brother from another mother”. The pair met when they worked together at landmark London restaurant The River Cafe in the late 1990s, and Tobie, now 50, went on to help Jamie launch his famous Fifteen restaurants in London and Melbourne. 

Since then Tobie, who is based in Melbourne with his wife Georgia and their daughter Birdie, has written five cookbooks and made a string of TV appearances, including on Jamie’s Kitchen and My Kitchen Rules. But as he tells host James Valentine on the fifth season of the award-winning podcast from Australian Seniors, Life’s Booming: Is This Normal?, one of his key missions is to get the balance right between great tasting food and healthy eating – benefiting the gut at the same time.

“Being in food for my career, with my whole life revolving around food, I see things jumping in and out of fashion and gut health has been a huge, fashionable topic for a long time,” says Tobie. But now he’s seen it move beyond fashion or fad into the realm of fact. “People accept that your gut is super important and eating the right foods and gut health really can make a huge difference to your life.”

His interest in gut health is personal, dating back to the time when he first got together with Georgia. “My wife, when we first met, was very controlled by her stomach issues, all tied in with the gut. She had food poisoning when she was younger so badly she was hospitalised for a few days (not from my cooking – I didn’t know her at this stage!) and it really screwed her gut up."

Healthy competition

When she is working out at her local gym, running through the park on a Sunday or competing in a sporting event, people often approach Sharon Chadwick to say how amazed they are at her strength, her speed and her skill. It took her aback at first, but now she has become used to their compliments. 

“But the best thing is when they come up and say they thought they couldn’t do something, then they saw me do it, and decided to have a go,” laughs Sharon. “And often they’ve surprised even themselves by being able to do it. That’s the best feeling!” 

For Sharon is no ordinary athlete. For a start, she was told at the age of 18, after a terrible car accident, that she’d never walk again. But today, at the age of 73, she’s running, jumping, lifting huge weights and pulling many more, and along the way smashing many of her own fitness goals – as well as the expectations of others. 

“I hear a lot of people, often much younger than me, making all sorts of excuses for not exercising,” says Melbourne-based Sharon, who has become one of the oldest Australian participants in the global indoor fitness competition Hyrox, which involves a combination of running and workout station activities, like rowing and kettleball carrying.

“They say they’ve got something wrong with them, and they can’t do things. But you have to keep fit and active. “I’ve got arthritis in my hands and in my right hip, but you just keep going and strengthen your bones and push through it. I think I’m getting stronger every day and I’ll carry on as long as I can. Even if, later, I’m in a wheelchair, I’ll take up something like wheelchair basketball!”.

Cameron Daddo

With a life and career dotted by many wonderful highs and several soul-searching lows, Cameron Daddo, 59, knows a thing or two about battles with confidence – enough to fill a book, even. Reflecting on the challenges that have led him to this point, he tells DARE he wouldn’t have it any other way.

To look at him you would think Cameron Daddo is the picture of self-confidence. Tanned from golf, open-water swimming and surfing, with a neatly trimmed beard and easy smile, that cheeky glint in his eye is still as endearing as when he first hosted Perfect Match back in the 1980s. Living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and happily married to model turned podcaster and author Alison Brahe-Daddo, his wife of 33 years, they share three grown children, who are healthy and following their dreams. And with 40 years’ experience in the acting, modelling and TV hosting game – including a 25-year stint in Hollywood – Cameron is now a seven-night-a-week DJ on Smooth FM and co-host of Foxtel’s Luxury Escapes, fabulously spending his time jet setting around the globe. So what’s not to be confident about?

Well, as far back as he can recall, Cameron – “Cam” to his mates – reveals he has had low times, considering himself a “fraud as an actor” privately, while publicly accepting two Logies for his performances, experiencing lean years as a Hollywood hopeful and having to weather family crises that were played out in the media. Yet throughout it all, he’s discovered there is power in persistence.

Rachel Ward, 66

When the notorious 2019 bushfires tore through the Nambucca Valley in NSW, just near actress and director Rachel’s family farm, she knew it was time to act. “It was a wake-up call that we’re in a serious climate challenge – what was I doing to ameliorate that?” she tells DARE. And so began her journey into regenerative farming, which, she says, “felt like an answer”.  

The practice aims to restore ecosystems, focusing on soil health, sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, boosting biodiversity and improving water management. It’s also about caring where your food comes from. As Rachel absorbed regenerative farming, she was able to put it into action on her farm, a beloved second home for her husband, actor Bryan Brown, their three children and grandchildren. And she’s had great success, creating a landscape that’s now humming with beneficial critters, abundant grasses and thriving livestock.  

Her progress was followed in a documentary, Rachel’s Farm, and she hopes to launch a paddock-to-plate business to help consumers make food decisions that benefit the environment. “I think I’m most proud of bringing environmental health back to this little pocket of land,” says Rachel. “It’s very purposeful to be on this path of finding something very positive and active to turn things around climate-wise.” 

Kieran Perkins, 50

When Australian Olympic swimmer Kieren had his first swimming lesson at school, he admits he wasn’t very good. But he enjoyed it so much, he carried on. The rest is history. “As my career went on, I chased gold medals,” he told education leaders last year. “And that’s what I’m still doing today as CEO of the Australian Sports Commission. I’m chasing gold-medal standards across the entire sports industry, from grassroots to the pinnacle of elite competition.” 

Kieren, who retired from swimming in 2000 after setting 11 world records, is now streaking ahead in the pursuit of excellence for all sportspeople Australia-wide – starting with children. “Green and gold success on the world stage is important to our national psyche,” he says. “But without a massive base of participants involved in fun, engaging activities, developing skills and a love of sport, it all falls apart.” 

His new vision is hinged on the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a program of major events on home soil that will showcase the very best of sport. “The runway to 2032 is a gift for this generation,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to unite, inspire and build the nation through sport.” 

Louise Sauvage, 50

As one of Australia’s most decorated Paralympians, Louise hasn’t put on the brakes since competing in her first IPC Athletics World Championships at the age of 16. Does she remember winning her first gold? “It feels like a long time ago – 32 years ago, at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics,” she tells DARE with a laugh.  

Louise dominated wheelchair racing for over a decade, raising the profile of Paralympic sport and scooping up multiple medals throughout her career. She retired after the Athens Paralympics in 2004 and switched to coaching young athletes, such as Madison de Rozario. “I’m probably just as competitive as I was,” she says. “But going from being an athlete to the other side as a coach is very different. You’re part of someone else’s journey, which is a big buzz for me. We’re working hard for the upcoming Paris Paralympics 2024 in August.” 

Enjoying this chapter of her career, Louise believes sporting ‘veterans’ have an important role to play in guiding rising stars. “They have a knowledge and perspective and history we can take and learn from. And that’s so important for younger athletes, to know where their sport came from and who’s come before them.” 

Professor Peter Hannaford, 84

As a child, Professor Hannaford was curious about everything and anything. Today, more than eight decades on, he is acknowledged as an award-winning global expert in his field of experimental science. “I don’t know the ‘r’ word; there’s no such thing as retirement,” he tells DARE. “I’ll always maintain an interest in science, whatever happens.” 

His work covers the length and breadth of time and space, researching chemical physics at the CSIRO for 24 years, before moving to Swinburne University of Technology in 2001 to become director of the Centre for Atom Optics and Ultrafast Spectroscopy. He remains professor emeritus at the university, and was made a Companion of the Order of Australia last year for his eminent service to science.  

Professor Hannaford has developed novel laser techniques and been involved in pioneering their application to search for mineral deposits beneath the earth’s surface and create atomic clocks that measure time with breathtaking precision – critical for synchronising activities in space. He’s currently working on ways to produce a quantum computer that, instead of processing information in space, does it in time. In-between, the professor still travels the world lecturing, speaking at conferences, and inspiring young scientists. “I love that,” he says. “It makes me feel I’m still young.” 

Judith Neilson, 78

Although Judith’s name has long been linked with art, her passion for global philanthropy is equally impressive. The Zimbabwe-born owner of Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery has invested vast sums of money into humanitarian causes, aiming to improve economic inequality in vulnerable communities in Australia and Africa. Among the causes she supports are Amnesty International, Operation Smile Australia and Ampilatwatja Health Centre Aboriginal Corporation, which provides healthcare to First Nations people in the Northern Territory. 

She also funds University of NSW research into innovative housing options for people displaced by natural disasters and conflict. “I believe anybody that is able to have a home, should be able to have one. I don’t believe that if you’re poor you should have a lesser home than somebody who’s rich,” Judith says. 

The focus of her philanthropy is helping communities become stronger. “We came here from Africa with nothing, and this country has been really good to us,” she says. “I feel very strongly about contributing to a greater culture of philanthropy in Australia, and there’s a big element of luck in being wealthy – I believe people have a responsibility to give back.” 

Brian Triglone, 78

Eight years ago, Brian watched a YouTube video of the Giving Voice Chorus, an American choir for people living with dementia. Having already drawn on his lifelong love of music to conduct community choirs, he was inspired to found a similar group in Canberra. “Alchemy Chorus is a dementia-inclusive community choir that is designed both for people living with dementia, their partner/relative or close friend, and volunteer singers,” he tells DARE.  

Alchemy Chorus has been a resounding success, sparking an alliance of similar choirs around Australia. “My initial goal was to bring some joy into the lives of couples impacted by dementia,” says Brian. “Studies have shown that musical memory remains well into the dementia journey, and is therefore something that couples can enjoy together in a non-judgemental, understanding environment when other social contacts start to diminish. Our choir members say that it’s the best day of the week.” 

Regular performance helps reinforce the importance of social inclusion, and shows that life needn’t stop with a diagnosis, says Brian, who was the 2023 ACT Senior Australian of the Year nominee. “Our concerts are a highlight and a great source of pride. There’s no greater feeling of satisfaction than to see smiling faces all around when we nail a song.” 

Professor Tom Calma, 70

When the referendum for the Voice to Parliament was defeated last October, many were disappointed, including Professor Calma, Aboriginal Elder and co-author of the Voice blueprint. But the Darwin-born social justice campaigner, a man who’s spent nearly half a century pushing for the rights, responsibilities and welfare of Indigenous people, believes we’ve got to have faith in the future – and the reconciliation efforts to come. 

“I’ve always been and always will be a glass-half-full person – I think the future is bright for our next tranche of leaders,” says Professor Calma, who retired in 2010 after a distinguished career in the Australian public service to work as a consultant, volunteer and academic. 
The 2023 Senior Australian of the Year and chancellor of the University of Canberra was appointed to the government’s Aged Care Taskforce last year, which aims to develop aged care options that are fair and equitable for all Australians. A member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, he also works to support older people in accessing culturally safe aged care. “It’s about creating empathy and respect so people can understand their treatment, medications and care that they can expect,” Professor Calma explains. 

Layne Beachley, 52

A seven-time world champion, Layne is widely regarded as the most successful female surfer in history, with a talent that shook up the male-dominated sport forever. Since her retirement in 2008, she has been inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (she was elevated to Legend status last year), and in 2023 became the first female patron of Surfing Australia, having stepped down as its chair after eight years in the role. She’s also fought for equality, supporting and mentoring young women to fulfil their potential. 

“There are many people out there who will tell you that you can’t,” she said last year. “What you must do is turn around and say, ‘Watch me’. When you’re clear on your own values, you live a life according to your own purpose. You’re no longer waiting for other people’s opinions or decisions to determine which direction you head in.” 

Layne remains passionate about helping others design a life they love, and has a new self-empowerment platform, Awake Academy. “I’m so excited for 2024 and all the exciting projects I have in the pipeline,” says Layne. “There is so much to look forward to.” 

Dr Alan Finkel, 71

Dr Finkel is hopeful that a clean energy future is within Australia’s grasp. And his latest book, Powering Up: Unleashing the Clean Energy Supply Chain, suggests how it can be done. The former Australian chief scientist is a neuroscientist, engineer, researcher, entrepreneur and policy adviser. He’s made an enormous contribution to the country’s knowledge base on energy, leading a review of Australia’s electricity market, developing the National Hydrogen Strategy and advising the government on the national Low Emissions Technology Roadmap.  

“In the pursuit of a zero-emissions future, nothing is more important than the energy system, currently responsible for nearly three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions,” he tells DARE. “If we invest in new clean technologies, the old high-emission technologies will become obsolete and disappear. The investment is huge, the commitment must be unwavering, but the pathway is clear.” 

He describes the shift to clean energy as “the most difficult economic transition in human society since the dawn of agriculture”. Yet he can see a way forward. “A low-emissions future is within our grasp as long as we all accept the need to compromise, so that the pursuit of perfection does not get in the way of the very good.” 

Alan Schwartz, 71

Entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist Alan spent some 30 years creating, acquiring and managing businesses across a diverse range of industries, including publishing, property, professional services and software. Underlying his passion for business is what he describes as “a deep commitment to family and community”, and an interest in the not-for-profit sector.  

Among a long list of successful projects is his contribution to the creation of Jewish Care – a merger of Jewish Community Services and Montefiore Homes – and his role as its inaugural president. Alan was also chair of Philanthropy Australia from 2014-2019. In 2004, Alan and his wife Carol established the Trawalla Foundation as a vehicle for the philanthropic activities of the Schwartz family, focusing on projects including gender equality, creativity, sustainability and social justice.  

He now describes his professional life as having transitioned from “entrepreneur and business builder” to “active investor, philanthropist and social activist”. His efforts were rewarded last year when he was awarded Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic endeavours, and to sustainable social benefit initiatives. And while he welcomed the recognition for his hard work, Alan says, “Community work is reward in itself.” 

Jack Hamilton, 83

Volunteers tend to work behind the scenes, and some, like Jack, give years of their life to helping others. In fact, Jack was recognised last year with the Northern Territory Chief Minister’s Volunteer of the Year Award for 38 years as the face of Northern Territory Legacy, an organisation supporting the partners and children of those who gave their lives or their health for our country. 

“It’s nice to be recognised,” he tells DARE. “I spent 36 years in the army and lost a few of my very close friends, and I supported those families as best I could. Then I joined Legacy and continued to do it – it’s been some of the most important work I’ve done.”  

For Jack, that means making sure beneficiaries are catered for in the absence of a spouse or parent. He’s also done countless fundraising and guided new volunteers through the Legacy ranks. And while he’ll still be knocking about NT Legacy HQ, he says he is scaling down. “I’m keen to spend more time with the family and with my wife – we realised we haven’t seen a lot of Australia, so we’ve got a trip to plan!” 

Dr Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann, 70s

Teacher, artist and respected Elder, Dr Ungunmerr Baumann has dedicated her life to educating children and helping them connect with their culture. In 1975 she became the Northern Territory’s first fully-qualified Aboriginal teacher, and has been a support to the community through her long-term work with St Francis Xavier Catholic School on the Daly River, 250km south of Darwin. It’s here that she was a teacher then principal, before being appointed to the federal government’s National Indigenous Council. In 2013 she established the Miriam Rose Foundation to bridge the divide between Aboriginal culture and mainstream society.  

“Being an educator is my proudest achievement because we integrated cultural education, which continually helped and taught our young people about the traditions, identity and their stories,” Dr Ungunmerr Baumann tells DARE. Today, the 2021 Senior Australian of the Year continues to support the school community in Daly River, acting as a “leaning post for everyone who needs support and guidance in educating our children”. 

“I continue working closely with the local school and teachers who come to us as guests on our country, helping them build a strong relationship with our local teachers and together they build a strong future for our students who grow and learn.” 

Valmai ‘Val’ Dempsey, 73

“Aunty Val”, as she is widely known, has now retired from her job as a nurse, but her lifelong commitment to caring for the community shows no signs of wavering. She joined St John Ambulance as a cadet in primary school, and having notched up more than 50 years of service, she is now one of the ACT’s longest-serving volunteers. Her responsibilities have included teaching first aid, mentoring children and advocating for the welfare of first responders. She also played a major role in coordinating St John’s response to the Black Summer fires and the pandemic.  

“I don’t suppose that the heart ever grows tired of being in that role,” she tells DARE. “You get out of the house, you get to meet people, you have a challenge, you get to share your knowledge, you get to learn more things – I learn something every time I go out.” 

Val’s community service saw her awarded Senior Australian of the Year in 2022, and she was chosen to represent Australia at the Queen’s funeral. The recognition has been “humbling”, she says. “I couldn’t be more proud because it recognises some millions of Australians who go out there every day. Australia is supported by its volunteers, and we keep the country running.” 

Patti Newton, 79

An icon of the Australian entertainment scene, Patti returns to the stage this year with a starring role in Grease the Musical, playing schoolteacher Miss Lynch in the show’s new Australian run. Devoted wife to TV legend Bert Newton for 38 years, it’s Patti’s time to shine.  

An accomplished radio, TV and theatre performer in her own right, Patti says it’s what Bert would have wanted for her after his death in 2021. “When Bert passed, I was having problems, like everybody does, and I didn't think I was ever going to succeed or get out of bed again,” she confides. “But it wouldn’t be what he’d want, he would want me to move on.” Last year, she played Bird Woman in Mary Poppins: “And now I’m so excited to do Grease.” 

Patti has some pre-show rituals that honour her late husband. “I do take Bert on stage with me every night and I have a couple of things that I do before I go on, which are very, very much him,” she says. “I bless myself before I go on, and I do a fist bump to any of the crew that’s around. They all know someone’s got to be there to do it for me.”  

Leanne Hillman, 68

The court environment can be daunting for victims and witnesses of crime, but thanks to volunteers like Leanne, vulnerable community members are extended a helping hand when they need it most. She has worked at Victims and Witnesses of Crime Court Support (VWCCS) since 2009, volunteering as a court support officer and, in more recent years, operations manager. The team is made up of trained volunteers who help victims and witnesses feel prepared, safe and comfortable when attending court proceedings to give evidence.  

“I worked with state government services for a number of years and when I retired, I was still interested in being able to give back to the community and doing some worthwhile volunteer work,” she tells DARE. “The work is enormously rewarding and I would strongly recommend people get involved in volunteering and to look at what skills they’ve got to offer.” 

Leanne’s dedication was recognised in 2023 when she was named NSW Volunteer of the Year (and also Senior Volunteer of the Year, an award sponsored by Australian Seniors). “It was a great surprise because there are so many great volunteers around, but I also have to say it was fantastically positive recognition of the work that VWCCS does. The value of that work is part of the reason for the award.” 

Nick Cave, 66

Is there anything Nick can’t do? He first made his name 40 years ago as the lead singer and songwriter with Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds but, in his five-decade career, he’s also been a score composer, a writer of books and film scripts and, most recently, a ceramic artist.  

Praised as a genius for both his words and his music, the England-based star is currently on tour in Australia, and preparing to release the first Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds album in five years. “I don’t collect ideas, I don’t write things down or get a cool title or whatever. I just make a date and sit down and start to write a record,” he says of his creative process. 

Nick has also been praised for his candid conversations around grief, following the tragic deaths of his sons Arthur (in 2015) and Jethro (in 2022). He expresses his pain in his book Faith, Hope and Carnage and on his website, The Red Hand Files, where he supports fans experiencing their own grief. “It was really with The Red Hand Files that I learned how to write about it,” he says. “Even though I couldn’t really talk about it, at least I could develop a language around grief.” 

Lillie Giang, 54

When a devastating storm hit Victoria in June 2021, hundreds of families in the Dandenong Ranges area were left either homeless or without access to food. Local chef Lillie sprang into action, setting up an emergency relief kitchen to prepare meals for the community and rescuers. This operation was the origin of Feed One Feed All, a not-for-profit founded by Lillie that now produces 700 to 900 meals a week for people experiencing homelessness, illness, financial stress and escaping violent homes. 

Catering for groups comes naturally to Lillie, who has appeared on TV cooking segments and runs a cooking school where her students include people with disabilities. “I am fortunate that I can combine my passion for food with community outreach and that I have the skills to provide sustenance to help those doing it tough,” she tells DARE. “I love food and I love sharing food.” 

Demand for Feed One Feed All continues to grow, meaning Lillie is always busy securing funding and recruiting volunteers. “I know we can’t help everyone or fix world hunger, but we can start with a bowl of rice. Together we can turn that bowl of rice into a nutritious meal and give some hope to someone who needs it.”  

Andy Penn, 60

In a time of data breaches and increasing online crime, cybersecurity is a significant challenge for Australia’s economy. So when the Minister for Home Affairs set up an expert advisory board into the federal government’s cybersecurity strategy, Andy was tapped to be chair. As the former CEO of Telstra, he has a keen interest in how organisations evolve in the digital age. “There’s no doubt that the level of cybersecurity threat has grown dramatically,” he told the ABC. “There is much more that does need to be done, and that’s just a reality of the digital world in which we live.” 

Andy, who was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his services to business, charity, youth and the arts, concluded his cybersecurity role last year, assuming a role on the Coles Group board as chair of its audit and risk committee, and an advisory position for the Quad Investors Network, a group tackling economic and security challenges in Australia, India, Japan and the US.  

“Being somebody who grew up in the UK and progressed through their career after having dropped out of school at an early age, Australia’s offered me a lot of opportunity,” he says. 

Fiona Simson, 60

In 2006, when a mining giant came knocking with plans to dig up her family’s farm, Fiona found her voice. She won a David versus Goliath-style battle to protect the Liverpool Plains area of NSW, and 10 years later became the first female president of the National Farmers’ Federation. Today, the crop and cattle producer is one of the most powerful and recognisable faces in Australian agriculture, as comfortable in Canberra as she is in her sorghum fields.  

Fiona stepped down from the NFF presidency role late last year and is credited with reinvigorating the lobby group, repositioning agriculture as innovative and future-focused, and developing the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap, to grow farming to a $100 billion industry by 2030. She also gave farmers a voice on critical national issues, such as climate change. “Farmers are not climate change denialists,” says Fiona.  

She has now been elected to the board of the World Farmers’ Organisation, representing all of Oceania. “The answer to having a say and solving problems is to be on the front foot, get involved, be positive and engaged – and to have a loud voice and a seat at the table if you really want to change the debate and the narrative,” she says. 

Chris Cuffe, 64

Well known in financial circles, Chris spent years building and running successful wealth management practices, including Colonial First State, which he took from a startup operation to become Australia’s largest investment manager during his tenure. Among other key roles, he was chair of UniSuper, a multi-billion-dollar super scheme for Australia’s higher education and research sector. 

With strong experience behind him and a curious mind, Chris explored why more wealthy Australians weren’t engaged in philanthropy. “The research showed that there were many barriers preventing people from participating in structured philanthropy,” Chris tells DARE.  

And so began his work in overcoming the hurdles, establishing and chairing Australian Philanthropic Services (APS), which helps clients manage their charitable giving using tax-efficient structures, and supports them in leaving a legacy after their death. APS has come a long way in the past 13 years, with more than 800 clients donating over $160 million to charity each year – a sizable pool of money going towards worthwhile causes and community initiatives. “While there is great benefit to the charities and the community, we find that it is our clients who gain the most benefit from engaging with the causes that matter to them,” says Chris. 

Dr Tony Press, 70

When Dr Press talks about Antarctica, his deep affection for the landscape is palpable. As adjunct professor for the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, he has spent a lot of time on the frozen continent. He vividly recalls first stepping foot on Antarctic ice after being appointed director of the Australian Antarctic Division in 1998. “Walking out across the landscape, and just having this 360-degree view of the horizon, and the vastness and the sheer scale – it’s overwhelming, really,” he tells DARE. 

Dr Press is the author of the Australian government’s Antarctic Strategic Plan and is highly respected for his scientific insights on the Southern Oceans region. Last year he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service to the environment, particularly in Antarctica and Kakadu.  

He describes Antarctica as the “engine room of the global climate”, and continues to sound the alarm about the impacts of climate change. “My hope for the future is that the governance framework, and the science that goes with it, will help us not only understand Antarctica and its role in the global climate, but also help us understand how to protect the species that live there, and protect Antarctica from climate change.” 

Professor Kerryn Phelps, 66

The outspoken GP is not afraid of a challenge. A strong leader and unwavering advocate for doctors, patients and communities, Professor Phelps is past-president of the Australian Medical Association, a former independent MP and a trusted voice in the media.  

She has dedicated much of her career to boosting health literacy, improving public health and putting important causes in the spotlight, including the health of Indigenous people, refugee rights and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities. “I’ve had this philosophy that if I’m in a position and have the ability to give attention to an important issue, then I feel a responsibility to speak up and not just sit back and quietly complain or despair,” she tells DARE. 

The doctor adds that it’s an enormous privilege to work as a GP, and among her many achievements, she is especially proud of her time leading the federal AMA and her voice in the media. Her new memoir, Power of Balance, further explores the milestones and ideas that helped shape her lifelong pursuit to create change. “I think caring deeply about the issues that you’re working on is really fundamental to maintaining your motivation and your drive.” 

Sally Morgan, 72

First Nations writer, artist, dramatist and academic, Sally has proved herself someone who changes lives – over and over again. Her seminal memoir My Place, about the Stolen Generations and her quest to discover her Indigenous roots after being told by her mother she was of Indian heritage, captured Australia’s imagination and has long been on school curriculums across the nation. It also encouraged other First Nations people to reclaim their lineage, and inspired white Australians to celebrate them. 

“I realised from talking to people that most Australians were very ignorant of Aboriginal history,” Sally has explained. “So I thought it should be communicated – it had happened here. It was also a record for my kids.” 

The former professor at the University of Western Australia has since written a multi-award-winning series of books for children, including recent releases The River, which won a 2022 Environment Award for Children’s Literature prize, and Thank You Rain!, a CBCA Book of the Year – Notables 2023 winner. Sally, who is equally renowned for her art, with dozens of works housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, has also co-written a number of books with her three children. “We can never have enough stories,” she says. 

Deborah Mailman, 51

Deborah is one of the country’s most beloved actors, with roles in movies such as The Sapphires and Paper Planes, and popular TV shows The Secret Life of Us, Offspring and Total Control, the third series of which was released earlier in the year. But while she was also the first Aboriginal actor to win the Best Actress AFI Award in 1998 – she’s since won multiple acting prizes across both TV and film – she doesn’t really see herself as a trailblazer.  

“When I look back at the body of work I’ve done over the years, I feel really proud, and I do hope that will open doors for others,” she tells DARE. “All that work, and the various roles I’ve played, will hopefully prove inspirational for other young actors. I’m lucky in that I’ve had the opportunity to play some wonderful characters. Age often brings more interesting and eclectic ones, and more confidence.” 

Deborah wants to continue acting for as long as she’s in demand. “You’ve got to enjoy it and love it, otherwise it’s just too hard an industry to be in. I take everything as it comes, but I would love to do a bit more comedy. I think we all need a good laugh these days!” 

Professor Matthew Colless, 63

Professor Colless became an astronomer and astrophysicist because he wanted to find out the answers to the really big questions in life. “I wanted to know things like where we came from and where we’re going,” he tells DARE. “But every question you answer, throws up a new set of questions.”  

The distinguished professor at the ANU’s Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, who last year was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for service to scientific research, adds: “It’s proved a fabulous career, however. You get to think about the big things, meet fascinating people from around the world and play with really big toys.” 

Among those favourite toys is the Extremely Large Telescope under construction in Chile that he’s just visited. When finished, it will be the world’s biggest, with a 39m diameter; 10 times the diameter of the 1974 Anglo-Australian Telescope near Coonabarabran in country NSW he cajoled his parents into taking him to see as a child. “When scientists like myself started, we didn’t realise that only 5% of the universe was visible,” says Matthew. “The other 95% is unknown stuff but we’re making good progress. I’d love to know those answers!” 

Alex Perry, 61

Surviving (let alone thriving) in the glamorous yet cut-throat world of fashion, few Australian designers have succeeded like Alex – and after more than 30 years in the industry, he has no plans to slow down. “It’s not in my nature to sit back and rest on my laurels,” he says. “For me, it’s about amping it up, keeping it new, making sure we, as a brand, don’t become complacent.” 

Alex opened his first shop in Sydney’s Kensington in 1992 and made his mark in made-to-measure wedding dresses in the mid-2000s, becoming a household name in 2005 as judge on Australia's Next Top Model for its 10-year run. He has also collaborated with Specsavers on a signature sunglasses range since 2012. 

His collections are synonymous with celebrity and style, selling in luxury retailers across the globe and worn by some of the world’s most beautiful women, including Mary of Denmark, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow. “Proportion and fit is everything to me. I like my clothes to be transformative,” says Alex. “It has to have a sense of drama, and I want it to transform the wearer, make them feel beautiful and unbelievably confident.”  

Julia Gillard, 62

From becoming Australia’s first – and so far only – female prime minister to improving the lives of girls and women worldwide, Julia continues to be a force for change. She’s the founder and chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, which addresses the under-representation of women in leadership – very fitting for a woman who made waves with that powerful misogyny speech in 2012. “Discussion of gender is now much more common,” she says. “That gives me a lot of heart because we only change big things in our world by talking about them and getting the energy together for the change.” 

Last year Julia stepped down as chair of mental health organisation Beyond Blue but remains a patron. She also serves as chair of Wellcome, which supports science-based solutions to urgent global health challenges, and is proud to be patron of CAMFED – Campaign For Female Education, a Pan-African movement supporting girls to thrive at school and beyond. 

“Because I got a great quality education at local government schools, I’ve had the opportunity to go on and be involved in policy-making and leadership at the highest levels,” Julia says. “I believe everyone should get a great quality education, no matter where they are on our precious planet.” 

Terry Denton, 73

Illustrator and author Terry has been giving kids (and adults alike) a laugh for more than three decades with his unique drawing style that takes readers on wild and fun-filled adventures. “I’m trying to draw quickly and make it look like I’m drawing quickly,” Terry explains. “So it seems very unskilful, but the key thing is the idea.”  

His wicked sense of humour and informed flair for what interests and amuses children shines through in his work, which includes picture books, junior novels and collaborations with top Australian authors, including Andy Griffiths. Their hugely popular Treehouse series has sold over 10 million copies in Australia and has won over 80 children’s choice awards. After 13 years of fun in the growing treehouse, the much-loved series has come to an end with the final book, The 169-Storey Treehouse, released late last year.  

With Treehouse books on the shelves in more than 35 countries, Terry’s iconic illustration style has captured the imagination of children across the globe. Andy is one of his biggest fans. “To sit beside Terry while he is drawing is amusing and mysterious in equal parts,” he says. “He seems to literally ‘think’ through the drawing process itself.” 

Jason Donovan, 55

He had his first TV spot at the age of nine, but it was his stint as teen Scott Robinson on Neighbours that catapulted Jason to international stardom. Alongside touring and selling millions of pop albums, he’s had countless TV and stage roles, most recently reprising his lead role of Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in Sydney and Melbourne. 

“What still gives me a thrill after all these years? I just love working and engaging with other performers, I still love performing live,” Jason tells DARE. “I like the fact that at my age I can approach work with a sense of confidence.” Even so, preparing to return to the stage included a regime akin to an athlete. “My body sometimes tells me I’m older, but it’s about keeping physically fit, going to the gym, swimming, stretching. I’m loving my ice baths at the moment! 

Jason says his family – including wife Angela Malloch and their three children – is everything: “I feel like all the hard work I did in my youth is paying off a bit for me now. I think one of the best things about being this age is that all you’ve experienced makes it easier to deal with life as you get older.”  

Andrew Hoy, 65

Andrew may be one of Australia’s most successful athletes, with six Olympic medals – including three gold – but the equestrian never worries he’ll become too big for his riding boots. “Working with horses keeps you humble,” he tells DARE. “They only treat you the way you treat them; they don’t have any kind of notion about what you’ve done previously. They’ll only react to you according to how you’re behaving at that particular time. So you have to build credibility and respect afresh with every animal in a clear and structured way each time.” 

Andrew, who is now based in England, is currently in training for an incredible ninth Olympics, the 2024 Games in Paris, where the equestrian events are scheduled for the magnificent grounds of Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.  

“It’s the most beautiful place and I would feel very privileged to be able to compete there,” says Andrew. “People do ask me about retirement because of my age and achievements, but if I thought about that, I couldn’t focus on what I’m doing. Instead, I prefer to concentrate on what I’m doing today and how I could be better tomorrow. I’ve never set out to make, or break, records. I just want to be the best I can be.” 

Naomi Watts, 55

Australian actor and producer Naomi is on a mission to demystify menopause after experiencing perimenopause at age 36. “Going through menopause at such a young age was not easy,” she says. “My hormones were all over the place. I remember feeling so confused and alone, like I didn’t have control over my own body.” 

So in 2022 Naomi launched Stripes, a wellbeing and beauty brand with a focus on education and ditching the stigma surrounding menopause. “There was a lack of open conversation and resources to help women navigate the changes we go through,” she says. “That’s why I’m now so passionate about raising awareness and encouraging more honest conversations.” 

Known as a creative chameleon, Naomi is also making waves in her acting career, most recently playing New York socialite Barbara ‘Babe’ Paley in the TV series Feud: Capote Vs The Swans, in a critically acclaimed performance.  

Naomi, who married fellow actor Billy Crudup in New York last year, told Harper’s Bazaar she avoids travelling for roles during the school year, so she can be a hands-on mother to her teenage children Sasha and Kai, by her former partner Liev Schreiber. When she does work, she focuses on playing strong women.  

“As I get into the middle and latter part of my life, I’m just always looking for dynamic people. Look, we’re half the population, we’re living longer. Why shouldn’t these stories be just as relevant and interesting as [stories about] men of the same age?” she says. 

Marcia Hines, 69

Every morning, music legend Marcia Hines wakes up thinking how lucky she is still to be doing what she loves: producing hit albums, performing in musicals and appearing on TV as a judge on Australian Idol. “It’s just amazing to be doing all this,” she tells DARE. “It’s wonderful to remain relatively relevant! I’m having a ball, and loving being back on Australian Idol too. We’ve all grown up with it – with some people coming up to me and saying they love watching the show with their grandmothers.” 

With her latest album out in 2023 (Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collection) and a role as Teen Angel in Grease the Musical this year, Marcia still has ambitions left to fulfil. Next, she wants to sing a series of duets with artists she loves, including Tina Arena. 

“There are a lot of people I’d like to work with, whose music I enjoy,” she says. “But the sad thing is, some of those people have now passed away, like George Michael who was such a great visionary. But I love doing new things and every time my manager phones and says, ‘Have you ever considered…?’ I think, ‘Oh, goodie!’ It’s lovely to be able to keep reinventing myself.” 

Hugo Weaving, 64

One of our most acclaimed and awarded actors, Hugo is a master on screen and stage. His first television role was in 1984 miniseries Bodyline, and he made his name in major Australian films such as The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Babe, followed by international blockbusters including The Matrix trilogy and The Lord of the Rings films. 

Contributing to his success is his versatility and skill at playing roles across multiple genres, and creating characters that resonate with filmgoers. Film was his own “great educator” in his childhood, Hugo says. “I was so thrilled about the world I was entering into and learning about – and it was film that did that.” 

Despite his global fame, Hugo likes to stay local. “I do work in Australia. I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, I hate the place. I’d much rather live and work here and work on great Australian scripts.” Recent work includes streaming series Love Me and film The Rooster (he won 2024 AACTA awards for both projects) and an upcoming role in How to Make Gravy, based on Paul Kelly’s Christmas song. And with a long collaboration with the Sydney Theatre Company, Hugo is currently starring in its production of The President.  

Helen Garner, 81

She’s won most of the accolades Australia has to offer but writer Helen, in her ninth decade, is finally conquering the rest of the world. Her books have been picked up by the US and UK, and she’s now being feted by new fans. 

“I couldn’t be more astonished this has happened at such a late age,” Helen tells DARE. “It was never my ambition to be published outside my country,” adds the Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature winner and author of acclaimed novels like Monkey Grip and non-fiction works The First Stone and This House of Grief. “I like to write about small and intimate things from where I come from and not have to explain things or describe landscapes in great detail. But this is, I suppose, the icing on the cake and, while it is very surprising, it’s also a very happy thing.” 

Helen still loves writing and has just finished another book, this time about her grandson’s under-16 AFL team, which she followed for a year. “Becoming a grandmother is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” she says. “It’s brought me enormous happiness, and they’ve told me to carry on writing about them.” 

Keith Urban, 56

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, country star Keith’s love of music began in early childhood. The singer, songwriter and guitarist recorded his debut album in 1991, attracting attention on the Australian charts and a year later, he followed his dreams all the way to Nashville. It was in America that he was introduced to his wife, fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman, and the couple now have two children. 

Keith’s career in the US is going from strength to strength, with four Grammy awards, 12 studio albums and an ever-growing list of chart-topping hits and tours. He soared to even greater heights in 2023, with an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Being invited into the Hall of Fame is hands down one of the highest honours that’s ever happened to me,” says Keith. “I’ve always loved writing songs. I’ve always loved great songwriters. To be in this incredible group of songwriters is a bit surreal.” 

Keith has appeared as a judge on The Voice Australia and American Idol and is this year set to release a new studio album – his first in four years. “The songs are about hope, wild longing, working through things, and just sheer, mindless fun,” he says. 

Professor Charlie Corke, 70

Over his long career as an intensive care doctor, Professor Corke has seen countless families in their worst hours, grappling with a loved one’s serious condition, and having to make difficult decisions about their care. Realising how ill-prepared most people are for such moments, he took a lead role in creating MyValues.  

This free online service asks users a series of questions, then compiles a report expressing their wishes on end-of-life medical treatments, which can guide loved ones in making important decisions. “It makes a really difficult thing approachable, and it makes people think,” he tells DARE. “And I’ve had some really lovely feedback from people about how it’s helped them to do that.” 

Deputy chair of Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board and author of Letting Go: How to Plan for a Good Death, Professor Corke wants to empower Australians to face their final days with dignity and respect. He lectures on end-of-life decision making, and is running a hospital program to educate doctors on navigating conversations with patients about how they’d like their care to be managed if planned procedures don’t go well. “I hope that with time we all become more mature, and we recognise the need to take control and to manage end-of-life decisions.”   

Faith Agugu, 59

While working as a psychotherapist, Sydney-based Faith noticed a recurring theme among her older female patients. “They were feeling undervalued, overlooked and invisible,” she tells DARE. “I found this astounding! In my culture, becoming older is something to be celebrated. Unfortunately, it seems the westernised culture is very youth-focused and ageing is seen to be something to be ashamed of.” 

So, in 2018, the Nigerian-born, London-raised Faith founded online platform SilverSirens.org for women aged 50-plus to transform the negative stigma associated with ageing. “I wanted to build a community where women could be celebrated for who they are and what they have achieved, regardless of their age.” 

Silver Sirens hosts regular events covering topics including fitness, nutrition, menopause and alternatives to aged care facilities, as well as tackling major issues such as the homelessness crisis and loneliness.  

“My hope for the next generation is that by doing what we are doing with Silver Sirens, they will have an easier time with the concept of ageing and not fear it the way our generation was taught to fear it. That they will embrace ageing with grace and dignity because we have shown them how to.” 

Tracey Spicer, 56

When Tracey was in her 30s, she lost her job as a full-time newsreader due to maternity discrimination. It set her down the path of advocating for equity, and particularly the rights of women and girls. “The experience lit a fire in my belly that burns to this day,” she tells DARE. 

The author, broadcaster and journalist is passionate about exposing injustices against women. She became the face of the Me Too movement in Australia, bringing stories of sexual harassment and assault to the public arena. Globally, the award-winning journalist has presented documentaries on gendercide, sexual assault and the education gap in India, and interviewed survivors of domestic violence in Uganda. 

In recent years Tracey has focused on the impact of digital technology on gender inequality. Her latest book, Man-Made, spotlights the ways technology like AI perpetuates negative stereotypes about women and older people. “Chatbots in the home, like Siri, inevitably have female voices, while those in the business and finance sectors sound male,” she explains. “If an algorithm is being used to decide who gets a ventilator in hospital, it will choose a younger person every time, because they’re viewed as more valuable to a productive society.” 

Bernard Salt, 67

At a time of rapid change, the ability to forecast cultural, social and property trends is highly valuable – and leading demographer Bernard has become a household name for doing just that. From coining the phrase “the goat’s cheese curtain” to describe socioeconomic division, to sparking debate over the “smashed avocado” consumption of would-be homebuyers, his insights have led debate on what we want Australia to look like.   

Bernard, who has written six bestselling books, says his fascination with demography started early. “As a kid I questioned my parents about the Depression, about the war, about the 1950s and 1960s,” he tells DARE. “They were patient – mildly amused, I think, by my forensic interest – but soon enough I could put everything together and talk about how society had changed.” 

His insights continue to be in demand with governments and businesses – and he still loves every minute of it. Bernard believes entrepreneurship is the key to Australia’s future growth. “I don’t want the best and the brightest of Australia to be drawn to Silicon Valley,” he says. “I want businesses of scale and value to be owned and operated from within Australia.” 

Neale Whitaker, 62

For the lowdown on everything from pendants to pantries, interior design expert and TV presenter Neale is your man. His first life-defining moment was leaving the UK in 1999 for Australia, lured by the climate and the light – “It’s like Europe with all the dials turned up” – and the vibrant publishing industry. He had the formidable glossy duo of Vogue Living and Vogue Entertaining + Travel in his sights and ended up editing both, while also savouring food magazines as the founding editor of Delicious.  

His other defining moment was becoming the avuncular judge on reno blockbuster, The Block, from 2010. More recently, he also took on Foxtel’s Love It or List It, where he occupies the design hot-seat, persuading owners to ‘love’ their homes again after his inspired renovations.  

His hot homes prediction for 2024? “The Eccentric Aunt – it’s the year to stop following trends and let your individuality shine,” he tells DARE. “I love authentic interiors that tell the stories of their owners.” Having conquered print and TV, he is now also taking social media in his stride. “Social media is everything to be honest! It’s how I interact with the world.” His almost 145,000 Instagram followers would readily agree.  

Cate Blanchett, 54

From her breakthrough role in Elizabeth to her Oscar-winning turns as Katharine Hepburn in The Aviator and the eponymous lead in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, Cate has cemented herself as one of the most versatile and esteemed actresses of her generation. Her illustrious career spans decades, yet it’s Cate’s critically acclaimed role in 2022 film Tár that secured her position as the most-Oscar-nominated Australian, earning her an eighth Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of imperious conductor Lydia Tár. 

Although a work of fiction, Cate says the psychological drama is a reflection of real human qualities. “In a way, it’s about the character learning to become herself. It’s quite a lot of things we all do and say in private.”  

As well as her acting and producing roles for film and television, Cate is also a UNHCR goodwill ambassador, championing refugee causes since 2016.  

She amplified these efforts through her 2020 series Stateless, about the plight of immigrants in detention in Australia, which resonated with audiences around the world. “Once you experience the situation that people are in, then you start to make a very visual connection to the immediate trauma of those people’s experience,” says Cate. “It does shift your point of view.” 

Elle Macpherson, 60

It’s been a year of double celebrations for Australia’s original supermodel, who not only turned 60 in recent months but is also marking the 10th birthday of her wellness and supplement brand, WelleCo. “I am loving turning 60,” says Elle, who was nicknamed ‘The Body’ in her early modelling career. “I think this is the first time in my life that I feel truly seen for who I am, that I’ve settled into my authentic self.” 

Still in demand as a model, Elle, who is based in Florida, returned to Australia in January to celebrate the anniversary of WelleCo and to deliver the keynote speech at the AO Inspirational Series at the Australian Open, an annual event that celebrates women’s achievement. 

During her visit, Elle explained the inspiration behind her wellness brand was to help people. “Deep down, that was what I have always wanted my career to be about. When I turned 50, I started to feel run-down, coffee addicted, sugar addicted, putting on weight, hormonally challenged. I thought, other people must be feeling this way. Now I am so proud of my Australian company that is doing so well all over the world.” 

John Farnham, 74

In a career spanning decades, John is one of the most significant contributors to Australian music. His 1986 smash hit You’re the Voice became an anthem across the generations – even lent to last year’s referendum ‘Yes’ campaign – with its album Whispering Jack becoming Australia’s highest-selling album by an Australian artist. 

The nation was collectively shocked when in 2022 the star revealed he was undergoing surgery to have a tumour removed from his mouth following a cancer diagnosis, and relieved again after John declared he had been given the ‘all clear’ in August last year. “I am the luckiest man I know right now,” he said, adding that he would be marking the day by eating pizza. “I can’t wait to see what might be next on the menu. Bring on 2024.” 

Recovering away from the spotlight, he left it up to his sons Rob and James to attend the premiere of John Farnham: Finding the Voice, the authorised biopic that documents his early success, his very lean years and, finally, his triumphant comeback with Whispering Jack. Proving he has lost none of his influence in Australian culture, the film was named Best Documentary at the 2024 AACTA Awards. 

Adam Gilchrist, 52

Australian cricketer turned commentator Richie Benaud, who saw six decades of cricketing greats, called wicketkeeper-batsman Adam the cleanest striker he had ever seen. Fellow player Rod Marsh was no less a fan: “I never saw Bradman bat, but it’s hard to imagine he could have been any more destructive.” Cricketing bible the Wisden Almanack was more succinct about the former Australian captain, whose international playing career spanned almost two decades: “He is a breaker of wills.” 

Following his retirement from the international playing field in 2008, Adam has remained at the top of his game, working as a commentator, philanthropist and mentor. His aim, he says, is to nurture the spirit of cricket “from the ground up”.  

“What I love,” he writes in his autobiography True Colours, “is introducing kids to the game, tapping all that pure, innocent enthusiasm of taking the ball and hitting and bowling it and learning to be part of the team.” 

Inspired by past tours of India with the Australian cricket team, his current roles include being goodwill ambassador to World Vision – he has worked with the charity to provide life-saving equipment to health centres across India – and Adam has just been appointed to the advisory board of the Centre for Australia-India Relations. 

Wendy Moore, 53

Media executive and interiors expert Wendy has been influencing Australian homes and lifestyles for decades, not that she’d use that word to describe herself. “The way the word – influencer – is used now is not how I think of myself,” she tells DARE. “As a woman, in particular as a woman in business, you hope that you have some influence, but I would never have put that in my byline!”  

That byline is an impressive one: she’s director of channels and content at Foxtel, co-host of Selling Houses Australia (Wendy is currently filming her fourth series – the show’s 17th) and director of The Interiors Edit, her content and product collaboration company. She also spent several years as a judge on renovation show House Rules, and edited Home Beautiful magazine for more than a decade. 

Throughout her career, Wendy has always focused on delivering ideas and inspiration that are attainable and accessible to everyone, pushing against the myth that “you had to be rich to be stylish”. “I never wanted to do anything that’s passive or voyeuristic; it’s not looking at how other people live, it’s dreaming about how you’d like to live.” And if she can guide her audience in that direction, job done. 

Professor Frank Jotzo, 54

How do you keep your head as a climate change expert, when everyone around you seems to be losing theirs? Practise patience and understanding, environmental economist Professor Jotzo tells DARE. “You need a high degree of resilience to cope with setbacks and disappointments in general,” says the director of the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy and lead for the government’s Carbon Leakage Review. “You need a thick skin in terms of the world not acting with the urgency and resolve that the problems warrant.” 

That’s just the way the world works, he adds. “People’s attention tends to be, for obvious reasons, concentrated on more immediate problems that look simpler rather than long-term, more complex problems like climate change. You need purposeful optimism; you don’t make much progress when you dwell on the negatives. It’s better to look at the positives.” 

Among those include rapid developments of alternative energy technologies like cheaper solar batteries, wind power and the relative affordability now of electric vehicles. In addition, there’s the fact that greenhouse gas emissions, while still growing in volume, are nowhere near the doom-laden predictions of 10 to 15 years ago. “I wouldn’t say we’re cheerful overall, but there are reasons for optimism.” 

Tracy Grimshaw, 63

One of Australia’s most recognisable television faces, Tracy brought a fresh, female spin to current affairs when she replaced Ray Martin as host of Nine’s flagship series A Current Affair in 2006 after nearly a decade as co-host of Today. She quickly established herself as an outspoken and fiercely intelligent anchor who wasn’t afraid to ask the hard questions.  

Tracy hosted ACA for 17 years, charming and disarming A-listers such as Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand and Oprah Winfrey – but it was her chats with ordinary Australians living through extraordinary moments that really captured the nation’s hearts. She stepped down in 2022, explaining: “I’ve basically been a shift worker for 29 years, driving to work before dawn on Today, and driving home after dark on A Current Affair and it’s time for less of that daily obligation.”  

Now Tracy is set to return to our screens this year in the Nine series Do You Want to Live Forever? with Dr Nick Coatsworth, which examines ageing and mortality. “I really haven’t spent my life looking for the fountain of youth,” Tracy admits, “but I’m fascinated by how far people take that search, and how advanced medicine is becoming in that space. I’m a bit of a medical nerd so the research has been a pleasure.” 

Brad Fittler, 52

There’s nothing quite like sport to unite and inspire Australians. But one day, NRL star player turned coach and commentator Brad noticed that spirit wasn’t extending far beyond urban borders. Determined to change that, he set off on the HOGS National Tour, a venture that takes him and other prominent rugby league personalities from the men’s and women’s games on motorcycle tours to regional areas. 

“It all started because there were noises that bush footy was being forgotten,” he tells DARE of the tour that has now been running for more than a decade. “This allows us to get out into communities and give the country people of rugby league an experience.” 

Brad, who stepped down as head coach of the NSW rugby league team at the end of last year and is currently working in participation, football and community development for the NRL, took HOGS across the NSW border into Queensland and Victoria for the first time this year. The program hosts football-coaching clinics for children and facilitates discussions on mental health, fitness and nutrition, and last year ignited a $130,000 fundraiser for a bus for an additional needs school in Tumut, NSW. “It’s a nice way for the game to give back,” says Brad. 

Terri Irwin, 59

With her high-profile children taking on management roles at Australia Zoo, running the business and its charity causes, Terri knows her late husband Steve Irwin’s work is in safe hands. “I’m incredibly proud of Bindi and Robert as they honour Steve’s legacy and continue his conservation mission,” she tells DARE. “I feel very content knowing that everything Steve and I worked so hard for is in good hands.”  

Terri’s own focus continues to be on the protection of animals, here and abroad. “Our conservation work also includes humanitarian aid. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya we fund scholarships for students to gain a vocation, reducing the need to poach wildlife for an income. We also have several projects right here in Queensland, from research work to a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital.”  

She became a proud grandmother to granddaughter Grace in 2021. “I feel that I’m with a beautiful flower that’s growing and blossoming with each new experience that she has. Being part of Grace’s life is the greatest part of my life. And watching Bindi and Chandler experiencing parenthood is marvellous. Getting older is definitely a celebration,” Terri adds. “With a lifetime of experiences, triumphs, and some failures, older Australians have an opportunity to share their wisdom and truly benefit our community.” 

Toni Collette, 51

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Toni’s breakout role in Australian film Muriel’s Wedding, and she’s hardly slowing down. In fact, showbusiness news site Deadline Hollywood describes her as “as busy as any actor in town”. With recent multi-award-winning turns in TV hits The Power, The Staircase and Unbelievable, she’s now turning her considerable acting talents back to the big screen and has just filmed her “dream” role in Juror #2, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. 

She stars in the legal thriller alongside Nicholas Hoult, the British actor who played her son in 2002 film About a Boy. “I can’t quite believe it,” she says. “I get to work with the living legend Clint Eastwood and my former screen son sweetie Nicholas Hoult? Happy days, dreams are real!” 

Toni is also in demand from other top directors, including Bong Joon-ho, whose most recent film, Parasite, won four Oscars including Best Picture. The South Korean director called her personally to ask her to star in his forthcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17, she reveals. “He said, ‘Toni, I’ve been watching you a long time. I love your work and I want you to be in my movie.’” 

Dolly Parton

It may seem out of character for larger than-life country star Dolly Parton to know her way around a kitchen, but the 78-year-old Tennessee native has actually had a long love affair with food and released her first cookbook, Dolly’s Dixie Fixin’s, back in 2006. That book featured 125 recipes from her childhood, family members – she is one of 12 siblings – her theme park Dollywood and her travels. 

This year she’s brought out her second cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’ (named for the Hank Williams song Hey, Good Lookin’), highlighting her favourite family dishes and co-written with her younger sister Rachel, the executive director of her company and a singer, actor and songwriter in her own right. 

“God, family, music and food are the staples of my life,” Dolly writes in the book. “My sister Rachel and I come from a long line of great cooks – our Mama, our grandmothers, our aunts, cousins and so on.

“Our recipes are a reflection of who we are,” she adds. “There are some we grew up with and others we discovered in our adult lives and on travels, and some shared with us by friends or family.”

Gardening trends and tips for 2025

If you are making resolutions for the new year, don’t leave the garden out of your goals. Having a clear vision can improve your planting and design decisions, and make your outdoor spaces the best they can be, our experts explain.

With one in six Australians now living in apartments or townhouses, there’s little wonder more people want to bring a bit of the greenery they may be missing from lawns or backyards into their home. “Urban spaces are becoming smaller, so we’ll be looking this year to extend living spaces outdoors and to bring the outdoors in,” says architect, interior designer and gardener Jason Chongue. 

His big tip? “Use a series of potted plants to guide your view from indoors to outside. You can achieve this by using a ground cover, like maidenhair vine, that can grow both indoors and outdoors and will help to thread your spaces together seamlessly. Simply plant the vine below plants outside, as well as underplanting some of your indoor plants in the soil in their pots.”

But the trend is not limited to smaller dwellings. Horticulturist and Gardening Australia presenter Tammy Huynh believes people want to spend more time in their backyards. “People want to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still having access to the comforts of indoor spaces.”

She recommends equipping your outdoor living area with smart lighting and outdoor speakers, which can be discreetly integrated into the landscape.

Living with grandparent grief

With birth rates falling, increasing numbers of older people will miss out on becoming grandparents, giving rise to some complicated emotions. We explore what it’s like to confront this often unacknowledged form of loss.

When Debbie got married, motherhood was always going to be the next step. “I didn’t put any thought into it, it was just what was expected by society and family,” the 66-year-old Sydneysider recalls. Happily, she fell pregnant easily and took great joy in her role as a mother. As her son and daughter grew up, she assumed grandmotherhood would happen just as naturally, but eight years ago, her daughter, now 38, sat Debbie down to share some shocking news: she and her husband had chosen not to have children. 

“I just thought it was a phase, and that it would blow over. Then I thought as her friends had children, she’d want to do the same. But no, that didn’t sway them at all,” says Debbie, who hasn’t used her real name here, nor shared her surname, for fear of upsetting her children. Initially she tried to challenge her daughter – “I was quite blunt with her” – but when it became clear the couple were resolute about remaining child-free, crushing disappointment set in. 

Although Debbie has a 34-year-old son, he is single and has shown no inclination towards parenthood, leaving her struggling to accept that the place in her heart reserved for grandchildren may never be filled. “You can respect your children’s choices, but there is also sadness for yourself,” says Debbie.

Regret-free retirement

Retirement, like the rest of life, doesn’t come with a manual. It also happens to be complicated. So it’s really no surprise that many retirees make mistakes along the way. Whether it’s losing out on opportunities to grow superannuation in the final years of employment or missing out on life experiences for fear of running out of money, it’s not unusual for Australians to utter, “I wish I had known that sooner” when it comes to retirement. 

“One of the biggest mistakes over 50s make is to simply do nothing until it’s too late,” says financial adviser Helen Baker, founder of the On Your Own Two Feet financial advisory service and author of a series of books by the same name. “There are some opportunities that we can’t pull back,” she says. 

Take the example of her clients, David and Megan (names changed). They had been busy living life until their 60s crept up on them and they realised they didn’t have enough super to retire on. The problem was, David had just reached the point where he realised he “was done”, and didn’t have the energy to work anymore. Prior to this, they just “felt young”, Helen says. “So they hadn’t really thought that much about retirement.” David had been earning a high income but Megan hadn’t been working and had no super. Had they started planning for retirement earlier, David might have been able to explore the option of making voluntary spouse contributions. 

“There’s also my favourite piece of legislation, which is called the catch up legislation,” Helen says. “That allows you to go back, and if you have under $500,000 of super, and you haven’t met your cap in the previous five years, you can rebuild that cap.”

Trusting your gut

Australian celebrity chef Tobie Puttock is such close friends with British cooking star Jamie Oliver that he calls him “my brother from another mother”. The pair met when they worked together at landmark London restaurant The River Cafe in the late 1990s, and Tobie, now 50, went on to help Jamie launch his famous Fifteen restaurants in London and Melbourne. 

Since then Tobie, who is based in Melbourne with his wife Georgia and their daughter Birdie, has written five cookbooks and made a string of TV appearances, including on Jamie’s Kitchen and My Kitchen Rules. But as he tells host James Valentine on the fifth season of the award-winning podcast from Australian Seniors, Life’s Booming: Is This Normal?, one of his key missions is to get the balance right between great tasting food and healthy eating – benefiting the gut at the same time.

“Being in food for my career, with my whole life revolving around food, I see things jumping in and out of fashion and gut health has been a huge, fashionable topic for a long time,” says Tobie. But now he’s seen it move beyond fashion or fad into the realm of fact. “People accept that your gut is super important and eating the right foods and gut health really can make a huge difference to your life.”

His interest in gut health is personal, dating back to the time when he first got together with Georgia. “My wife, when we first met, was very controlled by her stomach issues, all tied in with the gut. She had food poisoning when she was younger so badly she was hospitalised for a few days (not from my cooking – I didn’t know her at this stage!) and it really screwed her gut up."

Healthy competition

When she is working out at her local gym, running through the park on a Sunday or competing in a sporting event, people often approach Sharon Chadwick to say how amazed they are at her strength, her speed and her skill. It took her aback at first, but now she has become used to their compliments. 

“But the best thing is when they come up and say they thought they couldn’t do something, then they saw me do it, and decided to have a go,” laughs Sharon. “And often they’ve surprised even themselves by being able to do it. That’s the best feeling!” 

For Sharon is no ordinary athlete. For a start, she was told at the age of 18, after a terrible car accident, that she’d never walk again. But today, at the age of 73, she’s running, jumping, lifting huge weights and pulling many more, and along the way smashing many of her own fitness goals – as well as the expectations of others. 

“I hear a lot of people, often much younger than me, making all sorts of excuses for not exercising,” says Melbourne-based Sharon, who has become one of the oldest Australian participants in the global indoor fitness competition Hyrox, which involves a combination of running and workout station activities, like rowing and kettleball carrying.

“They say they’ve got something wrong with them, and they can’t do things. But you have to keep fit and active. “I’ve got arthritis in my hands and in my right hip, but you just keep going and strengthen your bones and push through it. I think I’m getting stronger every day and I’ll carry on as long as I can. Even if, later, I’m in a wheelchair, I’ll take up something like wheelchair basketball!”.

Cameron Daddo

With a life and career dotted by many wonderful highs and several soul-searching lows, Cameron Daddo, 59, knows a thing or two about battles with confidence – enough to fill a book, even. Reflecting on the challenges that have led him to this point, he tells DARE he wouldn’t have it any other way.

To look at him you would think Cameron Daddo is the picture of self-confidence. Tanned from golf, open-water swimming and surfing, with a neatly trimmed beard and easy smile, that cheeky glint in his eye is still as endearing as when he first hosted Perfect Match back in the 1980s. Living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and happily married to model turned podcaster and author Alison Brahe-Daddo, his wife of 33 years, they share three grown children, who are healthy and following their dreams. And with 40 years’ experience in the acting, modelling and TV hosting game – including a 25-year stint in Hollywood – Cameron is now a seven-night-a-week DJ on Smooth FM and co-host of Foxtel’s Luxury Escapes, fabulously spending his time jet setting around the globe. So what’s not to be confident about?

Well, as far back as he can recall, Cameron – “Cam” to his mates – reveals he has had low times, considering himself a “fraud as an actor” privately, while publicly accepting two Logies for his performances, experiencing lean years as a Hollywood hopeful and having to weather family crises that were played out in the media. Yet throughout it all, he’s discovered there is power in persistence.

Rachel Ward, 66

When the notorious 2019 bushfires tore through the Nambucca Valley in NSW, just near actress and director Rachel’s family farm, she knew it was time to act. “It was a wake-up call that we’re in a serious climate challenge – what was I doing to ameliorate that?” she tells DARE. And so began her journey into regenerative farming, which, she says, “felt like an answer”.  

The practice aims to restore ecosystems, focusing on soil health, sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, boosting biodiversity and improving water management. It’s also about caring where your food comes from. As Rachel absorbed regenerative farming, she was able to put it into action on her farm, a beloved second home for her husband, actor Bryan Brown, their three children and grandchildren. And she’s had great success, creating a landscape that’s now humming with beneficial critters, abundant grasses and thriving livestock.  

Her progress was followed in a documentary, Rachel’s Farm, and she hopes to launch a paddock-to-plate business to help consumers make food decisions that benefit the environment. “I think I’m most proud of bringing environmental health back to this little pocket of land,” says Rachel. “It’s very purposeful to be on this path of finding something very positive and active to turn things around climate-wise.” 

Kieran Perkins, 50

When Australian Olympic swimmer Kieren had his first swimming lesson at school, he admits he wasn’t very good. But he enjoyed it so much, he carried on. The rest is history. “As my career went on, I chased gold medals,” he told education leaders last year. “And that’s what I’m still doing today as CEO of the Australian Sports Commission. I’m chasing gold-medal standards across the entire sports industry, from grassroots to the pinnacle of elite competition.” 

Kieren, who retired from swimming in 2000 after setting 11 world records, is now streaking ahead in the pursuit of excellence for all sportspeople Australia-wide – starting with children. “Green and gold success on the world stage is important to our national psyche,” he says. “But without a massive base of participants involved in fun, engaging activities, developing skills and a love of sport, it all falls apart.” 

His new vision is hinged on the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a program of major events on home soil that will showcase the very best of sport. “The runway to 2032 is a gift for this generation,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to unite, inspire and build the nation through sport.” 

Louise Sauvage, 50

As one of Australia’s most decorated Paralympians, Louise hasn’t put on the brakes since competing in her first IPC Athletics World Championships at the age of 16. Does she remember winning her first gold? “It feels like a long time ago – 32 years ago, at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics,” she tells DARE with a laugh.  

Louise dominated wheelchair racing for over a decade, raising the profile of Paralympic sport and scooping up multiple medals throughout her career. She retired after the Athens Paralympics in 2004 and switched to coaching young athletes, such as Madison de Rozario. “I’m probably just as competitive as I was,” she says. “But going from being an athlete to the other side as a coach is very different. You’re part of someone else’s journey, which is a big buzz for me. We’re working hard for the upcoming Paris Paralympics 2024 in August.” 

Enjoying this chapter of her career, Louise believes sporting ‘veterans’ have an important role to play in guiding rising stars. “They have a knowledge and perspective and history we can take and learn from. And that’s so important for younger athletes, to know where their sport came from and who’s come before them.” 

Professor Peter Hannaford, 84

As a child, Professor Hannaford was curious about everything and anything. Today, more than eight decades on, he is acknowledged as an award-winning global expert in his field of experimental science. “I don’t know the ‘r’ word; there’s no such thing as retirement,” he tells DARE. “I’ll always maintain an interest in science, whatever happens.” 

His work covers the length and breadth of time and space, researching chemical physics at the CSIRO for 24 years, before moving to Swinburne University of Technology in 2001 to become director of the Centre for Atom Optics and Ultrafast Spectroscopy. He remains professor emeritus at the university, and was made a Companion of the Order of Australia last year for his eminent service to science.  

Professor Hannaford has developed novel laser techniques and been involved in pioneering their application to search for mineral deposits beneath the earth’s surface and create atomic clocks that measure time with breathtaking precision – critical for synchronising activities in space. He’s currently working on ways to produce a quantum computer that, instead of processing information in space, does it in time. In-between, the professor still travels the world lecturing, speaking at conferences, and inspiring young scientists. “I love that,” he says. “It makes me feel I’m still young.” 

Judith Neilson, 78

Although Judith’s name has long been linked with art, her passion for global philanthropy is equally impressive. The Zimbabwe-born owner of Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery has invested vast sums of money into humanitarian causes, aiming to improve economic inequality in vulnerable communities in Australia and Africa. Among the causes she supports are Amnesty International, Operation Smile Australia and Ampilatwatja Health Centre Aboriginal Corporation, which provides healthcare to First Nations people in the Northern Territory. 

She also funds University of NSW research into innovative housing options for people displaced by natural disasters and conflict. “I believe anybody that is able to have a home, should be able to have one. I don’t believe that if you’re poor you should have a lesser home than somebody who’s rich,” Judith says. 

The focus of her philanthropy is helping communities become stronger. “We came here from Africa with nothing, and this country has been really good to us,” she says. “I feel very strongly about contributing to a greater culture of philanthropy in Australia, and there’s a big element of luck in being wealthy – I believe people have a responsibility to give back.” 

Brian Triglone, 78

Eight years ago, Brian watched a YouTube video of the Giving Voice Chorus, an American choir for people living with dementia. Having already drawn on his lifelong love of music to conduct community choirs, he was inspired to found a similar group in Canberra. “Alchemy Chorus is a dementia-inclusive community choir that is designed both for people living with dementia, their partner/relative or close friend, and volunteer singers,” he tells DARE.  

Alchemy Chorus has been a resounding success, sparking an alliance of similar choirs around Australia. “My initial goal was to bring some joy into the lives of couples impacted by dementia,” says Brian. “Studies have shown that musical memory remains well into the dementia journey, and is therefore something that couples can enjoy together in a non-judgemental, understanding environment when other social contacts start to diminish. Our choir members say that it’s the best day of the week.” 

Regular performance helps reinforce the importance of social inclusion, and shows that life needn’t stop with a diagnosis, says Brian, who was the 2023 ACT Senior Australian of the Year nominee. “Our concerts are a highlight and a great source of pride. There’s no greater feeling of satisfaction than to see smiling faces all around when we nail a song.” 

Professor Tom Calma, 70

When the referendum for the Voice to Parliament was defeated last October, many were disappointed, including Professor Calma, Aboriginal Elder and co-author of the Voice blueprint. But the Darwin-born social justice campaigner, a man who’s spent nearly half a century pushing for the rights, responsibilities and welfare of Indigenous people, believes we’ve got to have faith in the future – and the reconciliation efforts to come. 

“I’ve always been and always will be a glass-half-full person – I think the future is bright for our next tranche of leaders,” says Professor Calma, who retired in 2010 after a distinguished career in the Australian public service to work as a consultant, volunteer and academic. 
The 2023 Senior Australian of the Year and chancellor of the University of Canberra was appointed to the government’s Aged Care Taskforce last year, which aims to develop aged care options that are fair and equitable for all Australians. A member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, he also works to support older people in accessing culturally safe aged care. “It’s about creating empathy and respect so people can understand their treatment, medications and care that they can expect,” Professor Calma explains. 

Layne Beachley, 52

A seven-time world champion, Layne is widely regarded as the most successful female surfer in history, with a talent that shook up the male-dominated sport forever. Since her retirement in 2008, she has been inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (she was elevated to Legend status last year), and in 2023 became the first female patron of Surfing Australia, having stepped down as its chair after eight years in the role. She’s also fought for equality, supporting and mentoring young women to fulfil their potential. 

“There are many people out there who will tell you that you can’t,” she said last year. “What you must do is turn around and say, ‘Watch me’. When you’re clear on your own values, you live a life according to your own purpose. You’re no longer waiting for other people’s opinions or decisions to determine which direction you head in.” 

Layne remains passionate about helping others design a life they love, and has a new self-empowerment platform, Awake Academy. “I’m so excited for 2024 and all the exciting projects I have in the pipeline,” says Layne. “There is so much to look forward to.” 

Dr Alan Finkel, 71

Dr Finkel is hopeful that a clean energy future is within Australia’s grasp. And his latest book, Powering Up: Unleashing the Clean Energy Supply Chain, suggests how it can be done. The former Australian chief scientist is a neuroscientist, engineer, researcher, entrepreneur and policy adviser. He’s made an enormous contribution to the country’s knowledge base on energy, leading a review of Australia’s electricity market, developing the National Hydrogen Strategy and advising the government on the national Low Emissions Technology Roadmap.  

“In the pursuit of a zero-emissions future, nothing is more important than the energy system, currently responsible for nearly three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions,” he tells DARE. “If we invest in new clean technologies, the old high-emission technologies will become obsolete and disappear. The investment is huge, the commitment must be unwavering, but the pathway is clear.” 

He describes the shift to clean energy as “the most difficult economic transition in human society since the dawn of agriculture”. Yet he can see a way forward. “A low-emissions future is within our grasp as long as we all accept the need to compromise, so that the pursuit of perfection does not get in the way of the very good.” 

Alan Schwartz, 71

Entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist Alan spent some 30 years creating, acquiring and managing businesses across a diverse range of industries, including publishing, property, professional services and software. Underlying his passion for business is what he describes as “a deep commitment to family and community”, and an interest in the not-for-profit sector.  

Among a long list of successful projects is his contribution to the creation of Jewish Care – a merger of Jewish Community Services and Montefiore Homes – and his role as its inaugural president. Alan was also chair of Philanthropy Australia from 2014-2019. In 2004, Alan and his wife Carol established the Trawalla Foundation as a vehicle for the philanthropic activities of the Schwartz family, focusing on projects including gender equality, creativity, sustainability and social justice.  

He now describes his professional life as having transitioned from “entrepreneur and business builder” to “active investor, philanthropist and social activist”. His efforts were rewarded last year when he was awarded Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic endeavours, and to sustainable social benefit initiatives. And while he welcomed the recognition for his hard work, Alan says, “Community work is reward in itself.” 

Jack Hamilton, 83

Volunteers tend to work behind the scenes, and some, like Jack, give years of their life to helping others. In fact, Jack was recognised last year with the Northern Territory Chief Minister’s Volunteer of the Year Award for 38 years as the face of Northern Territory Legacy, an organisation supporting the partners and children of those who gave their lives or their health for our country. 

“It’s nice to be recognised,” he tells DARE. “I spent 36 years in the army and lost a few of my very close friends, and I supported those families as best I could. Then I joined Legacy and continued to do it – it’s been some of the most important work I’ve done.”  

For Jack, that means making sure beneficiaries are catered for in the absence of a spouse or parent. He’s also done countless fundraising and guided new volunteers through the Legacy ranks. And while he’ll still be knocking about NT Legacy HQ, he says he is scaling down. “I’m keen to spend more time with the family and with my wife – we realised we haven’t seen a lot of Australia, so we’ve got a trip to plan!” 

Dr Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann, 70s

Teacher, artist and respected Elder, Dr Ungunmerr Baumann has dedicated her life to educating children and helping them connect with their culture. In 1975 she became the Northern Territory’s first fully-qualified Aboriginal teacher, and has been a support to the community through her long-term work with St Francis Xavier Catholic School on the Daly River, 250km south of Darwin. It’s here that she was a teacher then principal, before being appointed to the federal government’s National Indigenous Council. In 2013 she established the Miriam Rose Foundation to bridge the divide between Aboriginal culture and mainstream society.  

“Being an educator is my proudest achievement because we integrated cultural education, which continually helped and taught our young people about the traditions, identity and their stories,” Dr Ungunmerr Baumann tells DARE. Today, the 2021 Senior Australian of the Year continues to support the school community in Daly River, acting as a “leaning post for everyone who needs support and guidance in educating our children”. 

“I continue working closely with the local school and teachers who come to us as guests on our country, helping them build a strong relationship with our local teachers and together they build a strong future for our students who grow and learn.” 

Valmai ‘Val’ Dempsey, 73

“Aunty Val”, as she is widely known, has now retired from her job as a nurse, but her lifelong commitment to caring for the community shows no signs of wavering. She joined St John Ambulance as a cadet in primary school, and having notched up more than 50 years of service, she is now one of the ACT’s longest-serving volunteers. Her responsibilities have included teaching first aid, mentoring children and advocating for the welfare of first responders. She also played a major role in coordinating St John’s response to the Black Summer fires and the pandemic.  

“I don’t suppose that the heart ever grows tired of being in that role,” she tells DARE. “You get out of the house, you get to meet people, you have a challenge, you get to share your knowledge, you get to learn more things – I learn something every time I go out.” 

Val’s community service saw her awarded Senior Australian of the Year in 2022, and she was chosen to represent Australia at the Queen’s funeral. The recognition has been “humbling”, she says. “I couldn’t be more proud because it recognises some millions of Australians who go out there every day. Australia is supported by its volunteers, and we keep the country running.” 

Patti Newton, 79

An icon of the Australian entertainment scene, Patti returns to the stage this year with a starring role in Grease the Musical, playing schoolteacher Miss Lynch in the show’s new Australian run. Devoted wife to TV legend Bert Newton for 38 years, it’s Patti’s time to shine.  

An accomplished radio, TV and theatre performer in her own right, Patti says it’s what Bert would have wanted for her after his death in 2021. “When Bert passed, I was having problems, like everybody does, and I didn't think I was ever going to succeed or get out of bed again,” she confides. “But it wouldn’t be what he’d want, he would want me to move on.” Last year, she played Bird Woman in Mary Poppins: “And now I’m so excited to do Grease.” 

Patti has some pre-show rituals that honour her late husband. “I do take Bert on stage with me every night and I have a couple of things that I do before I go on, which are very, very much him,” she says. “I bless myself before I go on, and I do a fist bump to any of the crew that’s around. They all know someone’s got to be there to do it for me.”  

Leanne Hillman, 68

The court environment can be daunting for victims and witnesses of crime, but thanks to volunteers like Leanne, vulnerable community members are extended a helping hand when they need it most. She has worked at Victims and Witnesses of Crime Court Support (VWCCS) since 2009, volunteering as a court support officer and, in more recent years, operations manager. The team is made up of trained volunteers who help victims and witnesses feel prepared, safe and comfortable when attending court proceedings to give evidence.  

“I worked with state government services for a number of years and when I retired, I was still interested in being able to give back to the community and doing some worthwhile volunteer work,” she tells DARE. “The work is enormously rewarding and I would strongly recommend people get involved in volunteering and to look at what skills they’ve got to offer.” 

Leanne’s dedication was recognised in 2023 when she was named NSW Volunteer of the Year (and also Senior Volunteer of the Year, an award sponsored by Australian Seniors). “It was a great surprise because there are so many great volunteers around, but I also have to say it was fantastically positive recognition of the work that VWCCS does. The value of that work is part of the reason for the award.” 

Nick Cave, 66

Is there anything Nick can’t do? He first made his name 40 years ago as the lead singer and songwriter with Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds but, in his five-decade career, he’s also been a score composer, a writer of books and film scripts and, most recently, a ceramic artist.  

Praised as a genius for both his words and his music, the England-based star is currently on tour in Australia, and preparing to release the first Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds album in five years. “I don’t collect ideas, I don’t write things down or get a cool title or whatever. I just make a date and sit down and start to write a record,” he says of his creative process. 

Nick has also been praised for his candid conversations around grief, following the tragic deaths of his sons Arthur (in 2015) and Jethro (in 2022). He expresses his pain in his book Faith, Hope and Carnage and on his website, The Red Hand Files, where he supports fans experiencing their own grief. “It was really with The Red Hand Files that I learned how to write about it,” he says. “Even though I couldn’t really talk about it, at least I could develop a language around grief.” 

Lillie Giang, 54

When a devastating storm hit Victoria in June 2021, hundreds of families in the Dandenong Ranges area were left either homeless or without access to food. Local chef Lillie sprang into action, setting up an emergency relief kitchen to prepare meals for the community and rescuers. This operation was the origin of Feed One Feed All, a not-for-profit founded by Lillie that now produces 700 to 900 meals a week for people experiencing homelessness, illness, financial stress and escaping violent homes. 

Catering for groups comes naturally to Lillie, who has appeared on TV cooking segments and runs a cooking school where her students include people with disabilities. “I am fortunate that I can combine my passion for food with community outreach and that I have the skills to provide sustenance to help those doing it tough,” she tells DARE. “I love food and I love sharing food.” 

Demand for Feed One Feed All continues to grow, meaning Lillie is always busy securing funding and recruiting volunteers. “I know we can’t help everyone or fix world hunger, but we can start with a bowl of rice. Together we can turn that bowl of rice into a nutritious meal and give some hope to someone who needs it.”  

Andy Penn, 60

In a time of data breaches and increasing online crime, cybersecurity is a significant challenge for Australia’s economy. So when the Minister for Home Affairs set up an expert advisory board into the federal government’s cybersecurity strategy, Andy was tapped to be chair. As the former CEO of Telstra, he has a keen interest in how organisations evolve in the digital age. “There’s no doubt that the level of cybersecurity threat has grown dramatically,” he told the ABC. “There is much more that does need to be done, and that’s just a reality of the digital world in which we live.” 

Andy, who was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his services to business, charity, youth and the arts, concluded his cybersecurity role last year, assuming a role on the Coles Group board as chair of its audit and risk committee, and an advisory position for the Quad Investors Network, a group tackling economic and security challenges in Australia, India, Japan and the US.  

“Being somebody who grew up in the UK and progressed through their career after having dropped out of school at an early age, Australia’s offered me a lot of opportunity,” he says. 

Fiona Simson, 60

In 2006, when a mining giant came knocking with plans to dig up her family’s farm, Fiona found her voice. She won a David versus Goliath-style battle to protect the Liverpool Plains area of NSW, and 10 years later became the first female president of the National Farmers’ Federation. Today, the crop and cattle producer is one of the most powerful and recognisable faces in Australian agriculture, as comfortable in Canberra as she is in her sorghum fields.  

Fiona stepped down from the NFF presidency role late last year and is credited with reinvigorating the lobby group, repositioning agriculture as innovative and future-focused, and developing the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap, to grow farming to a $100 billion industry by 2030. She also gave farmers a voice on critical national issues, such as climate change. “Farmers are not climate change denialists,” says Fiona.  

She has now been elected to the board of the World Farmers’ Organisation, representing all of Oceania. “The answer to having a say and solving problems is to be on the front foot, get involved, be positive and engaged – and to have a loud voice and a seat at the table if you really want to change the debate and the narrative,” she says. 

Chris Cuffe, 64

Well known in financial circles, Chris spent years building and running successful wealth management practices, including Colonial First State, which he took from a startup operation to become Australia’s largest investment manager during his tenure. Among other key roles, he was chair of UniSuper, a multi-billion-dollar super scheme for Australia’s higher education and research sector. 

With strong experience behind him and a curious mind, Chris explored why more wealthy Australians weren’t engaged in philanthropy. “The research showed that there were many barriers preventing people from participating in structured philanthropy,” Chris tells DARE.  

And so began his work in overcoming the hurdles, establishing and chairing Australian Philanthropic Services (APS), which helps clients manage their charitable giving using tax-efficient structures, and supports them in leaving a legacy after their death. APS has come a long way in the past 13 years, with more than 800 clients donating over $160 million to charity each year – a sizable pool of money going towards worthwhile causes and community initiatives. “While there is great benefit to the charities and the community, we find that it is our clients who gain the most benefit from engaging with the causes that matter to them,” says Chris. 

Dr Tony Press, 70

When Dr Press talks about Antarctica, his deep affection for the landscape is palpable. As adjunct professor for the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, he has spent a lot of time on the frozen continent. He vividly recalls first stepping foot on Antarctic ice after being appointed director of the Australian Antarctic Division in 1998. “Walking out across the landscape, and just having this 360-degree view of the horizon, and the vastness and the sheer scale – it’s overwhelming, really,” he tells DARE. 

Dr Press is the author of the Australian government’s Antarctic Strategic Plan and is highly respected for his scientific insights on the Southern Oceans region. Last year he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service to the environment, particularly in Antarctica and Kakadu.  

He describes Antarctica as the “engine room of the global climate”, and continues to sound the alarm about the impacts of climate change. “My hope for the future is that the governance framework, and the science that goes with it, will help us not only understand Antarctica and its role in the global climate, but also help us understand how to protect the species that live there, and protect Antarctica from climate change.” 

Professor Kerryn Phelps, 66

The outspoken GP is not afraid of a challenge. A strong leader and unwavering advocate for doctors, patients and communities, Professor Phelps is past-president of the Australian Medical Association, a former independent MP and a trusted voice in the media.  

She has dedicated much of her career to boosting health literacy, improving public health and putting important causes in the spotlight, including the health of Indigenous people, refugee rights and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities. “I’ve had this philosophy that if I’m in a position and have the ability to give attention to an important issue, then I feel a responsibility to speak up and not just sit back and quietly complain or despair,” she tells DARE. 

The doctor adds that it’s an enormous privilege to work as a GP, and among her many achievements, she is especially proud of her time leading the federal AMA and her voice in the media. Her new memoir, Power of Balance, further explores the milestones and ideas that helped shape her lifelong pursuit to create change. “I think caring deeply about the issues that you’re working on is really fundamental to maintaining your motivation and your drive.” 

Sally Morgan, 72

First Nations writer, artist, dramatist and academic, Sally has proved herself someone who changes lives – over and over again. Her seminal memoir My Place, about the Stolen Generations and her quest to discover her Indigenous roots after being told by her mother she was of Indian heritage, captured Australia’s imagination and has long been on school curriculums across the nation. It also encouraged other First Nations people to reclaim their lineage, and inspired white Australians to celebrate them. 

“I realised from talking to people that most Australians were very ignorant of Aboriginal history,” Sally has explained. “So I thought it should be communicated – it had happened here. It was also a record for my kids.” 

The former professor at the University of Western Australia has since written a multi-award-winning series of books for children, including recent releases The River, which won a 2022 Environment Award for Children’s Literature prize, and Thank You Rain!, a CBCA Book of the Year – Notables 2023 winner. Sally, who is equally renowned for her art, with dozens of works housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, has also co-written a number of books with her three children. “We can never have enough stories,” she says. 

Deborah Mailman, 51

Deborah is one of the country’s most beloved actors, with roles in movies such as The Sapphires and Paper Planes, and popular TV shows The Secret Life of Us, Offspring and Total Control, the third series of which was released earlier in the year. But while she was also the first Aboriginal actor to win the Best Actress AFI Award in 1998 – she’s since won multiple acting prizes across both TV and film – she doesn’t really see herself as a trailblazer.  

“When I look back at the body of work I’ve done over the years, I feel really proud, and I do hope that will open doors for others,” she tells DARE. “All that work, and the various roles I’ve played, will hopefully prove inspirational for other young actors. I’m lucky in that I’ve had the opportunity to play some wonderful characters. Age often brings more interesting and eclectic ones, and more confidence.” 

Deborah wants to continue acting for as long as she’s in demand. “You’ve got to enjoy it and love it, otherwise it’s just too hard an industry to be in. I take everything as it comes, but I would love to do a bit more comedy. I think we all need a good laugh these days!” 

Professor Matthew Colless, 63

Professor Colless became an astronomer and astrophysicist because he wanted to find out the answers to the really big questions in life. “I wanted to know things like where we came from and where we’re going,” he tells DARE. “But every question you answer, throws up a new set of questions.”  

The distinguished professor at the ANU’s Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, who last year was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for service to scientific research, adds: “It’s proved a fabulous career, however. You get to think about the big things, meet fascinating people from around the world and play with really big toys.” 

Among those favourite toys is the Extremely Large Telescope under construction in Chile that he’s just visited. When finished, it will be the world’s biggest, with a 39m diameter; 10 times the diameter of the 1974 Anglo-Australian Telescope near Coonabarabran in country NSW he cajoled his parents into taking him to see as a child. “When scientists like myself started, we didn’t realise that only 5% of the universe was visible,” says Matthew. “The other 95% is unknown stuff but we’re making good progress. I’d love to know those answers!” 

Alex Perry, 61

Surviving (let alone thriving) in the glamorous yet cut-throat world of fashion, few Australian designers have succeeded like Alex – and after more than 30 years in the industry, he has no plans to slow down. “It’s not in my nature to sit back and rest on my laurels,” he says. “For me, it’s about amping it up, keeping it new, making sure we, as a brand, don’t become complacent.” 

Alex opened his first shop in Sydney’s Kensington in 1992 and made his mark in made-to-measure wedding dresses in the mid-2000s, becoming a household name in 2005 as judge on Australia's Next Top Model for its 10-year run. He has also collaborated with Specsavers on a signature sunglasses range since 2012. 

His collections are synonymous with celebrity and style, selling in luxury retailers across the globe and worn by some of the world’s most beautiful women, including Mary of Denmark, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow. “Proportion and fit is everything to me. I like my clothes to be transformative,” says Alex. “It has to have a sense of drama, and I want it to transform the wearer, make them feel beautiful and unbelievably confident.”  

Julia Gillard, 62

From becoming Australia’s first – and so far only – female prime minister to improving the lives of girls and women worldwide, Julia continues to be a force for change. She’s the founder and chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, which addresses the under-representation of women in leadership – very fitting for a woman who made waves with that powerful misogyny speech in 2012. “Discussion of gender is now much more common,” she says. “That gives me a lot of heart because we only change big things in our world by talking about them and getting the energy together for the change.” 

Last year Julia stepped down as chair of mental health organisation Beyond Blue but remains a patron. She also serves as chair of Wellcome, which supports science-based solutions to urgent global health challenges, and is proud to be patron of CAMFED – Campaign For Female Education, a Pan-African movement supporting girls to thrive at school and beyond. 

“Because I got a great quality education at local government schools, I’ve had the opportunity to go on and be involved in policy-making and leadership at the highest levels,” Julia says. “I believe everyone should get a great quality education, no matter where they are on our precious planet.” 

Terry Denton, 73

Illustrator and author Terry has been giving kids (and adults alike) a laugh for more than three decades with his unique drawing style that takes readers on wild and fun-filled adventures. “I’m trying to draw quickly and make it look like I’m drawing quickly,” Terry explains. “So it seems very unskilful, but the key thing is the idea.”  

His wicked sense of humour and informed flair for what interests and amuses children shines through in his work, which includes picture books, junior novels and collaborations with top Australian authors, including Andy Griffiths. Their hugely popular Treehouse series has sold over 10 million copies in Australia and has won over 80 children’s choice awards. After 13 years of fun in the growing treehouse, the much-loved series has come to an end with the final book, The 169-Storey Treehouse, released late last year.  

With Treehouse books on the shelves in more than 35 countries, Terry’s iconic illustration style has captured the imagination of children across the globe. Andy is one of his biggest fans. “To sit beside Terry while he is drawing is amusing and mysterious in equal parts,” he says. “He seems to literally ‘think’ through the drawing process itself.” 

Jason Donovan, 55

He had his first TV spot at the age of nine, but it was his stint as teen Scott Robinson on Neighbours that catapulted Jason to international stardom. Alongside touring and selling millions of pop albums, he’s had countless TV and stage roles, most recently reprising his lead role of Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in Sydney and Melbourne. 

“What still gives me a thrill after all these years? I just love working and engaging with other performers, I still love performing live,” Jason tells DARE. “I like the fact that at my age I can approach work with a sense of confidence.” Even so, preparing to return to the stage included a regime akin to an athlete. “My body sometimes tells me I’m older, but it’s about keeping physically fit, going to the gym, swimming, stretching. I’m loving my ice baths at the moment! 

Jason says his family – including wife Angela Malloch and their three children – is everything: “I feel like all the hard work I did in my youth is paying off a bit for me now. I think one of the best things about being this age is that all you’ve experienced makes it easier to deal with life as you get older.”  

Andrew Hoy, 65

Andrew may be one of Australia’s most successful athletes, with six Olympic medals – including three gold – but the equestrian never worries he’ll become too big for his riding boots. “Working with horses keeps you humble,” he tells DARE. “They only treat you the way you treat them; they don’t have any kind of notion about what you’ve done previously. They’ll only react to you according to how you’re behaving at that particular time. So you have to build credibility and respect afresh with every animal in a clear and structured way each time.” 

Andrew, who is now based in England, is currently in training for an incredible ninth Olympics, the 2024 Games in Paris, where the equestrian events are scheduled for the magnificent grounds of Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.  

“It’s the most beautiful place and I would feel very privileged to be able to compete there,” says Andrew. “People do ask me about retirement because of my age and achievements, but if I thought about that, I couldn’t focus on what I’m doing. Instead, I prefer to concentrate on what I’m doing today and how I could be better tomorrow. I’ve never set out to make, or break, records. I just want to be the best I can be.” 

Naomi Watts, 55

Australian actor and producer Naomi is on a mission to demystify menopause after experiencing perimenopause at age 36. “Going through menopause at such a young age was not easy,” she says. “My hormones were all over the place. I remember feeling so confused and alone, like I didn’t have control over my own body.” 

So in 2022 Naomi launched Stripes, a wellbeing and beauty brand with a focus on education and ditching the stigma surrounding menopause. “There was a lack of open conversation and resources to help women navigate the changes we go through,” she says. “That’s why I’m now so passionate about raising awareness and encouraging more honest conversations.” 

Known as a creative chameleon, Naomi is also making waves in her acting career, most recently playing New York socialite Barbara ‘Babe’ Paley in the TV series Feud: Capote Vs The Swans, in a critically acclaimed performance.  

Naomi, who married fellow actor Billy Crudup in New York last year, told Harper’s Bazaar she avoids travelling for roles during the school year, so she can be a hands-on mother to her teenage children Sasha and Kai, by her former partner Liev Schreiber. When she does work, she focuses on playing strong women.  

“As I get into the middle and latter part of my life, I’m just always looking for dynamic people. Look, we’re half the population, we’re living longer. Why shouldn’t these stories be just as relevant and interesting as [stories about] men of the same age?” she says. 

Marcia Hines, 69

Every morning, music legend Marcia Hines wakes up thinking how lucky she is still to be doing what she loves: producing hit albums, performing in musicals and appearing on TV as a judge on Australian Idol. “It’s just amazing to be doing all this,” she tells DARE. “It’s wonderful to remain relatively relevant! I’m having a ball, and loving being back on Australian Idol too. We’ve all grown up with it – with some people coming up to me and saying they love watching the show with their grandmothers.” 

With her latest album out in 2023 (Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collection) and a role as Teen Angel in Grease the Musical this year, Marcia still has ambitions left to fulfil. Next, she wants to sing a series of duets with artists she loves, including Tina Arena. 

“There are a lot of people I’d like to work with, whose music I enjoy,” she says. “But the sad thing is, some of those people have now passed away, like George Michael who was such a great visionary. But I love doing new things and every time my manager phones and says, ‘Have you ever considered…?’ I think, ‘Oh, goodie!’ It’s lovely to be able to keep reinventing myself.” 

Hugo Weaving, 64

One of our most acclaimed and awarded actors, Hugo is a master on screen and stage. His first television role was in 1984 miniseries Bodyline, and he made his name in major Australian films such as The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Babe, followed by international blockbusters including The Matrix trilogy and The Lord of the Rings films. 

Contributing to his success is his versatility and skill at playing roles across multiple genres, and creating characters that resonate with filmgoers. Film was his own “great educator” in his childhood, Hugo says. “I was so thrilled about the world I was entering into and learning about – and it was film that did that.” 

Despite his global fame, Hugo likes to stay local. “I do work in Australia. I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, I hate the place. I’d much rather live and work here and work on great Australian scripts.” Recent work includes streaming series Love Me and film The Rooster (he won 2024 AACTA awards for both projects) and an upcoming role in How to Make Gravy, based on Paul Kelly’s Christmas song. And with a long collaboration with the Sydney Theatre Company, Hugo is currently starring in its production of The President.  

Helen Garner, 81

She’s won most of the accolades Australia has to offer but writer Helen, in her ninth decade, is finally conquering the rest of the world. Her books have been picked up by the US and UK, and she’s now being feted by new fans. 

“I couldn’t be more astonished this has happened at such a late age,” Helen tells DARE. “It was never my ambition to be published outside my country,” adds the Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature winner and author of acclaimed novels like Monkey Grip and non-fiction works The First Stone and This House of Grief. “I like to write about small and intimate things from where I come from and not have to explain things or describe landscapes in great detail. But this is, I suppose, the icing on the cake and, while it is very surprising, it’s also a very happy thing.” 

Helen still loves writing and has just finished another book, this time about her grandson’s under-16 AFL team, which she followed for a year. “Becoming a grandmother is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” she says. “It’s brought me enormous happiness, and they’ve told me to carry on writing about them.” 

Keith Urban, 56

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, country star Keith’s love of music began in early childhood. The singer, songwriter and guitarist recorded his debut album in 1991, attracting attention on the Australian charts and a year later, he followed his dreams all the way to Nashville. It was in America that he was introduced to his wife, fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman, and the couple now have two children. 

Keith’s career in the US is going from strength to strength, with four Grammy awards, 12 studio albums and an ever-growing list of chart-topping hits and tours. He soared to even greater heights in 2023, with an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Being invited into the Hall of Fame is hands down one of the highest honours that’s ever happened to me,” says Keith. “I’ve always loved writing songs. I’ve always loved great songwriters. To be in this incredible group of songwriters is a bit surreal.” 

Keith has appeared as a judge on The Voice Australia and American Idol and is this year set to release a new studio album – his first in four years. “The songs are about hope, wild longing, working through things, and just sheer, mindless fun,” he says. 

Professor Charlie Corke, 70

Over his long career as an intensive care doctor, Professor Corke has seen countless families in their worst hours, grappling with a loved one’s serious condition, and having to make difficult decisions about their care. Realising how ill-prepared most people are for such moments, he took a lead role in creating MyValues.  

This free online service asks users a series of questions, then compiles a report expressing their wishes on end-of-life medical treatments, which can guide loved ones in making important decisions. “It makes a really difficult thing approachable, and it makes people think,” he tells DARE. “And I’ve had some really lovely feedback from people about how it’s helped them to do that.” 

Deputy chair of Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board and author of Letting Go: How to Plan for a Good Death, Professor Corke wants to empower Australians to face their final days with dignity and respect. He lectures on end-of-life decision making, and is running a hospital program to educate doctors on navigating conversations with patients about how they’d like their care to be managed if planned procedures don’t go well. “I hope that with time we all become more mature, and we recognise the need to take control and to manage end-of-life decisions.”   

Faith Agugu, 59

While working as a psychotherapist, Sydney-based Faith noticed a recurring theme among her older female patients. “They were feeling undervalued, overlooked and invisible,” she tells DARE. “I found this astounding! In my culture, becoming older is something to be celebrated. Unfortunately, it seems the westernised culture is very youth-focused and ageing is seen to be something to be ashamed of.” 

So, in 2018, the Nigerian-born, London-raised Faith founded online platform SilverSirens.org for women aged 50-plus to transform the negative stigma associated with ageing. “I wanted to build a community where women could be celebrated for who they are and what they have achieved, regardless of their age.” 

Silver Sirens hosts regular events covering topics including fitness, nutrition, menopause and alternatives to aged care facilities, as well as tackling major issues such as the homelessness crisis and loneliness.  

“My hope for the next generation is that by doing what we are doing with Silver Sirens, they will have an easier time with the concept of ageing and not fear it the way our generation was taught to fear it. That they will embrace ageing with grace and dignity because we have shown them how to.” 

Tracey Spicer, 56

When Tracey was in her 30s, she lost her job as a full-time newsreader due to maternity discrimination. It set her down the path of advocating for equity, and particularly the rights of women and girls. “The experience lit a fire in my belly that burns to this day,” she tells DARE. 

The author, broadcaster and journalist is passionate about exposing injustices against women. She became the face of the Me Too movement in Australia, bringing stories of sexual harassment and assault to the public arena. Globally, the award-winning journalist has presented documentaries on gendercide, sexual assault and the education gap in India, and interviewed survivors of domestic violence in Uganda. 

In recent years Tracey has focused on the impact of digital technology on gender inequality. Her latest book, Man-Made, spotlights the ways technology like AI perpetuates negative stereotypes about women and older people. “Chatbots in the home, like Siri, inevitably have female voices, while those in the business and finance sectors sound male,” she explains. “If an algorithm is being used to decide who gets a ventilator in hospital, it will choose a younger person every time, because they’re viewed as more valuable to a productive society.” 

Bernard Salt, 67

At a time of rapid change, the ability to forecast cultural, social and property trends is highly valuable – and leading demographer Bernard has become a household name for doing just that. From coining the phrase “the goat’s cheese curtain” to describe socioeconomic division, to sparking debate over the “smashed avocado” consumption of would-be homebuyers, his insights have led debate on what we want Australia to look like.   

Bernard, who has written six bestselling books, says his fascination with demography started early. “As a kid I questioned my parents about the Depression, about the war, about the 1950s and 1960s,” he tells DARE. “They were patient – mildly amused, I think, by my forensic interest – but soon enough I could put everything together and talk about how society had changed.” 

His insights continue to be in demand with governments and businesses – and he still loves every minute of it. Bernard believes entrepreneurship is the key to Australia’s future growth. “I don’t want the best and the brightest of Australia to be drawn to Silicon Valley,” he says. “I want businesses of scale and value to be owned and operated from within Australia.” 

Neale Whitaker, 62

For the lowdown on everything from pendants to pantries, interior design expert and TV presenter Neale is your man. His first life-defining moment was leaving the UK in 1999 for Australia, lured by the climate and the light – “It’s like Europe with all the dials turned up” – and the vibrant publishing industry. He had the formidable glossy duo of Vogue Living and Vogue Entertaining + Travel in his sights and ended up editing both, while also savouring food magazines as the founding editor of Delicious.  

His other defining moment was becoming the avuncular judge on reno blockbuster, The Block, from 2010. More recently, he also took on Foxtel’s Love It or List It, where he occupies the design hot-seat, persuading owners to ‘love’ their homes again after his inspired renovations.  

His hot homes prediction for 2024? “The Eccentric Aunt – it’s the year to stop following trends and let your individuality shine,” he tells DARE. “I love authentic interiors that tell the stories of their owners.” Having conquered print and TV, he is now also taking social media in his stride. “Social media is everything to be honest! It’s how I interact with the world.” His almost 145,000 Instagram followers would readily agree.  

Cate Blanchett, 54

From her breakthrough role in Elizabeth to her Oscar-winning turns as Katharine Hepburn in The Aviator and the eponymous lead in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, Cate has cemented herself as one of the most versatile and esteemed actresses of her generation. Her illustrious career spans decades, yet it’s Cate’s critically acclaimed role in 2022 film Tár that secured her position as the most-Oscar-nominated Australian, earning her an eighth Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of imperious conductor Lydia Tár. 

Although a work of fiction, Cate says the psychological drama is a reflection of real human qualities. “In a way, it’s about the character learning to become herself. It’s quite a lot of things we all do and say in private.”  

As well as her acting and producing roles for film and television, Cate is also a UNHCR goodwill ambassador, championing refugee causes since 2016.  

She amplified these efforts through her 2020 series Stateless, about the plight of immigrants in detention in Australia, which resonated with audiences around the world. “Once you experience the situation that people are in, then you start to make a very visual connection to the immediate trauma of those people’s experience,” says Cate. “It does shift your point of view.” 

Elle Macpherson, 60

It’s been a year of double celebrations for Australia’s original supermodel, who not only turned 60 in recent months but is also marking the 10th birthday of her wellness and supplement brand, WelleCo. “I am loving turning 60,” says Elle, who was nicknamed ‘The Body’ in her early modelling career. “I think this is the first time in my life that I feel truly seen for who I am, that I’ve settled into my authentic self.” 

Still in demand as a model, Elle, who is based in Florida, returned to Australia in January to celebrate the anniversary of WelleCo and to deliver the keynote speech at the AO Inspirational Series at the Australian Open, an annual event that celebrates women’s achievement. 

During her visit, Elle explained the inspiration behind her wellness brand was to help people. “Deep down, that was what I have always wanted my career to be about. When I turned 50, I started to feel run-down, coffee addicted, sugar addicted, putting on weight, hormonally challenged. I thought, other people must be feeling this way. Now I am so proud of my Australian company that is doing so well all over the world.” 

John Farnham, 74

In a career spanning decades, John is one of the most significant contributors to Australian music. His 1986 smash hit You’re the Voice became an anthem across the generations – even lent to last year’s referendum ‘Yes’ campaign – with its album Whispering Jack becoming Australia’s highest-selling album by an Australian artist. 

The nation was collectively shocked when in 2022 the star revealed he was undergoing surgery to have a tumour removed from his mouth following a cancer diagnosis, and relieved again after John declared he had been given the ‘all clear’ in August last year. “I am the luckiest man I know right now,” he said, adding that he would be marking the day by eating pizza. “I can’t wait to see what might be next on the menu. Bring on 2024.” 

Recovering away from the spotlight, he left it up to his sons Rob and James to attend the premiere of John Farnham: Finding the Voice, the authorised biopic that documents his early success, his very lean years and, finally, his triumphant comeback with Whispering Jack. Proving he has lost none of his influence in Australian culture, the film was named Best Documentary at the 2024 AACTA Awards. 

Adam Gilchrist, 52

Australian cricketer turned commentator Richie Benaud, who saw six decades of cricketing greats, called wicketkeeper-batsman Adam the cleanest striker he had ever seen. Fellow player Rod Marsh was no less a fan: “I never saw Bradman bat, but it’s hard to imagine he could have been any more destructive.” Cricketing bible the Wisden Almanack was more succinct about the former Australian captain, whose international playing career spanned almost two decades: “He is a breaker of wills.” 

Following his retirement from the international playing field in 2008, Adam has remained at the top of his game, working as a commentator, philanthropist and mentor. His aim, he says, is to nurture the spirit of cricket “from the ground up”.  

“What I love,” he writes in his autobiography True Colours, “is introducing kids to the game, tapping all that pure, innocent enthusiasm of taking the ball and hitting and bowling it and learning to be part of the team.” 

Inspired by past tours of India with the Australian cricket team, his current roles include being goodwill ambassador to World Vision – he has worked with the charity to provide life-saving equipment to health centres across India – and Adam has just been appointed to the advisory board of the Centre for Australia-India Relations. 

Wendy Moore, 53

Media executive and interiors expert Wendy has been influencing Australian homes and lifestyles for decades, not that she’d use that word to describe herself. “The way the word – influencer – is used now is not how I think of myself,” she tells DARE. “As a woman, in particular as a woman in business, you hope that you have some influence, but I would never have put that in my byline!”  

That byline is an impressive one: she’s director of channels and content at Foxtel, co-host of Selling Houses Australia (Wendy is currently filming her fourth series – the show’s 17th) and director of The Interiors Edit, her content and product collaboration company. She also spent several years as a judge on renovation show House Rules, and edited Home Beautiful magazine for more than a decade. 

Throughout her career, Wendy has always focused on delivering ideas and inspiration that are attainable and accessible to everyone, pushing against the myth that “you had to be rich to be stylish”. “I never wanted to do anything that’s passive or voyeuristic; it’s not looking at how other people live, it’s dreaming about how you’d like to live.” And if she can guide her audience in that direction, job done. 

Professor Frank Jotzo, 54

How do you keep your head as a climate change expert, when everyone around you seems to be losing theirs? Practise patience and understanding, environmental economist Professor Jotzo tells DARE. “You need a high degree of resilience to cope with setbacks and disappointments in general,” says the director of the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy and lead for the government’s Carbon Leakage Review. “You need a thick skin in terms of the world not acting with the urgency and resolve that the problems warrant.” 

That’s just the way the world works, he adds. “People’s attention tends to be, for obvious reasons, concentrated on more immediate problems that look simpler rather than long-term, more complex problems like climate change. You need purposeful optimism; you don’t make much progress when you dwell on the negatives. It’s better to look at the positives.” 

Among those include rapid developments of alternative energy technologies like cheaper solar batteries, wind power and the relative affordability now of electric vehicles. In addition, there’s the fact that greenhouse gas emissions, while still growing in volume, are nowhere near the doom-laden predictions of 10 to 15 years ago. “I wouldn’t say we’re cheerful overall, but there are reasons for optimism.” 

Tracy Grimshaw, 63

One of Australia’s most recognisable television faces, Tracy brought a fresh, female spin to current affairs when she replaced Ray Martin as host of Nine’s flagship series A Current Affair in 2006 after nearly a decade as co-host of Today. She quickly established herself as an outspoken and fiercely intelligent anchor who wasn’t afraid to ask the hard questions.  

Tracy hosted ACA for 17 years, charming and disarming A-listers such as Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand and Oprah Winfrey – but it was her chats with ordinary Australians living through extraordinary moments that really captured the nation’s hearts. She stepped down in 2022, explaining: “I’ve basically been a shift worker for 29 years, driving to work before dawn on Today, and driving home after dark on A Current Affair and it’s time for less of that daily obligation.”  

Now Tracy is set to return to our screens this year in the Nine series Do You Want to Live Forever? with Dr Nick Coatsworth, which examines ageing and mortality. “I really haven’t spent my life looking for the fountain of youth,” Tracy admits, “but I’m fascinated by how far people take that search, and how advanced medicine is becoming in that space. I’m a bit of a medical nerd so the research has been a pleasure.” 

Brad Fittler, 52

There’s nothing quite like sport to unite and inspire Australians. But one day, NRL star player turned coach and commentator Brad noticed that spirit wasn’t extending far beyond urban borders. Determined to change that, he set off on the HOGS National Tour, a venture that takes him and other prominent rugby league personalities from the men’s and women’s games on motorcycle tours to regional areas. 

“It all started because there were noises that bush footy was being forgotten,” he tells DARE of the tour that has now been running for more than a decade. “This allows us to get out into communities and give the country people of rugby league an experience.” 

Brad, who stepped down as head coach of the NSW rugby league team at the end of last year and is currently working in participation, football and community development for the NRL, took HOGS across the NSW border into Queensland and Victoria for the first time this year. The program hosts football-coaching clinics for children and facilitates discussions on mental health, fitness and nutrition, and last year ignited a $130,000 fundraiser for a bus for an additional needs school in Tumut, NSW. “It’s a nice way for the game to give back,” says Brad. 

Terri Irwin, 59

With her high-profile children taking on management roles at Australia Zoo, running the business and its charity causes, Terri knows her late husband Steve Irwin’s work is in safe hands. “I’m incredibly proud of Bindi and Robert as they honour Steve’s legacy and continue his conservation mission,” she tells DARE. “I feel very content knowing that everything Steve and I worked so hard for is in good hands.”  

Terri’s own focus continues to be on the protection of animals, here and abroad. “Our conservation work also includes humanitarian aid. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya we fund scholarships for students to gain a vocation, reducing the need to poach wildlife for an income. We also have several projects right here in Queensland, from research work to a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital.”  

She became a proud grandmother to granddaughter Grace in 2021. “I feel that I’m with a beautiful flower that’s growing and blossoming with each new experience that she has. Being part of Grace’s life is the greatest part of my life. And watching Bindi and Chandler experiencing parenthood is marvellous. Getting older is definitely a celebration,” Terri adds. “With a lifetime of experiences, triumphs, and some failures, older Australians have an opportunity to share their wisdom and truly benefit our community.” 

Toni Collette, 51

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Toni’s breakout role in Australian film Muriel’s Wedding, and she’s hardly slowing down. In fact, showbusiness news site Deadline Hollywood describes her as “as busy as any actor in town”. With recent multi-award-winning turns in TV hits The Power, The Staircase and Unbelievable, she’s now turning her considerable acting talents back to the big screen and has just filmed her “dream” role in Juror #2, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. 

She stars in the legal thriller alongside Nicholas Hoult, the British actor who played her son in 2002 film About a Boy. “I can’t quite believe it,” she says. “I get to work with the living legend Clint Eastwood and my former screen son sweetie Nicholas Hoult? Happy days, dreams are real!” 

Toni is also in demand from other top directors, including Bong Joon-ho, whose most recent film, Parasite, won four Oscars including Best Picture. The South Korean director called her personally to ask her to star in his forthcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17, she reveals. “He said, ‘Toni, I’ve been watching you a long time. I love your work and I want you to be in my movie.’” 

Dolly Parton

It may seem out of character for larger than-life country star Dolly Parton to know her way around a kitchen, but the 78-year-old Tennessee native has actually had a long love affair with food and released her first cookbook, Dolly’s Dixie Fixin’s, back in 2006. That book featured 125 recipes from her childhood, family members – she is one of 12 siblings – her theme park Dollywood and her travels. 

This year she’s brought out her second cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’ (named for the Hank Williams song Hey, Good Lookin’), highlighting her favourite family dishes and co-written with her younger sister Rachel, the executive director of her company and a singer, actor and songwriter in her own right. 

“God, family, music and food are the staples of my life,” Dolly writes in the book. “My sister Rachel and I come from a long line of great cooks – our Mama, our grandmothers, our aunts, cousins and so on.

“Our recipes are a reflection of who we are,” she adds. “There are some we grew up with and others we discovered in our adult lives and on travels, and some shared with us by friends or family.”

Gardening trends and tips for 2025

If you are making resolutions for the new year, don’t leave the garden out of your goals. Having a clear vision can improve your planting and design decisions, and make your outdoor spaces the best they can be, our experts explain.

With one in six Australians now living in apartments or townhouses, there’s little wonder more people want to bring a bit of the greenery they may be missing from lawns or backyards into their home. “Urban spaces are becoming smaller, so we’ll be looking this year to extend living spaces outdoors and to bring the outdoors in,” says architect, interior designer and gardener Jason Chongue. 

His big tip? “Use a series of potted plants to guide your view from indoors to outside. You can achieve this by using a ground cover, like maidenhair vine, that can grow both indoors and outdoors and will help to thread your spaces together seamlessly. Simply plant the vine below plants outside, as well as underplanting some of your indoor plants in the soil in their pots.”

But the trend is not limited to smaller dwellings. Horticulturist and Gardening Australia presenter Tammy Huynh believes people want to spend more time in their backyards. “People want to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still having access to the comforts of indoor spaces.”

She recommends equipping your outdoor living area with smart lighting and outdoor speakers, which can be discreetly integrated into the landscape.

Living with grandparent grief

With birth rates falling, increasing numbers of older people will miss out on becoming grandparents, giving rise to some complicated emotions. We explore what it’s like to confront this often unacknowledged form of loss.

When Debbie got married, motherhood was always going to be the next step. “I didn’t put any thought into it, it was just what was expected by society and family,” the 66-year-old Sydneysider recalls. Happily, she fell pregnant easily and took great joy in her role as a mother. As her son and daughter grew up, she assumed grandmotherhood would happen just as naturally, but eight years ago, her daughter, now 38, sat Debbie down to share some shocking news: she and her husband had chosen not to have children. 

“I just thought it was a phase, and that it would blow over. Then I thought as her friends had children, she’d want to do the same. But no, that didn’t sway them at all,” says Debbie, who hasn’t used her real name here, nor shared her surname, for fear of upsetting her children. Initially she tried to challenge her daughter – “I was quite blunt with her” – but when it became clear the couple were resolute about remaining child-free, crushing disappointment set in. 

Although Debbie has a 34-year-old son, he is single and has shown no inclination towards parenthood, leaving her struggling to accept that the place in her heart reserved for grandchildren may never be filled. “You can respect your children’s choices, but there is also sadness for yourself,” says Debbie.

Regret-free retirement

Retirement, like the rest of life, doesn’t come with a manual. It also happens to be complicated. So it’s really no surprise that many retirees make mistakes along the way. Whether it’s losing out on opportunities to grow superannuation in the final years of employment or missing out on life experiences for fear of running out of money, it’s not unusual for Australians to utter, “I wish I had known that sooner” when it comes to retirement. 

“One of the biggest mistakes over 50s make is to simply do nothing until it’s too late,” says financial adviser Helen Baker, founder of the On Your Own Two Feet financial advisory service and author of a series of books by the same name. “There are some opportunities that we can’t pull back,” she says. 

Take the example of her clients, David and Megan (names changed). They had been busy living life until their 60s crept up on them and they realised they didn’t have enough super to retire on. The problem was, David had just reached the point where he realised he “was done”, and didn’t have the energy to work anymore. Prior to this, they just “felt young”, Helen says. “So they hadn’t really thought that much about retirement.” David had been earning a high income but Megan hadn’t been working and had no super. Had they started planning for retirement earlier, David might have been able to explore the option of making voluntary spouse contributions. 

“There’s also my favourite piece of legislation, which is called the catch up legislation,” Helen says. “That allows you to go back, and if you have under $500,000 of super, and you haven’t met your cap in the previous five years, you can rebuild that cap.”

Trusting your gut

Australian celebrity chef Tobie Puttock is such close friends with British cooking star Jamie Oliver that he calls him “my brother from another mother”. The pair met when they worked together at landmark London restaurant The River Cafe in the late 1990s, and Tobie, now 50, went on to help Jamie launch his famous Fifteen restaurants in London and Melbourne. 

Since then Tobie, who is based in Melbourne with his wife Georgia and their daughter Birdie, has written five cookbooks and made a string of TV appearances, including on Jamie’s Kitchen and My Kitchen Rules. But as he tells host James Valentine on the fifth season of the award-winning podcast from Australian Seniors, Life’s Booming: Is This Normal?, one of his key missions is to get the balance right between great tasting food and healthy eating – benefiting the gut at the same time.

“Being in food for my career, with my whole life revolving around food, I see things jumping in and out of fashion and gut health has been a huge, fashionable topic for a long time,” says Tobie. But now he’s seen it move beyond fashion or fad into the realm of fact. “People accept that your gut is super important and eating the right foods and gut health really can make a huge difference to your life.”

His interest in gut health is personal, dating back to the time when he first got together with Georgia. “My wife, when we first met, was very controlled by her stomach issues, all tied in with the gut. She had food poisoning when she was younger so badly she was hospitalised for a few days (not from my cooking – I didn’t know her at this stage!) and it really screwed her gut up."

Healthy competition

When she is working out at her local gym, running through the park on a Sunday or competing in a sporting event, people often approach Sharon Chadwick to say how amazed they are at her strength, her speed and her skill. It took her aback at first, but now she has become used to their compliments. 

“But the best thing is when they come up and say they thought they couldn’t do something, then they saw me do it, and decided to have a go,” laughs Sharon. “And often they’ve surprised even themselves by being able to do it. That’s the best feeling!” 

For Sharon is no ordinary athlete. For a start, she was told at the age of 18, after a terrible car accident, that she’d never walk again. But today, at the age of 73, she’s running, jumping, lifting huge weights and pulling many more, and along the way smashing many of her own fitness goals – as well as the expectations of others. 

“I hear a lot of people, often much younger than me, making all sorts of excuses for not exercising,” says Melbourne-based Sharon, who has become one of the oldest Australian participants in the global indoor fitness competition Hyrox, which involves a combination of running and workout station activities, like rowing and kettleball carrying.

“They say they’ve got something wrong with them, and they can’t do things. But you have to keep fit and active. “I’ve got arthritis in my hands and in my right hip, but you just keep going and strengthen your bones and push through it. I think I’m getting stronger every day and I’ll carry on as long as I can. Even if, later, I’m in a wheelchair, I’ll take up something like wheelchair basketball!”.

Cameron Daddo

With a life and career dotted by many wonderful highs and several soul-searching lows, Cameron Daddo, 59, knows a thing or two about battles with confidence – enough to fill a book, even. Reflecting on the challenges that have led him to this point, he tells DARE he wouldn’t have it any other way.

To look at him you would think Cameron Daddo is the picture of self-confidence. Tanned from golf, open-water swimming and surfing, with a neatly trimmed beard and easy smile, that cheeky glint in his eye is still as endearing as when he first hosted Perfect Match back in the 1980s. Living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and happily married to model turned podcaster and author Alison Brahe-Daddo, his wife of 33 years, they share three grown children, who are healthy and following their dreams. And with 40 years’ experience in the acting, modelling and TV hosting game – including a 25-year stint in Hollywood – Cameron is now a seven-night-a-week DJ on Smooth FM and co-host of Foxtel’s Luxury Escapes, fabulously spending his time jet setting around the globe. So what’s not to be confident about?

Well, as far back as he can recall, Cameron – “Cam” to his mates – reveals he has had low times, considering himself a “fraud as an actor” privately, while publicly accepting two Logies for his performances, experiencing lean years as a Hollywood hopeful and having to weather family crises that were played out in the media. Yet throughout it all, he’s discovered there is power in persistence.

Rachel Ward, 66

When the notorious 2019 bushfires tore through the Nambucca Valley in NSW, just near actress and director Rachel’s family farm, she knew it was time to act. “It was a wake-up call that we’re in a serious climate challenge – what was I doing to ameliorate that?” she tells DARE. And so began her journey into regenerative farming, which, she says, “felt like an answer”.  

The practice aims to restore ecosystems, focusing on soil health, sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, boosting biodiversity and improving water management. It’s also about caring where your food comes from. As Rachel absorbed regenerative farming, she was able to put it into action on her farm, a beloved second home for her husband, actor Bryan Brown, their three children and grandchildren. And she’s had great success, creating a landscape that’s now humming with beneficial critters, abundant grasses and thriving livestock.  

Her progress was followed in a documentary, Rachel’s Farm, and she hopes to launch a paddock-to-plate business to help consumers make food decisions that benefit the environment. “I think I’m most proud of bringing environmental health back to this little pocket of land,” says Rachel. “It’s very purposeful to be on this path of finding something very positive and active to turn things around climate-wise.” 

Kieran Perkins, 50

When Australian Olympic swimmer Kieren had his first swimming lesson at school, he admits he wasn’t very good. But he enjoyed it so much, he carried on. The rest is history. “As my career went on, I chased gold medals,” he told education leaders last year. “And that’s what I’m still doing today as CEO of the Australian Sports Commission. I’m chasing gold-medal standards across the entire sports industry, from grassroots to the pinnacle of elite competition.” 

Kieren, who retired from swimming in 2000 after setting 11 world records, is now streaking ahead in the pursuit of excellence for all sportspeople Australia-wide – starting with children. “Green and gold success on the world stage is important to our national psyche,” he says. “But without a massive base of participants involved in fun, engaging activities, developing skills and a love of sport, it all falls apart.” 

His new vision is hinged on the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a program of major events on home soil that will showcase the very best of sport. “The runway to 2032 is a gift for this generation,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to unite, inspire and build the nation through sport.” 

Louise Sauvage, 50

As one of Australia’s most decorated Paralympians, Louise hasn’t put on the brakes since competing in her first IPC Athletics World Championships at the age of 16. Does she remember winning her first gold? “It feels like a long time ago – 32 years ago, at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics,” she tells DARE with a laugh.  

Louise dominated wheelchair racing for over a decade, raising the profile of Paralympic sport and scooping up multiple medals throughout her career. She retired after the Athens Paralympics in 2004 and switched to coaching young athletes, such as Madison de Rozario. “I’m probably just as competitive as I was,” she says. “But going from being an athlete to the other side as a coach is very different. You’re part of someone else’s journey, which is a big buzz for me. We’re working hard for the upcoming Paris Paralympics 2024 in August.” 

Enjoying this chapter of her career, Louise believes sporting ‘veterans’ have an important role to play in guiding rising stars. “They have a knowledge and perspective and history we can take and learn from. And that’s so important for younger athletes, to know where their sport came from and who’s come before them.” 

Professor Peter Hannaford, 84

As a child, Professor Hannaford was curious about everything and anything. Today, more than eight decades on, he is acknowledged as an award-winning global expert in his field of experimental science. “I don’t know the ‘r’ word; there’s no such thing as retirement,” he tells DARE. “I’ll always maintain an interest in science, whatever happens.” 

His work covers the length and breadth of time and space, researching chemical physics at the CSIRO for 24 years, before moving to Swinburne University of Technology in 2001 to become director of the Centre for Atom Optics and Ultrafast Spectroscopy. He remains professor emeritus at the university, and was made a Companion of the Order of Australia last year for his eminent service to science.  

Professor Hannaford has developed novel laser techniques and been involved in pioneering their application to search for mineral deposits beneath the earth’s surface and create atomic clocks that measure time with breathtaking precision – critical for synchronising activities in space. He’s currently working on ways to produce a quantum computer that, instead of processing information in space, does it in time. In-between, the professor still travels the world lecturing, speaking at conferences, and inspiring young scientists. “I love that,” he says. “It makes me feel I’m still young.” 

Judith Neilson, 78

Although Judith’s name has long been linked with art, her passion for global philanthropy is equally impressive. The Zimbabwe-born owner of Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery has invested vast sums of money into humanitarian causes, aiming to improve economic inequality in vulnerable communities in Australia and Africa. Among the causes she supports are Amnesty International, Operation Smile Australia and Ampilatwatja Health Centre Aboriginal Corporation, which provides healthcare to First Nations people in the Northern Territory. 

She also funds University of NSW research into innovative housing options for people displaced by natural disasters and conflict. “I believe anybody that is able to have a home, should be able to have one. I don’t believe that if you’re poor you should have a lesser home than somebody who’s rich,” Judith says. 

The focus of her philanthropy is helping communities become stronger. “We came here from Africa with nothing, and this country has been really good to us,” she says. “I feel very strongly about contributing to a greater culture of philanthropy in Australia, and there’s a big element of luck in being wealthy – I believe people have a responsibility to give back.” 

Brian Triglone, 78

Eight years ago, Brian watched a YouTube video of the Giving Voice Chorus, an American choir for people living with dementia. Having already drawn on his lifelong love of music to conduct community choirs, he was inspired to found a similar group in Canberra. “Alchemy Chorus is a dementia-inclusive community choir that is designed both for people living with dementia, their partner/relative or close friend, and volunteer singers,” he tells DARE.  

Alchemy Chorus has been a resounding success, sparking an alliance of similar choirs around Australia. “My initial goal was to bring some joy into the lives of couples impacted by dementia,” says Brian. “Studies have shown that musical memory remains well into the dementia journey, and is therefore something that couples can enjoy together in a non-judgemental, understanding environment when other social contacts start to diminish. Our choir members say that it’s the best day of the week.” 

Regular performance helps reinforce the importance of social inclusion, and shows that life needn’t stop with a diagnosis, says Brian, who was the 2023 ACT Senior Australian of the Year nominee. “Our concerts are a highlight and a great source of pride. There’s no greater feeling of satisfaction than to see smiling faces all around when we nail a song.” 

Professor Tom Calma, 70

When the referendum for the Voice to Parliament was defeated last October, many were disappointed, including Professor Calma, Aboriginal Elder and co-author of the Voice blueprint. But the Darwin-born social justice campaigner, a man who’s spent nearly half a century pushing for the rights, responsibilities and welfare of Indigenous people, believes we’ve got to have faith in the future – and the reconciliation efforts to come. 

“I’ve always been and always will be a glass-half-full person – I think the future is bright for our next tranche of leaders,” says Professor Calma, who retired in 2010 after a distinguished career in the Australian public service to work as a consultant, volunteer and academic. 
The 2023 Senior Australian of the Year and chancellor of the University of Canberra was appointed to the government’s Aged Care Taskforce last year, which aims to develop aged care options that are fair and equitable for all Australians. A member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, he also works to support older people in accessing culturally safe aged care. “It’s about creating empathy and respect so people can understand their treatment, medications and care that they can expect,” Professor Calma explains. 

Layne Beachley, 52

A seven-time world champion, Layne is widely regarded as the most successful female surfer in history, with a talent that shook up the male-dominated sport forever. Since her retirement in 2008, she has been inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (she was elevated to Legend status last year), and in 2023 became the first female patron of Surfing Australia, having stepped down as its chair after eight years in the role. She’s also fought for equality, supporting and mentoring young women to fulfil their potential. 

“There are many people out there who will tell you that you can’t,” she said last year. “What you must do is turn around and say, ‘Watch me’. When you’re clear on your own values, you live a life according to your own purpose. You’re no longer waiting for other people’s opinions or decisions to determine which direction you head in.” 

Layne remains passionate about helping others design a life they love, and has a new self-empowerment platform, Awake Academy. “I’m so excited for 2024 and all the exciting projects I have in the pipeline,” says Layne. “There is so much to look forward to.” 

Dr Alan Finkel, 71

Dr Finkel is hopeful that a clean energy future is within Australia’s grasp. And his latest book, Powering Up: Unleashing the Clean Energy Supply Chain, suggests how it can be done. The former Australian chief scientist is a neuroscientist, engineer, researcher, entrepreneur and policy adviser. He’s made an enormous contribution to the country’s knowledge base on energy, leading a review of Australia’s electricity market, developing the National Hydrogen Strategy and advising the government on the national Low Emissions Technology Roadmap.  

“In the pursuit of a zero-emissions future, nothing is more important than the energy system, currently responsible for nearly three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions,” he tells DARE. “If we invest in new clean technologies, the old high-emission technologies will become obsolete and disappear. The investment is huge, the commitment must be unwavering, but the pathway is clear.” 

He describes the shift to clean energy as “the most difficult economic transition in human society since the dawn of agriculture”. Yet he can see a way forward. “A low-emissions future is within our grasp as long as we all accept the need to compromise, so that the pursuit of perfection does not get in the way of the very good.” 

Alan Schwartz, 71

Entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist Alan spent some 30 years creating, acquiring and managing businesses across a diverse range of industries, including publishing, property, professional services and software. Underlying his passion for business is what he describes as “a deep commitment to family and community”, and an interest in the not-for-profit sector.  

Among a long list of successful projects is his contribution to the creation of Jewish Care – a merger of Jewish Community Services and Montefiore Homes – and his role as its inaugural president. Alan was also chair of Philanthropy Australia from 2014-2019. In 2004, Alan and his wife Carol established the Trawalla Foundation as a vehicle for the philanthropic activities of the Schwartz family, focusing on projects including gender equality, creativity, sustainability and social justice.  

He now describes his professional life as having transitioned from “entrepreneur and business builder” to “active investor, philanthropist and social activist”. His efforts were rewarded last year when he was awarded Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic endeavours, and to sustainable social benefit initiatives. And while he welcomed the recognition for his hard work, Alan says, “Community work is reward in itself.” 

Jack Hamilton, 83

Volunteers tend to work behind the scenes, and some, like Jack, give years of their life to helping others. In fact, Jack was recognised last year with the Northern Territory Chief Minister’s Volunteer of the Year Award for 38 years as the face of Northern Territory Legacy, an organisation supporting the partners and children of those who gave their lives or their health for our country. 

“It’s nice to be recognised,” he tells DARE. “I spent 36 years in the army and lost a few of my very close friends, and I supported those families as best I could. Then I joined Legacy and continued to do it – it’s been some of the most important work I’ve done.”  

For Jack, that means making sure beneficiaries are catered for in the absence of a spouse or parent. He’s also done countless fundraising and guided new volunteers through the Legacy ranks. And while he’ll still be knocking about NT Legacy HQ, he says he is scaling down. “I’m keen to spend more time with the family and with my wife – we realised we haven’t seen a lot of Australia, so we’ve got a trip to plan!” 

Dr Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann, 70s

Teacher, artist and respected Elder, Dr Ungunmerr Baumann has dedicated her life to educating children and helping them connect with their culture. In 1975 she became the Northern Territory’s first fully-qualified Aboriginal teacher, and has been a support to the community through her long-term work with St Francis Xavier Catholic School on the Daly River, 250km south of Darwin. It’s here that she was a teacher then principal, before being appointed to the federal government’s National Indigenous Council. In 2013 she established the Miriam Rose Foundation to bridge the divide between Aboriginal culture and mainstream society.  

“Being an educator is my proudest achievement because we integrated cultural education, which continually helped and taught our young people about the traditions, identity and their stories,” Dr Ungunmerr Baumann tells DARE. Today, the 2021 Senior Australian of the Year continues to support the school community in Daly River, acting as a “leaning post for everyone who needs support and guidance in educating our children”. 

“I continue working closely with the local school and teachers who come to us as guests on our country, helping them build a strong relationship with our local teachers and together they build a strong future for our students who grow and learn.” 

Valmai ‘Val’ Dempsey, 73

“Aunty Val”, as she is widely known, has now retired from her job as a nurse, but her lifelong commitment to caring for the community shows no signs of wavering. She joined St John Ambulance as a cadet in primary school, and having notched up more than 50 years of service, she is now one of the ACT’s longest-serving volunteers. Her responsibilities have included teaching first aid, mentoring children and advocating for the welfare of first responders. She also played a major role in coordinating St John’s response to the Black Summer fires and the pandemic.  

“I don’t suppose that the heart ever grows tired of being in that role,” she tells DARE. “You get out of the house, you get to meet people, you have a challenge, you get to share your knowledge, you get to learn more things – I learn something every time I go out.” 

Val’s community service saw her awarded Senior Australian of the Year in 2022, and she was chosen to represent Australia at the Queen’s funeral. The recognition has been “humbling”, she says. “I couldn’t be more proud because it recognises some millions of Australians who go out there every day. Australia is supported by its volunteers, and we keep the country running.” 

Patti Newton, 79

An icon of the Australian entertainment scene, Patti returns to the stage this year with a starring role in Grease the Musical, playing schoolteacher Miss Lynch in the show’s new Australian run. Devoted wife to TV legend Bert Newton for 38 years, it’s Patti’s time to shine.  

An accomplished radio, TV and theatre performer in her own right, Patti says it’s what Bert would have wanted for her after his death in 2021. “When Bert passed, I was having problems, like everybody does, and I didn't think I was ever going to succeed or get out of bed again,” she confides. “But it wouldn’t be what he’d want, he would want me to move on.” Last year, she played Bird Woman in Mary Poppins: “And now I’m so excited to do Grease.” 

Patti has some pre-show rituals that honour her late husband. “I do take Bert on stage with me every night and I have a couple of things that I do before I go on, which are very, very much him,” she says. “I bless myself before I go on, and I do a fist bump to any of the crew that’s around. They all know someone’s got to be there to do it for me.”  

Leanne Hillman, 68

The court environment can be daunting for victims and witnesses of crime, but thanks to volunteers like Leanne, vulnerable community members are extended a helping hand when they need it most. She has worked at Victims and Witnesses of Crime Court Support (VWCCS) since 2009, volunteering as a court support officer and, in more recent years, operations manager. The team is made up of trained volunteers who help victims and witnesses feel prepared, safe and comfortable when attending court proceedings to give evidence.  

“I worked with state government services for a number of years and when I retired, I was still interested in being able to give back to the community and doing some worthwhile volunteer work,” she tells DARE. “The work is enormously rewarding and I would strongly recommend people get involved in volunteering and to look at what skills they’ve got to offer.” 

Leanne’s dedication was recognised in 2023 when she was named NSW Volunteer of the Year (and also Senior Volunteer of the Year, an award sponsored by Australian Seniors). “It was a great surprise because there are so many great volunteers around, but I also have to say it was fantastically positive recognition of the work that VWCCS does. The value of that work is part of the reason for the award.” 

Nick Cave, 66

Is there anything Nick can’t do? He first made his name 40 years ago as the lead singer and songwriter with Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds but, in his five-decade career, he’s also been a score composer, a writer of books and film scripts and, most recently, a ceramic artist.  

Praised as a genius for both his words and his music, the England-based star is currently on tour in Australia, and preparing to release the first Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds album in five years. “I don’t collect ideas, I don’t write things down or get a cool title or whatever. I just make a date and sit down and start to write a record,” he says of his creative process. 

Nick has also been praised for his candid conversations around grief, following the tragic deaths of his sons Arthur (in 2015) and Jethro (in 2022). He expresses his pain in his book Faith, Hope and Carnage and on his website, The Red Hand Files, where he supports fans experiencing their own grief. “It was really with The Red Hand Files that I learned how to write about it,” he says. “Even though I couldn’t really talk about it, at least I could develop a language around grief.” 

Lillie Giang, 54

When a devastating storm hit Victoria in June 2021, hundreds of families in the Dandenong Ranges area were left either homeless or without access to food. Local chef Lillie sprang into action, setting up an emergency relief kitchen to prepare meals for the community and rescuers. This operation was the origin of Feed One Feed All, a not-for-profit founded by Lillie that now produces 700 to 900 meals a week for people experiencing homelessness, illness, financial stress and escaping violent homes. 

Catering for groups comes naturally to Lillie, who has appeared on TV cooking segments and runs a cooking school where her students include people with disabilities. “I am fortunate that I can combine my passion for food with community outreach and that I have the skills to provide sustenance to help those doing it tough,” she tells DARE. “I love food and I love sharing food.” 

Demand for Feed One Feed All continues to grow, meaning Lillie is always busy securing funding and recruiting volunteers. “I know we can’t help everyone or fix world hunger, but we can start with a bowl of rice. Together we can turn that bowl of rice into a nutritious meal and give some hope to someone who needs it.”  

Andy Penn, 60

In a time of data breaches and increasing online crime, cybersecurity is a significant challenge for Australia’s economy. So when the Minister for Home Affairs set up an expert advisory board into the federal government’s cybersecurity strategy, Andy was tapped to be chair. As the former CEO of Telstra, he has a keen interest in how organisations evolve in the digital age. “There’s no doubt that the level of cybersecurity threat has grown dramatically,” he told the ABC. “There is much more that does need to be done, and that’s just a reality of the digital world in which we live.” 

Andy, who was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his services to business, charity, youth and the arts, concluded his cybersecurity role last year, assuming a role on the Coles Group board as chair of its audit and risk committee, and an advisory position for the Quad Investors Network, a group tackling economic and security challenges in Australia, India, Japan and the US.  

“Being somebody who grew up in the UK and progressed through their career after having dropped out of school at an early age, Australia’s offered me a lot of opportunity,” he says. 

Fiona Simson, 60

In 2006, when a mining giant came knocking with plans to dig up her family’s farm, Fiona found her voice. She won a David versus Goliath-style battle to protect the Liverpool Plains area of NSW, and 10 years later became the first female president of the National Farmers’ Federation. Today, the crop and cattle producer is one of the most powerful and recognisable faces in Australian agriculture, as comfortable in Canberra as she is in her sorghum fields.  

Fiona stepped down from the NFF presidency role late last year and is credited with reinvigorating the lobby group, repositioning agriculture as innovative and future-focused, and developing the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap, to grow farming to a $100 billion industry by 2030. She also gave farmers a voice on critical national issues, such as climate change. “Farmers are not climate change denialists,” says Fiona.  

She has now been elected to the board of the World Farmers’ Organisation, representing all of Oceania. “The answer to having a say and solving problems is to be on the front foot, get involved, be positive and engaged – and to have a loud voice and a seat at the table if you really want to change the debate and the narrative,” she says. 

Chris Cuffe, 64

Well known in financial circles, Chris spent years building and running successful wealth management practices, including Colonial First State, which he took from a startup operation to become Australia’s largest investment manager during his tenure. Among other key roles, he was chair of UniSuper, a multi-billion-dollar super scheme for Australia’s higher education and research sector. 

With strong experience behind him and a curious mind, Chris explored why more wealthy Australians weren’t engaged in philanthropy. “The research showed that there were many barriers preventing people from participating in structured philanthropy,” Chris tells DARE.  

And so began his work in overcoming the hurdles, establishing and chairing Australian Philanthropic Services (APS), which helps clients manage their charitable giving using tax-efficient structures, and supports them in leaving a legacy after their death. APS has come a long way in the past 13 years, with more than 800 clients donating over $160 million to charity each year – a sizable pool of money going towards worthwhile causes and community initiatives. “While there is great benefit to the charities and the community, we find that it is our clients who gain the most benefit from engaging with the causes that matter to them,” says Chris. 

Dr Tony Press, 70

When Dr Press talks about Antarctica, his deep affection for the landscape is palpable. As adjunct professor for the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, he has spent a lot of time on the frozen continent. He vividly recalls first stepping foot on Antarctic ice after being appointed director of the Australian Antarctic Division in 1998. “Walking out across the landscape, and just having this 360-degree view of the horizon, and the vastness and the sheer scale – it’s overwhelming, really,” he tells DARE. 

Dr Press is the author of the Australian government’s Antarctic Strategic Plan and is highly respected for his scientific insights on the Southern Oceans region. Last year he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service to the environment, particularly in Antarctica and Kakadu.  

He describes Antarctica as the “engine room of the global climate”, and continues to sound the alarm about the impacts of climate change. “My hope for the future is that the governance framework, and the science that goes with it, will help us not only understand Antarctica and its role in the global climate, but also help us understand how to protect the species that live there, and protect Antarctica from climate change.” 

Professor Kerryn Phelps, 66

The outspoken GP is not afraid of a challenge. A strong leader and unwavering advocate for doctors, patients and communities, Professor Phelps is past-president of the Australian Medical Association, a former independent MP and a trusted voice in the media.  

She has dedicated much of her career to boosting health literacy, improving public health and putting important causes in the spotlight, including the health of Indigenous people, refugee rights and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities. “I’ve had this philosophy that if I’m in a position and have the ability to give attention to an important issue, then I feel a responsibility to speak up and not just sit back and quietly complain or despair,” she tells DARE. 

The doctor adds that it’s an enormous privilege to work as a GP, and among her many achievements, she is especially proud of her time leading the federal AMA and her voice in the media. Her new memoir, Power of Balance, further explores the milestones and ideas that helped shape her lifelong pursuit to create change. “I think caring deeply about the issues that you’re working on is really fundamental to maintaining your motivation and your drive.” 

Sally Morgan, 72

First Nations writer, artist, dramatist and academic, Sally has proved herself someone who changes lives – over and over again. Her seminal memoir My Place, about the Stolen Generations and her quest to discover her Indigenous roots after being told by her mother she was of Indian heritage, captured Australia’s imagination and has long been on school curriculums across the nation. It also encouraged other First Nations people to reclaim their lineage, and inspired white Australians to celebrate them. 

“I realised from talking to people that most Australians were very ignorant of Aboriginal history,” Sally has explained. “So I thought it should be communicated – it had happened here. It was also a record for my kids.” 

The former professor at the University of Western Australia has since written a multi-award-winning series of books for children, including recent releases The River, which won a 2022 Environment Award for Children’s Literature prize, and Thank You Rain!, a CBCA Book of the Year – Notables 2023 winner. Sally, who is equally renowned for her art, with dozens of works housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, has also co-written a number of books with her three children. “We can never have enough stories,” she says. 

Deborah Mailman, 51

Deborah is one of the country’s most beloved actors, with roles in movies such as The Sapphires and Paper Planes, and popular TV shows The Secret Life of Us, Offspring and Total Control, the third series of which was released earlier in the year. But while she was also the first Aboriginal actor to win the Best Actress AFI Award in 1998 – she’s since won multiple acting prizes across both TV and film – she doesn’t really see herself as a trailblazer.  

“When I look back at the body of work I’ve done over the years, I feel really proud, and I do hope that will open doors for others,” she tells DARE. “All that work, and the various roles I’ve played, will hopefully prove inspirational for other young actors. I’m lucky in that I’ve had the opportunity to play some wonderful characters. Age often brings more interesting and eclectic ones, and more confidence.” 

Deborah wants to continue acting for as long as she’s in demand. “You’ve got to enjoy it and love it, otherwise it’s just too hard an industry to be in. I take everything as it comes, but I would love to do a bit more comedy. I think we all need a good laugh these days!” 

Professor Matthew Colless, 63

Professor Colless became an astronomer and astrophysicist because he wanted to find out the answers to the really big questions in life. “I wanted to know things like where we came from and where we’re going,” he tells DARE. “But every question you answer, throws up a new set of questions.”  

The distinguished professor at the ANU’s Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, who last year was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for service to scientific research, adds: “It’s proved a fabulous career, however. You get to think about the big things, meet fascinating people from around the world and play with really big toys.” 

Among those favourite toys is the Extremely Large Telescope under construction in Chile that he’s just visited. When finished, it will be the world’s biggest, with a 39m diameter; 10 times the diameter of the 1974 Anglo-Australian Telescope near Coonabarabran in country NSW he cajoled his parents into taking him to see as a child. “When scientists like myself started, we didn’t realise that only 5% of the universe was visible,” says Matthew. “The other 95% is unknown stuff but we’re making good progress. I’d love to know those answers!” 

Alex Perry, 61

Surviving (let alone thriving) in the glamorous yet cut-throat world of fashion, few Australian designers have succeeded like Alex – and after more than 30 years in the industry, he has no plans to slow down. “It’s not in my nature to sit back and rest on my laurels,” he says. “For me, it’s about amping it up, keeping it new, making sure we, as a brand, don’t become complacent.” 

Alex opened his first shop in Sydney’s Kensington in 1992 and made his mark in made-to-measure wedding dresses in the mid-2000s, becoming a household name in 2005 as judge on Australia's Next Top Model for its 10-year run. He has also collaborated with Specsavers on a signature sunglasses range since 2012. 

His collections are synonymous with celebrity and style, selling in luxury retailers across the globe and worn by some of the world’s most beautiful women, including Mary of Denmark, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow. “Proportion and fit is everything to me. I like my clothes to be transformative,” says Alex. “It has to have a sense of drama, and I want it to transform the wearer, make them feel beautiful and unbelievably confident.”  

Julia Gillard, 62

From becoming Australia’s first – and so far only – female prime minister to improving the lives of girls and women worldwide, Julia continues to be a force for change. She’s the founder and chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, which addresses the under-representation of women in leadership – very fitting for a woman who made waves with that powerful misogyny speech in 2012. “Discussion of gender is now much more common,” she says. “That gives me a lot of heart because we only change big things in our world by talking about them and getting the energy together for the change.” 

Last year Julia stepped down as chair of mental health organisation Beyond Blue but remains a patron. She also serves as chair of Wellcome, which supports science-based solutions to urgent global health challenges, and is proud to be patron of CAMFED – Campaign For Female Education, a Pan-African movement supporting girls to thrive at school and beyond. 

“Because I got a great quality education at local government schools, I’ve had the opportunity to go on and be involved in policy-making and leadership at the highest levels,” Julia says. “I believe everyone should get a great quality education, no matter where they are on our precious planet.” 

Terry Denton, 73

Illustrator and author Terry has been giving kids (and adults alike) a laugh for more than three decades with his unique drawing style that takes readers on wild and fun-filled adventures. “I’m trying to draw quickly and make it look like I’m drawing quickly,” Terry explains. “So it seems very unskilful, but the key thing is the idea.”  

His wicked sense of humour and informed flair for what interests and amuses children shines through in his work, which includes picture books, junior novels and collaborations with top Australian authors, including Andy Griffiths. Their hugely popular Treehouse series has sold over 10 million copies in Australia and has won over 80 children’s choice awards. After 13 years of fun in the growing treehouse, the much-loved series has come to an end with the final book, The 169-Storey Treehouse, released late last year.  

With Treehouse books on the shelves in more than 35 countries, Terry’s iconic illustration style has captured the imagination of children across the globe. Andy is one of his biggest fans. “To sit beside Terry while he is drawing is amusing and mysterious in equal parts,” he says. “He seems to literally ‘think’ through the drawing process itself.” 

Jason Donovan, 55

He had his first TV spot at the age of nine, but it was his stint as teen Scott Robinson on Neighbours that catapulted Jason to international stardom. Alongside touring and selling millions of pop albums, he’s had countless TV and stage roles, most recently reprising his lead role of Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in Sydney and Melbourne. 

“What still gives me a thrill after all these years? I just love working and engaging with other performers, I still love performing live,” Jason tells DARE. “I like the fact that at my age I can approach work with a sense of confidence.” Even so, preparing to return to the stage included a regime akin to an athlete. “My body sometimes tells me I’m older, but it’s about keeping physically fit, going to the gym, swimming, stretching. I’m loving my ice baths at the moment! 

Jason says his family – including wife Angela Malloch and their three children – is everything: “I feel like all the hard work I did in my youth is paying off a bit for me now. I think one of the best things about being this age is that all you’ve experienced makes it easier to deal with life as you get older.”  

Andrew Hoy, 65

Andrew may be one of Australia’s most successful athletes, with six Olympic medals – including three gold – but the equestrian never worries he’ll become too big for his riding boots. “Working with horses keeps you humble,” he tells DARE. “They only treat you the way you treat them; they don’t have any kind of notion about what you’ve done previously. They’ll only react to you according to how you’re behaving at that particular time. So you have to build credibility and respect afresh with every animal in a clear and structured way each time.” 

Andrew, who is now based in England, is currently in training for an incredible ninth Olympics, the 2024 Games in Paris, where the equestrian events are scheduled for the magnificent grounds of Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.  

“It’s the most beautiful place and I would feel very privileged to be able to compete there,” says Andrew. “People do ask me about retirement because of my age and achievements, but if I thought about that, I couldn’t focus on what I’m doing. Instead, I prefer to concentrate on what I’m doing today and how I could be better tomorrow. I’ve never set out to make, or break, records. I just want to be the best I can be.” 

Naomi Watts, 55

Australian actor and producer Naomi is on a mission to demystify menopause after experiencing perimenopause at age 36. “Going through menopause at such a young age was not easy,” she says. “My hormones were all over the place. I remember feeling so confused and alone, like I didn’t have control over my own body.” 

So in 2022 Naomi launched Stripes, a wellbeing and beauty brand with a focus on education and ditching the stigma surrounding menopause. “There was a lack of open conversation and resources to help women navigate the changes we go through,” she says. “That’s why I’m now so passionate about raising awareness and encouraging more honest conversations.” 

Known as a creative chameleon, Naomi is also making waves in her acting career, most recently playing New York socialite Barbara ‘Babe’ Paley in the TV series Feud: Capote Vs The Swans, in a critically acclaimed performance.  

Naomi, who married fellow actor Billy Crudup in New York last year, told Harper’s Bazaar she avoids travelling for roles during the school year, so she can be a hands-on mother to her teenage children Sasha and Kai, by her former partner Liev Schreiber. When she does work, she focuses on playing strong women.  

“As I get into the middle and latter part of my life, I’m just always looking for dynamic people. Look, we’re half the population, we’re living longer. Why shouldn’t these stories be just as relevant and interesting as [stories about] men of the same age?” she says. 

Marcia Hines, 69

Every morning, music legend Marcia Hines wakes up thinking how lucky she is still to be doing what she loves: producing hit albums, performing in musicals and appearing on TV as a judge on Australian Idol. “It’s just amazing to be doing all this,” she tells DARE. “It’s wonderful to remain relatively relevant! I’m having a ball, and loving being back on Australian Idol too. We’ve all grown up with it – with some people coming up to me and saying they love watching the show with their grandmothers.” 

With her latest album out in 2023 (Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collection) and a role as Teen Angel in Grease the Musical this year, Marcia still has ambitions left to fulfil. Next, she wants to sing a series of duets with artists she loves, including Tina Arena. 

“There are a lot of people I’d like to work with, whose music I enjoy,” she says. “But the sad thing is, some of those people have now passed away, like George Michael who was such a great visionary. But I love doing new things and every time my manager phones and says, ‘Have you ever considered…?’ I think, ‘Oh, goodie!’ It’s lovely to be able to keep reinventing myself.” 

Hugo Weaving, 64

One of our most acclaimed and awarded actors, Hugo is a master on screen and stage. His first television role was in 1984 miniseries Bodyline, and he made his name in major Australian films such as The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Babe, followed by international blockbusters including The Matrix trilogy and The Lord of the Rings films. 

Contributing to his success is his versatility and skill at playing roles across multiple genres, and creating characters that resonate with filmgoers. Film was his own “great educator” in his childhood, Hugo says. “I was so thrilled about the world I was entering into and learning about – and it was film that did that.” 

Despite his global fame, Hugo likes to stay local. “I do work in Australia. I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, I hate the place. I’d much rather live and work here and work on great Australian scripts.” Recent work includes streaming series Love Me and film The Rooster (he won 2024 AACTA awards for both projects) and an upcoming role in How to Make Gravy, based on Paul Kelly’s Christmas song. And with a long collaboration with the Sydney Theatre Company, Hugo is currently starring in its production of The President.  

Helen Garner, 81

She’s won most of the accolades Australia has to offer but writer Helen, in her ninth decade, is finally conquering the rest of the world. Her books have been picked up by the US and UK, and she’s now being feted by new fans. 

“I couldn’t be more astonished this has happened at such a late age,” Helen tells DARE. “It was never my ambition to be published outside my country,” adds the Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature winner and author of acclaimed novels like Monkey Grip and non-fiction works The First Stone and This House of Grief. “I like to write about small and intimate things from where I come from and not have to explain things or describe landscapes in great detail. But this is, I suppose, the icing on the cake and, while it is very surprising, it’s also a very happy thing.” 

Helen still loves writing and has just finished another book, this time about her grandson’s under-16 AFL team, which she followed for a year. “Becoming a grandmother is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” she says. “It’s brought me enormous happiness, and they’ve told me to carry on writing about them.” 

Keith Urban, 56

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, country star Keith’s love of music began in early childhood. The singer, songwriter and guitarist recorded his debut album in 1991, attracting attention on the Australian charts and a year later, he followed his dreams all the way to Nashville. It was in America that he was introduced to his wife, fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman, and the couple now have two children. 

Keith’s career in the US is going from strength to strength, with four Grammy awards, 12 studio albums and an ever-growing list of chart-topping hits and tours. He soared to even greater heights in 2023, with an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Being invited into the Hall of Fame is hands down one of the highest honours that’s ever happened to me,” says Keith. “I’ve always loved writing songs. I’ve always loved great songwriters. To be in this incredible group of songwriters is a bit surreal.” 

Keith has appeared as a judge on The Voice Australia and American Idol and is this year set to release a new studio album – his first in four years. “The songs are about hope, wild longing, working through things, and just sheer, mindless fun,” he says. 

Professor Charlie Corke, 70

Over his long career as an intensive care doctor, Professor Corke has seen countless families in their worst hours, grappling with a loved one’s serious condition, and having to make difficult decisions about their care. Realising how ill-prepared most people are for such moments, he took a lead role in creating MyValues.  

This free online service asks users a series of questions, then compiles a report expressing their wishes on end-of-life medical treatments, which can guide loved ones in making important decisions. “It makes a really difficult thing approachable, and it makes people think,” he tells DARE. “And I’ve had some really lovely feedback from people about how it’s helped them to do that.” 

Deputy chair of Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board and author of Letting Go: How to Plan for a Good Death, Professor Corke wants to empower Australians to face their final days with dignity and respect. He lectures on end-of-life decision making, and is running a hospital program to educate doctors on navigating conversations with patients about how they’d like their care to be managed if planned procedures don’t go well. “I hope that with time we all become more mature, and we recognise the need to take control and to manage end-of-life decisions.”   

Faith Agugu, 59

While working as a psychotherapist, Sydney-based Faith noticed a recurring theme among her older female patients. “They were feeling undervalued, overlooked and invisible,” she tells DARE. “I found this astounding! In my culture, becoming older is something to be celebrated. Unfortunately, it seems the westernised culture is very youth-focused and ageing is seen to be something to be ashamed of.” 

So, in 2018, the Nigerian-born, London-raised Faith founded online platform SilverSirens.org for women aged 50-plus to transform the negative stigma associated with ageing. “I wanted to build a community where women could be celebrated for who they are and what they have achieved, regardless of their age.” 

Silver Sirens hosts regular events covering topics including fitness, nutrition, menopause and alternatives to aged care facilities, as well as tackling major issues such as the homelessness crisis and loneliness.  

“My hope for the next generation is that by doing what we are doing with Silver Sirens, they will have an easier time with the concept of ageing and not fear it the way our generation was taught to fear it. That they will embrace ageing with grace and dignity because we have shown them how to.” 

Tracey Spicer, 56

When Tracey was in her 30s, she lost her job as a full-time newsreader due to maternity discrimination. It set her down the path of advocating for equity, and particularly the rights of women and girls. “The experience lit a fire in my belly that burns to this day,” she tells DARE. 

The author, broadcaster and journalist is passionate about exposing injustices against women. She became the face of the Me Too movement in Australia, bringing stories of sexual harassment and assault to the public arena. Globally, the award-winning journalist has presented documentaries on gendercide, sexual assault and the education gap in India, and interviewed survivors of domestic violence in Uganda. 

In recent years Tracey has focused on the impact of digital technology on gender inequality. Her latest book, Man-Made, spotlights the ways technology like AI perpetuates negative stereotypes about women and older people. “Chatbots in the home, like Siri, inevitably have female voices, while those in the business and finance sectors sound male,” she explains. “If an algorithm is being used to decide who gets a ventilator in hospital, it will choose a younger person every time, because they’re viewed as more valuable to a productive society.” 

Bernard Salt, 67

At a time of rapid change, the ability to forecast cultural, social and property trends is highly valuable – and leading demographer Bernard has become a household name for doing just that. From coining the phrase “the goat’s cheese curtain” to describe socioeconomic division, to sparking debate over the “smashed avocado” consumption of would-be homebuyers, his insights have led debate on what we want Australia to look like.   

Bernard, who has written six bestselling books, says his fascination with demography started early. “As a kid I questioned my parents about the Depression, about the war, about the 1950s and 1960s,” he tells DARE. “They were patient – mildly amused, I think, by my forensic interest – but soon enough I could put everything together and talk about how society had changed.” 

His insights continue to be in demand with governments and businesses – and he still loves every minute of it. Bernard believes entrepreneurship is the key to Australia’s future growth. “I don’t want the best and the brightest of Australia to be drawn to Silicon Valley,” he says. “I want businesses of scale and value to be owned and operated from within Australia.” 

Neale Whitaker, 62

For the lowdown on everything from pendants to pantries, interior design expert and TV presenter Neale is your man. His first life-defining moment was leaving the UK in 1999 for Australia, lured by the climate and the light – “It’s like Europe with all the dials turned up” – and the vibrant publishing industry. He had the formidable glossy duo of Vogue Living and Vogue Entertaining + Travel in his sights and ended up editing both, while also savouring food magazines as the founding editor of Delicious.  

His other defining moment was becoming the avuncular judge on reno blockbuster, The Block, from 2010. More recently, he also took on Foxtel’s Love It or List It, where he occupies the design hot-seat, persuading owners to ‘love’ their homes again after his inspired renovations.  

His hot homes prediction for 2024? “The Eccentric Aunt – it’s the year to stop following trends and let your individuality shine,” he tells DARE. “I love authentic interiors that tell the stories of their owners.” Having conquered print and TV, he is now also taking social media in his stride. “Social media is everything to be honest! It’s how I interact with the world.” His almost 145,000 Instagram followers would readily agree.  

Cate Blanchett, 54

From her breakthrough role in Elizabeth to her Oscar-winning turns as Katharine Hepburn in The Aviator and the eponymous lead in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, Cate has cemented herself as one of the most versatile and esteemed actresses of her generation. Her illustrious career spans decades, yet it’s Cate’s critically acclaimed role in 2022 film Tár that secured her position as the most-Oscar-nominated Australian, earning her an eighth Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of imperious conductor Lydia Tár. 

Although a work of fiction, Cate says the psychological drama is a reflection of real human qualities. “In a way, it’s about the character learning to become herself. It’s quite a lot of things we all do and say in private.”  

As well as her acting and producing roles for film and television, Cate is also a UNHCR goodwill ambassador, championing refugee causes since 2016.  

She amplified these efforts through her 2020 series Stateless, about the plight of immigrants in detention in Australia, which resonated with audiences around the world. “Once you experience the situation that people are in, then you start to make a very visual connection to the immediate trauma of those people’s experience,” says Cate. “It does shift your point of view.” 

Elle Macpherson, 60

It’s been a year of double celebrations for Australia’s original supermodel, who not only turned 60 in recent months but is also marking the 10th birthday of her wellness and supplement brand, WelleCo. “I am loving turning 60,” says Elle, who was nicknamed ‘The Body’ in her early modelling career. “I think this is the first time in my life that I feel truly seen for who I am, that I’ve settled into my authentic self.” 

Still in demand as a model, Elle, who is based in Florida, returned to Australia in January to celebrate the anniversary of WelleCo and to deliver the keynote speech at the AO Inspirational Series at the Australian Open, an annual event that celebrates women’s achievement. 

During her visit, Elle explained the inspiration behind her wellness brand was to help people. “Deep down, that was what I have always wanted my career to be about. When I turned 50, I started to feel run-down, coffee addicted, sugar addicted, putting on weight, hormonally challenged. I thought, other people must be feeling this way. Now I am so proud of my Australian company that is doing so well all over the world.” 

John Farnham, 74

In a career spanning decades, John is one of the most significant contributors to Australian music. His 1986 smash hit You’re the Voice became an anthem across the generations – even lent to last year’s referendum ‘Yes’ campaign – with its album Whispering Jack becoming Australia’s highest-selling album by an Australian artist. 

The nation was collectively shocked when in 2022 the star revealed he was undergoing surgery to have a tumour removed from his mouth following a cancer diagnosis, and relieved again after John declared he had been given the ‘all clear’ in August last year. “I am the luckiest man I know right now,” he said, adding that he would be marking the day by eating pizza. “I can’t wait to see what might be next on the menu. Bring on 2024.” 

Recovering away from the spotlight, he left it up to his sons Rob and James to attend the premiere of John Farnham: Finding the Voice, the authorised biopic that documents his early success, his very lean years and, finally, his triumphant comeback with Whispering Jack. Proving he has lost none of his influence in Australian culture, the film was named Best Documentary at the 2024 AACTA Awards. 

Adam Gilchrist, 52

Australian cricketer turned commentator Richie Benaud, who saw six decades of cricketing greats, called wicketkeeper-batsman Adam the cleanest striker he had ever seen. Fellow player Rod Marsh was no less a fan: “I never saw Bradman bat, but it’s hard to imagine he could have been any more destructive.” Cricketing bible the Wisden Almanack was more succinct about the former Australian captain, whose international playing career spanned almost two decades: “He is a breaker of wills.” 

Following his retirement from the international playing field in 2008, Adam has remained at the top of his game, working as a commentator, philanthropist and mentor. His aim, he says, is to nurture the spirit of cricket “from the ground up”.  

“What I love,” he writes in his autobiography True Colours, “is introducing kids to the game, tapping all that pure, innocent enthusiasm of taking the ball and hitting and bowling it and learning to be part of the team.” 

Inspired by past tours of India with the Australian cricket team, his current roles include being goodwill ambassador to World Vision – he has worked with the charity to provide life-saving equipment to health centres across India – and Adam has just been appointed to the advisory board of the Centre for Australia-India Relations. 

Wendy Moore, 53

Media executive and interiors expert Wendy has been influencing Australian homes and lifestyles for decades, not that she’d use that word to describe herself. “The way the word – influencer – is used now is not how I think of myself,” she tells DARE. “As a woman, in particular as a woman in business, you hope that you have some influence, but I would never have put that in my byline!”  

That byline is an impressive one: she’s director of channels and content at Foxtel, co-host of Selling Houses Australia (Wendy is currently filming her fourth series – the show’s 17th) and director of The Interiors Edit, her content and product collaboration company. She also spent several years as a judge on renovation show House Rules, and edited Home Beautiful magazine for more than a decade. 

Throughout her career, Wendy has always focused on delivering ideas and inspiration that are attainable and accessible to everyone, pushing against the myth that “you had to be rich to be stylish”. “I never wanted to do anything that’s passive or voyeuristic; it’s not looking at how other people live, it’s dreaming about how you’d like to live.” And if she can guide her audience in that direction, job done. 

Professor Frank Jotzo, 54

How do you keep your head as a climate change expert, when everyone around you seems to be losing theirs? Practise patience and understanding, environmental economist Professor Jotzo tells DARE. “You need a high degree of resilience to cope with setbacks and disappointments in general,” says the director of the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy and lead for the government’s Carbon Leakage Review. “You need a thick skin in terms of the world not acting with the urgency and resolve that the problems warrant.” 

That’s just the way the world works, he adds. “People’s attention tends to be, for obvious reasons, concentrated on more immediate problems that look simpler rather than long-term, more complex problems like climate change. You need purposeful optimism; you don’t make much progress when you dwell on the negatives. It’s better to look at the positives.” 

Among those include rapid developments of alternative energy technologies like cheaper solar batteries, wind power and the relative affordability now of electric vehicles. In addition, there’s the fact that greenhouse gas emissions, while still growing in volume, are nowhere near the doom-laden predictions of 10 to 15 years ago. “I wouldn’t say we’re cheerful overall, but there are reasons for optimism.” 

Tracy Grimshaw, 63

One of Australia’s most recognisable television faces, Tracy brought a fresh, female spin to current affairs when she replaced Ray Martin as host of Nine’s flagship series A Current Affair in 2006 after nearly a decade as co-host of Today. She quickly established herself as an outspoken and fiercely intelligent anchor who wasn’t afraid to ask the hard questions.  

Tracy hosted ACA for 17 years, charming and disarming A-listers such as Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand and Oprah Winfrey – but it was her chats with ordinary Australians living through extraordinary moments that really captured the nation’s hearts. She stepped down in 2022, explaining: “I’ve basically been a shift worker for 29 years, driving to work before dawn on Today, and driving home after dark on A Current Affair and it’s time for less of that daily obligation.”  

Now Tracy is set to return to our screens this year in the Nine series Do You Want to Live Forever? with Dr Nick Coatsworth, which examines ageing and mortality. “I really haven’t spent my life looking for the fountain of youth,” Tracy admits, “but I’m fascinated by how far people take that search, and how advanced medicine is becoming in that space. I’m a bit of a medical nerd so the research has been a pleasure.” 

Brad Fittler, 52

There’s nothing quite like sport to unite and inspire Australians. But one day, NRL star player turned coach and commentator Brad noticed that spirit wasn’t extending far beyond urban borders. Determined to change that, he set off on the HOGS National Tour, a venture that takes him and other prominent rugby league personalities from the men’s and women’s games on motorcycle tours to regional areas. 

“It all started because there were noises that bush footy was being forgotten,” he tells DARE of the tour that has now been running for more than a decade. “This allows us to get out into communities and give the country people of rugby league an experience.” 

Brad, who stepped down as head coach of the NSW rugby league team at the end of last year and is currently working in participation, football and community development for the NRL, took HOGS across the NSW border into Queensland and Victoria for the first time this year. The program hosts football-coaching clinics for children and facilitates discussions on mental health, fitness and nutrition, and last year ignited a $130,000 fundraiser for a bus for an additional needs school in Tumut, NSW. “It’s a nice way for the game to give back,” says Brad. 

Terri Irwin, 59

With her high-profile children taking on management roles at Australia Zoo, running the business and its charity causes, Terri knows her late husband Steve Irwin’s work is in safe hands. “I’m incredibly proud of Bindi and Robert as they honour Steve’s legacy and continue his conservation mission,” she tells DARE. “I feel very content knowing that everything Steve and I worked so hard for is in good hands.”  

Terri’s own focus continues to be on the protection of animals, here and abroad. “Our conservation work also includes humanitarian aid. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya we fund scholarships for students to gain a vocation, reducing the need to poach wildlife for an income. We also have several projects right here in Queensland, from research work to a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital.”  

She became a proud grandmother to granddaughter Grace in 2021. “I feel that I’m with a beautiful flower that’s growing and blossoming with each new experience that she has. Being part of Grace’s life is the greatest part of my life. And watching Bindi and Chandler experiencing parenthood is marvellous. Getting older is definitely a celebration,” Terri adds. “With a lifetime of experiences, triumphs, and some failures, older Australians have an opportunity to share their wisdom and truly benefit our community.” 

Toni Collette, 51

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Toni’s breakout role in Australian film Muriel’s Wedding, and she’s hardly slowing down. In fact, showbusiness news site Deadline Hollywood describes her as “as busy as any actor in town”. With recent multi-award-winning turns in TV hits The Power, The Staircase and Unbelievable, she’s now turning her considerable acting talents back to the big screen and has just filmed her “dream” role in Juror #2, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. 

She stars in the legal thriller alongside Nicholas Hoult, the British actor who played her son in 2002 film About a Boy. “I can’t quite believe it,” she says. “I get to work with the living legend Clint Eastwood and my former screen son sweetie Nicholas Hoult? Happy days, dreams are real!” 

Toni is also in demand from other top directors, including Bong Joon-ho, whose most recent film, Parasite, won four Oscars including Best Picture. The South Korean director called her personally to ask her to star in his forthcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17, she reveals. “He said, ‘Toni, I’ve been watching you a long time. I love your work and I want you to be in my movie.’” 

Dolly Parton

It may seem out of character for larger than-life country star Dolly Parton to know her way around a kitchen, but the 78-year-old Tennessee native has actually had a long love affair with food and released her first cookbook, Dolly’s Dixie Fixin’s, back in 2006. That book featured 125 recipes from her childhood, family members – she is one of 12 siblings – her theme park Dollywood and her travels. 

This year she’s brought out her second cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’ (named for the Hank Williams song Hey, Good Lookin’), highlighting her favourite family dishes and co-written with her younger sister Rachel, the executive director of her company and a singer, actor and songwriter in her own right. 

“God, family, music and food are the staples of my life,” Dolly writes in the book. “My sister Rachel and I come from a long line of great cooks – our Mama, our grandmothers, our aunts, cousins and so on.

“Our recipes are a reflection of who we are,” she adds. “There are some we grew up with and others we discovered in our adult lives and on travels, and some shared with us by friends or family.”

Gardening trends and tips for 2025

If you are making resolutions for the new year, don’t leave the garden out of your goals. Having a clear vision can improve your planting and design decisions, and make your outdoor spaces the best they can be, our experts explain.

With one in six Australians now living in apartments or townhouses, there’s little wonder more people want to bring a bit of the greenery they may be missing from lawns or backyards into their home. “Urban spaces are becoming smaller, so we’ll be looking this year to extend living spaces outdoors and to bring the outdoors in,” says architect, interior designer and gardener Jason Chongue. 

His big tip? “Use a series of potted plants to guide your view from indoors to outside. You can achieve this by using a ground cover, like maidenhair vine, that can grow both indoors and outdoors and will help to thread your spaces together seamlessly. Simply plant the vine below plants outside, as well as underplanting some of your indoor plants in the soil in their pots.”

But the trend is not limited to smaller dwellings. Horticulturist and Gardening Australia presenter Tammy Huynh believes people want to spend more time in their backyards. “People want to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still having access to the comforts of indoor spaces.”

She recommends equipping your outdoor living area with smart lighting and outdoor speakers, which can be discreetly integrated into the landscape.

Living with grandparent grief

With birth rates falling, increasing numbers of older people will miss out on becoming grandparents, giving rise to some complicated emotions. We explore what it’s like to confront this often unacknowledged form of loss.

When Debbie got married, motherhood was always going to be the next step. “I didn’t put any thought into it, it was just what was expected by society and family,” the 66-year-old Sydneysider recalls. Happily, she fell pregnant easily and took great joy in her role as a mother. As her son and daughter grew up, she assumed grandmotherhood would happen just as naturally, but eight years ago, her daughter, now 38, sat Debbie down to share some shocking news: she and her husband had chosen not to have children. 

“I just thought it was a phase, and that it would blow over. Then I thought as her friends had children, she’d want to do the same. But no, that didn’t sway them at all,” says Debbie, who hasn’t used her real name here, nor shared her surname, for fear of upsetting her children. Initially she tried to challenge her daughter – “I was quite blunt with her” – but when it became clear the couple were resolute about remaining child-free, crushing disappointment set in. 

Although Debbie has a 34-year-old son, he is single and has shown no inclination towards parenthood, leaving her struggling to accept that the place in her heart reserved for grandchildren may never be filled. “You can respect your children’s choices, but there is also sadness for yourself,” says Debbie.

Regret-free retirement

Retirement, like the rest of life, doesn’t come with a manual. It also happens to be complicated. So it’s really no surprise that many retirees make mistakes along the way. Whether it’s losing out on opportunities to grow superannuation in the final years of employment or missing out on life experiences for fear of running out of money, it’s not unusual for Australians to utter, “I wish I had known that sooner” when it comes to retirement. 

“One of the biggest mistakes over 50s make is to simply do nothing until it’s too late,” says financial adviser Helen Baker, founder of the On Your Own Two Feet financial advisory service and author of a series of books by the same name. “There are some opportunities that we can’t pull back,” she says. 

Take the example of her clients, David and Megan (names changed). They had been busy living life until their 60s crept up on them and they realised they didn’t have enough super to retire on. The problem was, David had just reached the point where he realised he “was done”, and didn’t have the energy to work anymore. Prior to this, they just “felt young”, Helen says. “So they hadn’t really thought that much about retirement.” David had been earning a high income but Megan hadn’t been working and had no super. Had they started planning for retirement earlier, David might have been able to explore the option of making voluntary spouse contributions. 

“There’s also my favourite piece of legislation, which is called the catch up legislation,” Helen says. “That allows you to go back, and if you have under $500,000 of super, and you haven’t met your cap in the previous five years, you can rebuild that cap.”

Trusting your gut

Australian celebrity chef Tobie Puttock is such close friends with British cooking star Jamie Oliver that he calls him “my brother from another mother”. The pair met when they worked together at landmark London restaurant The River Cafe in the late 1990s, and Tobie, now 50, went on to help Jamie launch his famous Fifteen restaurants in London and Melbourne. 

Since then Tobie, who is based in Melbourne with his wife Georgia and their daughter Birdie, has written five cookbooks and made a string of TV appearances, including on Jamie’s Kitchen and My Kitchen Rules. But as he tells host James Valentine on the fifth season of the award-winning podcast from Australian Seniors, Life’s Booming: Is This Normal?, one of his key missions is to get the balance right between great tasting food and healthy eating – benefiting the gut at the same time.

“Being in food for my career, with my whole life revolving around food, I see things jumping in and out of fashion and gut health has been a huge, fashionable topic for a long time,” says Tobie. But now he’s seen it move beyond fashion or fad into the realm of fact. “People accept that your gut is super important and eating the right foods and gut health really can make a huge difference to your life.”

His interest in gut health is personal, dating back to the time when he first got together with Georgia. “My wife, when we first met, was very controlled by her stomach issues, all tied in with the gut. She had food poisoning when she was younger so badly she was hospitalised for a few days (not from my cooking – I didn’t know her at this stage!) and it really screwed her gut up."

Healthy competition

When she is working out at her local gym, running through the park on a Sunday or competing in a sporting event, people often approach Sharon Chadwick to say how amazed they are at her strength, her speed and her skill. It took her aback at first, but now she has become used to their compliments. 

“But the best thing is when they come up and say they thought they couldn’t do something, then they saw me do it, and decided to have a go,” laughs Sharon. “And often they’ve surprised even themselves by being able to do it. That’s the best feeling!” 

For Sharon is no ordinary athlete. For a start, she was told at the age of 18, after a terrible car accident, that she’d never walk again. But today, at the age of 73, she’s running, jumping, lifting huge weights and pulling many more, and along the way smashing many of her own fitness goals – as well as the expectations of others. 

“I hear a lot of people, often much younger than me, making all sorts of excuses for not exercising,” says Melbourne-based Sharon, who has become one of the oldest Australian participants in the global indoor fitness competition Hyrox, which involves a combination of running and workout station activities, like rowing and kettleball carrying.

“They say they’ve got something wrong with them, and they can’t do things. But you have to keep fit and active. “I’ve got arthritis in my hands and in my right hip, but you just keep going and strengthen your bones and push through it. I think I’m getting stronger every day and I’ll carry on as long as I can. Even if, later, I’m in a wheelchair, I’ll take up something like wheelchair basketball!”.

Cameron Daddo

With a life and career dotted by many wonderful highs and several soul-searching lows, Cameron Daddo, 59, knows a thing or two about battles with confidence – enough to fill a book, even. Reflecting on the challenges that have led him to this point, he tells DARE he wouldn’t have it any other way.

To look at him you would think Cameron Daddo is the picture of self-confidence. Tanned from golf, open-water swimming and surfing, with a neatly trimmed beard and easy smile, that cheeky glint in his eye is still as endearing as when he first hosted Perfect Match back in the 1980s. Living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and happily married to model turned podcaster and author Alison Brahe-Daddo, his wife of 33 years, they share three grown children, who are healthy and following their dreams. And with 40 years’ experience in the acting, modelling and TV hosting game – including a 25-year stint in Hollywood – Cameron is now a seven-night-a-week DJ on Smooth FM and co-host of Foxtel’s Luxury Escapes, fabulously spending his time jet setting around the globe. So what’s not to be confident about?

Well, as far back as he can recall, Cameron – “Cam” to his mates – reveals he has had low times, considering himself a “fraud as an actor” privately, while publicly accepting two Logies for his performances, experiencing lean years as a Hollywood hopeful and having to weather family crises that were played out in the media. Yet throughout it all, he’s discovered there is power in persistence.

Rachel Ward, 66

When the notorious 2019 bushfires tore through the Nambucca Valley in NSW, just near actress and director Rachel’s family farm, she knew it was time to act. “It was a wake-up call that we’re in a serious climate challenge – what was I doing to ameliorate that?” she tells DARE. And so began her journey into regenerative farming, which, she says, “felt like an answer”.  

The practice aims to restore ecosystems, focusing on soil health, sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, boosting biodiversity and improving water management. It’s also about caring where your food comes from. As Rachel absorbed regenerative farming, she was able to put it into action on her farm, a beloved second home for her husband, actor Bryan Brown, their three children and grandchildren. And she’s had great success, creating a landscape that’s now humming with beneficial critters, abundant grasses and thriving livestock.  

Her progress was followed in a documentary, Rachel’s Farm, and she hopes to launch a paddock-to-plate business to help consumers make food decisions that benefit the environment. “I think I’m most proud of bringing environmental health back to this little pocket of land,” says Rachel. “It’s very purposeful to be on this path of finding something very positive and active to turn things around climate-wise.” 

Kieran Perkins, 50

When Australian Olympic swimmer Kieren had his first swimming lesson at school, he admits he wasn’t very good. But he enjoyed it so much, he carried on. The rest is history. “As my career went on, I chased gold medals,” he told education leaders last year. “And that’s what I’m still doing today as CEO of the Australian Sports Commission. I’m chasing gold-medal standards across the entire sports industry, from grassroots to the pinnacle of elite competition.” 

Kieren, who retired from swimming in 2000 after setting 11 world records, is now streaking ahead in the pursuit of excellence for all sportspeople Australia-wide – starting with children. “Green and gold success on the world stage is important to our national psyche,” he says. “But without a massive base of participants involved in fun, engaging activities, developing skills and a love of sport, it all falls apart.” 

His new vision is hinged on the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a program of major events on home soil that will showcase the very best of sport. “The runway to 2032 is a gift for this generation,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to unite, inspire and build the nation through sport.” 

Louise Sauvage, 50

As one of Australia’s most decorated Paralympians, Louise hasn’t put on the brakes since competing in her first IPC Athletics World Championships at the age of 16. Does she remember winning her first gold? “It feels like a long time ago – 32 years ago, at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics,” she tells DARE with a laugh.  

Louise dominated wheelchair racing for over a decade, raising the profile of Paralympic sport and scooping up multiple medals throughout her career. She retired after the Athens Paralympics in 2004 and switched to coaching young athletes, such as Madison de Rozario. “I’m probably just as competitive as I was,” she says. “But going from being an athlete to the other side as a coach is very different. You’re part of someone else’s journey, which is a big buzz for me. We’re working hard for the upcoming Paris Paralympics 2024 in August.” 

Enjoying this chapter of her career, Louise believes sporting ‘veterans’ have an important role to play in guiding rising stars. “They have a knowledge and perspective and history we can take and learn from. And that’s so important for younger athletes, to know where their sport came from and who’s come before them.” 

Professor Peter Hannaford, 84

As a child, Professor Hannaford was curious about everything and anything. Today, more than eight decades on, he is acknowledged as an award-winning global expert in his field of experimental science. “I don’t know the ‘r’ word; there’s no such thing as retirement,” he tells DARE. “I’ll always maintain an interest in science, whatever happens.” 

His work covers the length and breadth of time and space, researching chemical physics at the CSIRO for 24 years, before moving to Swinburne University of Technology in 2001 to become director of the Centre for Atom Optics and Ultrafast Spectroscopy. He remains professor emeritus at the university, and was made a Companion of the Order of Australia last year for his eminent service to science.  

Professor Hannaford has developed novel laser techniques and been involved in pioneering their application to search for mineral deposits beneath the earth’s surface and create atomic clocks that measure time with breathtaking precision – critical for synchronising activities in space. He’s currently working on ways to produce a quantum computer that, instead of processing information in space, does it in time. In-between, the professor still travels the world lecturing, speaking at conferences, and inspiring young scientists. “I love that,” he says. “It makes me feel I’m still young.” 

Judith Neilson, 78

Although Judith’s name has long been linked with art, her passion for global philanthropy is equally impressive. The Zimbabwe-born owner of Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery has invested vast sums of money into humanitarian causes, aiming to improve economic inequality in vulnerable communities in Australia and Africa. Among the causes she supports are Amnesty International, Operation Smile Australia and Ampilatwatja Health Centre Aboriginal Corporation, which provides healthcare to First Nations people in the Northern Territory. 

She also funds University of NSW research into innovative housing options for people displaced by natural disasters and conflict. “I believe anybody that is able to have a home, should be able to have one. I don’t believe that if you’re poor you should have a lesser home than somebody who’s rich,” Judith says. 

The focus of her philanthropy is helping communities become stronger. “We came here from Africa with nothing, and this country has been really good to us,” she says. “I feel very strongly about contributing to a greater culture of philanthropy in Australia, and there’s a big element of luck in being wealthy – I believe people have a responsibility to give back.” 

Brian Triglone, 78

Eight years ago, Brian watched a YouTube video of the Giving Voice Chorus, an American choir for people living with dementia. Having already drawn on his lifelong love of music to conduct community choirs, he was inspired to found a similar group in Canberra. “Alchemy Chorus is a dementia-inclusive community choir that is designed both for people living with dementia, their partner/relative or close friend, and volunteer singers,” he tells DARE.  

Alchemy Chorus has been a resounding success, sparking an alliance of similar choirs around Australia. “My initial goal was to bring some joy into the lives of couples impacted by dementia,” says Brian. “Studies have shown that musical memory remains well into the dementia journey, and is therefore something that couples can enjoy together in a non-judgemental, understanding environment when other social contacts start to diminish. Our choir members say that it’s the best day of the week.” 

Regular performance helps reinforce the importance of social inclusion, and shows that life needn’t stop with a diagnosis, says Brian, who was the 2023 ACT Senior Australian of the Year nominee. “Our concerts are a highlight and a great source of pride. There’s no greater feeling of satisfaction than to see smiling faces all around when we nail a song.” 

Professor Tom Calma, 70

When the referendum for the Voice to Parliament was defeated last October, many were disappointed, including Professor Calma, Aboriginal Elder and co-author of the Voice blueprint. But the Darwin-born social justice campaigner, a man who’s spent nearly half a century pushing for the rights, responsibilities and welfare of Indigenous people, believes we’ve got to have faith in the future – and the reconciliation efforts to come. 

“I’ve always been and always will be a glass-half-full person – I think the future is bright for our next tranche of leaders,” says Professor Calma, who retired in 2010 after a distinguished career in the Australian public service to work as a consultant, volunteer and academic. 
The 2023 Senior Australian of the Year and chancellor of the University of Canberra was appointed to the government’s Aged Care Taskforce last year, which aims to develop aged care options that are fair and equitable for all Australians. A member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, he also works to support older people in accessing culturally safe aged care. “It’s about creating empathy and respect so people can understand their treatment, medications and care that they can expect,” Professor Calma explains. 

Layne Beachley, 52

A seven-time world champion, Layne is widely regarded as the most successful female surfer in history, with a talent that shook up the male-dominated sport forever. Since her retirement in 2008, she has been inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (she was elevated to Legend status last year), and in 2023 became the first female patron of Surfing Australia, having stepped down as its chair after eight years in the role. She’s also fought for equality, supporting and mentoring young women to fulfil their potential. 

“There are many people out there who will tell you that you can’t,” she said last year. “What you must do is turn around and say, ‘Watch me’. When you’re clear on your own values, you live a life according to your own purpose. You’re no longer waiting for other people’s opinions or decisions to determine which direction you head in.” 

Layne remains passionate about helping others design a life they love, and has a new self-empowerment platform, Awake Academy. “I’m so excited for 2024 and all the exciting projects I have in the pipeline,” says Layne. “There is so much to look forward to.” 

Dr Alan Finkel, 71

Dr Finkel is hopeful that a clean energy future is within Australia’s grasp. And his latest book, Powering Up: Unleashing the Clean Energy Supply Chain, suggests how it can be done. The former Australian chief scientist is a neuroscientist, engineer, researcher, entrepreneur and policy adviser. He’s made an enormous contribution to the country’s knowledge base on energy, leading a review of Australia’s electricity market, developing the National Hydrogen Strategy and advising the government on the national Low Emissions Technology Roadmap.  

“In the pursuit of a zero-emissions future, nothing is more important than the energy system, currently responsible for nearly three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions,” he tells DARE. “If we invest in new clean technologies, the old high-emission technologies will become obsolete and disappear. The investment is huge, the commitment must be unwavering, but the pathway is clear.” 

He describes the shift to clean energy as “the most difficult economic transition in human society since the dawn of agriculture”. Yet he can see a way forward. “A low-emissions future is within our grasp as long as we all accept the need to compromise, so that the pursuit of perfection does not get in the way of the very good.” 

Alan Schwartz, 71

Entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist Alan spent some 30 years creating, acquiring and managing businesses across a diverse range of industries, including publishing, property, professional services and software. Underlying his passion for business is what he describes as “a deep commitment to family and community”, and an interest in the not-for-profit sector.  

Among a long list of successful projects is his contribution to the creation of Jewish Care – a merger of Jewish Community Services and Montefiore Homes – and his role as its inaugural president. Alan was also chair of Philanthropy Australia from 2014-2019. In 2004, Alan and his wife Carol established the Trawalla Foundation as a vehicle for the philanthropic activities of the Schwartz family, focusing on projects including gender equality, creativity, sustainability and social justice.  

He now describes his professional life as having transitioned from “entrepreneur and business builder” to “active investor, philanthropist and social activist”. His efforts were rewarded last year when he was awarded Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic endeavours, and to sustainable social benefit initiatives. And while he welcomed the recognition for his hard work, Alan says, “Community work is reward in itself.” 

Jack Hamilton, 83

Volunteers tend to work behind the scenes, and some, like Jack, give years of their life to helping others. In fact, Jack was recognised last year with the Northern Territory Chief Minister’s Volunteer of the Year Award for 38 years as the face of Northern Territory Legacy, an organisation supporting the partners and children of those who gave their lives or their health for our country. 

“It’s nice to be recognised,” he tells DARE. “I spent 36 years in the army and lost a few of my very close friends, and I supported those families as best I could. Then I joined Legacy and continued to do it – it’s been some of the most important work I’ve done.”  

For Jack, that means making sure beneficiaries are catered for in the absence of a spouse or parent. He’s also done countless fundraising and guided new volunteers through the Legacy ranks. And while he’ll still be knocking about NT Legacy HQ, he says he is scaling down. “I’m keen to spend more time with the family and with my wife – we realised we haven’t seen a lot of Australia, so we’ve got a trip to plan!” 

Dr Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann, 70s

Teacher, artist and respected Elder, Dr Ungunmerr Baumann has dedicated her life to educating children and helping them connect with their culture. In 1975 she became the Northern Territory’s first fully-qualified Aboriginal teacher, and has been a support to the community through her long-term work with St Francis Xavier Catholic School on the Daly River, 250km south of Darwin. It’s here that she was a teacher then principal, before being appointed to the federal government’s National Indigenous Council. In 2013 she established the Miriam Rose Foundation to bridge the divide between Aboriginal culture and mainstream society.  

“Being an educator is my proudest achievement because we integrated cultural education, which continually helped and taught our young people about the traditions, identity and their stories,” Dr Ungunmerr Baumann tells DARE. Today, the 2021 Senior Australian of the Year continues to support the school community in Daly River, acting as a “leaning post for everyone who needs support and guidance in educating our children”. 

“I continue working closely with the local school and teachers who come to us as guests on our country, helping them build a strong relationship with our local teachers and together they build a strong future for our students who grow and learn.” 

Valmai ‘Val’ Dempsey, 73

“Aunty Val”, as she is widely known, has now retired from her job as a nurse, but her lifelong commitment to caring for the community shows no signs of wavering. She joined St John Ambulance as a cadet in primary school, and having notched up more than 50 years of service, she is now one of the ACT’s longest-serving volunteers. Her responsibilities have included teaching first aid, mentoring children and advocating for the welfare of first responders. She also played a major role in coordinating St John’s response to the Black Summer fires and the pandemic.  

“I don’t suppose that the heart ever grows tired of being in that role,” she tells DARE. “You get out of the house, you get to meet people, you have a challenge, you get to share your knowledge, you get to learn more things – I learn something every time I go out.” 

Val’s community service saw her awarded Senior Australian of the Year in 2022, and she was chosen to represent Australia at the Queen’s funeral. The recognition has been “humbling”, she says. “I couldn’t be more proud because it recognises some millions of Australians who go out there every day. Australia is supported by its volunteers, and we keep the country running.” 

Patti Newton, 79

An icon of the Australian entertainment scene, Patti returns to the stage this year with a starring role in Grease the Musical, playing schoolteacher Miss Lynch in the show’s new Australian run. Devoted wife to TV legend Bert Newton for 38 years, it’s Patti’s time to shine.  

An accomplished radio, TV and theatre performer in her own right, Patti says it’s what Bert would have wanted for her after his death in 2021. “When Bert passed, I was having problems, like everybody does, and I didn't think I was ever going to succeed or get out of bed again,” she confides. “But it wouldn’t be what he’d want, he would want me to move on.” Last year, she played Bird Woman in Mary Poppins: “And now I’m so excited to do Grease.” 

Patti has some pre-show rituals that honour her late husband. “I do take Bert on stage with me every night and I have a couple of things that I do before I go on, which are very, very much him,” she says. “I bless myself before I go on, and I do a fist bump to any of the crew that’s around. They all know someone’s got to be there to do it for me.”  

Leanne Hillman, 68

The court environment can be daunting for victims and witnesses of crime, but thanks to volunteers like Leanne, vulnerable community members are extended a helping hand when they need it most. She has worked at Victims and Witnesses of Crime Court Support (VWCCS) since 2009, volunteering as a court support officer and, in more recent years, operations manager. The team is made up of trained volunteers who help victims and witnesses feel prepared, safe and comfortable when attending court proceedings to give evidence.  

“I worked with state government services for a number of years and when I retired, I was still interested in being able to give back to the community and doing some worthwhile volunteer work,” she tells DARE. “The work is enormously rewarding and I would strongly recommend people get involved in volunteering and to look at what skills they’ve got to offer.” 

Leanne’s dedication was recognised in 2023 when she was named NSW Volunteer of the Year (and also Senior Volunteer of the Year, an award sponsored by Australian Seniors). “It was a great surprise because there are so many great volunteers around, but I also have to say it was fantastically positive recognition of the work that VWCCS does. The value of that work is part of the reason for the award.” 

Nick Cave, 66

Is there anything Nick can’t do? He first made his name 40 years ago as the lead singer and songwriter with Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds but, in his five-decade career, he’s also been a score composer, a writer of books and film scripts and, most recently, a ceramic artist.  

Praised as a genius for both his words and his music, the England-based star is currently on tour in Australia, and preparing to release the first Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds album in five years. “I don’t collect ideas, I don’t write things down or get a cool title or whatever. I just make a date and sit down and start to write a record,” he says of his creative process. 

Nick has also been praised for his candid conversations around grief, following the tragic deaths of his sons Arthur (in 2015) and Jethro (in 2022). He expresses his pain in his book Faith, Hope and Carnage and on his website, The Red Hand Files, where he supports fans experiencing their own grief. “It was really with The Red Hand Files that I learned how to write about it,” he says. “Even though I couldn’t really talk about it, at least I could develop a language around grief.” 

Lillie Giang, 54

When a devastating storm hit Victoria in June 2021, hundreds of families in the Dandenong Ranges area were left either homeless or without access to food. Local chef Lillie sprang into action, setting up an emergency relief kitchen to prepare meals for the community and rescuers. This operation was the origin of Feed One Feed All, a not-for-profit founded by Lillie that now produces 700 to 900 meals a week for people experiencing homelessness, illness, financial stress and escaping violent homes. 

Catering for groups comes naturally to Lillie, who has appeared on TV cooking segments and runs a cooking school where her students include people with disabilities. “I am fortunate that I can combine my passion for food with community outreach and that I have the skills to provide sustenance to help those doing it tough,” she tells DARE. “I love food and I love sharing food.” 

Demand for Feed One Feed All continues to grow, meaning Lillie is always busy securing funding and recruiting volunteers. “I know we can’t help everyone or fix world hunger, but we can start with a bowl of rice. Together we can turn that bowl of rice into a nutritious meal and give some hope to someone who needs it.”  

Andy Penn, 60

In a time of data breaches and increasing online crime, cybersecurity is a significant challenge for Australia’s economy. So when the Minister for Home Affairs set up an expert advisory board into the federal government’s cybersecurity strategy, Andy was tapped to be chair. As the former CEO of Telstra, he has a keen interest in how organisations evolve in the digital age. “There’s no doubt that the level of cybersecurity threat has grown dramatically,” he told the ABC. “There is much more that does need to be done, and that’s just a reality of the digital world in which we live.” 

Andy, who was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his services to business, charity, youth and the arts, concluded his cybersecurity role last year, assuming a role on the Coles Group board as chair of its audit and risk committee, and an advisory position for the Quad Investors Network, a group tackling economic and security challenges in Australia, India, Japan and the US.  

“Being somebody who grew up in the UK and progressed through their career after having dropped out of school at an early age, Australia’s offered me a lot of opportunity,” he says. 

Fiona Simson, 60

In 2006, when a mining giant came knocking with plans to dig up her family’s farm, Fiona found her voice. She won a David versus Goliath-style battle to protect the Liverpool Plains area of NSW, and 10 years later became the first female president of the National Farmers’ Federation. Today, the crop and cattle producer is one of the most powerful and recognisable faces in Australian agriculture, as comfortable in Canberra as she is in her sorghum fields.  

Fiona stepped down from the NFF presidency role late last year and is credited with reinvigorating the lobby group, repositioning agriculture as innovative and future-focused, and developing the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap, to grow farming to a $100 billion industry by 2030. She also gave farmers a voice on critical national issues, such as climate change. “Farmers are not climate change denialists,” says Fiona.  

She has now been elected to the board of the World Farmers’ Organisation, representing all of Oceania. “The answer to having a say and solving problems is to be on the front foot, get involved, be positive and engaged – and to have a loud voice and a seat at the table if you really want to change the debate and the narrative,” she says. 

Chris Cuffe, 64

Well known in financial circles, Chris spent years building and running successful wealth management practices, including Colonial First State, which he took from a startup operation to become Australia’s largest investment manager during his tenure. Among other key roles, he was chair of UniSuper, a multi-billion-dollar super scheme for Australia’s higher education and research sector. 

With strong experience behind him and a curious mind, Chris explored why more wealthy Australians weren’t engaged in philanthropy. “The research showed that there were many barriers preventing people from participating in structured philanthropy,” Chris tells DARE.  

And so began his work in overcoming the hurdles, establishing and chairing Australian Philanthropic Services (APS), which helps clients manage their charitable giving using tax-efficient structures, and supports them in leaving a legacy after their death. APS has come a long way in the past 13 years, with more than 800 clients donating over $160 million to charity each year – a sizable pool of money going towards worthwhile causes and community initiatives. “While there is great benefit to the charities and the community, we find that it is our clients who gain the most benefit from engaging with the causes that matter to them,” says Chris. 

Dr Tony Press, 70

When Dr Press talks about Antarctica, his deep affection for the landscape is palpable. As adjunct professor for the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, he has spent a lot of time on the frozen continent. He vividly recalls first stepping foot on Antarctic ice after being appointed director of the Australian Antarctic Division in 1998. “Walking out across the landscape, and just having this 360-degree view of the horizon, and the vastness and the sheer scale – it’s overwhelming, really,” he tells DARE. 

Dr Press is the author of the Australian government’s Antarctic Strategic Plan and is highly respected for his scientific insights on the Southern Oceans region. Last year he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service to the environment, particularly in Antarctica and Kakadu.  

He describes Antarctica as the “engine room of the global climate”, and continues to sound the alarm about the impacts of climate change. “My hope for the future is that the governance framework, and the science that goes with it, will help us not only understand Antarctica and its role in the global climate, but also help us understand how to protect the species that live there, and protect Antarctica from climate change.” 

Professor Kerryn Phelps, 66

The outspoken GP is not afraid of a challenge. A strong leader and unwavering advocate for doctors, patients and communities, Professor Phelps is past-president of the Australian Medical Association, a former independent MP and a trusted voice in the media.  

She has dedicated much of her career to boosting health literacy, improving public health and putting important causes in the spotlight, including the health of Indigenous people, refugee rights and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities. “I’ve had this philosophy that if I’m in a position and have the ability to give attention to an important issue, then I feel a responsibility to speak up and not just sit back and quietly complain or despair,” she tells DARE. 

The doctor adds that it’s an enormous privilege to work as a GP, and among her many achievements, she is especially proud of her time leading the federal AMA and her voice in the media. Her new memoir, Power of Balance, further explores the milestones and ideas that helped shape her lifelong pursuit to create change. “I think caring deeply about the issues that you’re working on is really fundamental to maintaining your motivation and your drive.” 

Sally Morgan, 72

First Nations writer, artist, dramatist and academic, Sally has proved herself someone who changes lives – over and over again. Her seminal memoir My Place, about the Stolen Generations and her quest to discover her Indigenous roots after being told by her mother she was of Indian heritage, captured Australia’s imagination and has long been on school curriculums across the nation. It also encouraged other First Nations people to reclaim their lineage, and inspired white Australians to celebrate them. 

“I realised from talking to people that most Australians were very ignorant of Aboriginal history,” Sally has explained. “So I thought it should be communicated – it had happened here. It was also a record for my kids.” 

The former professor at the University of Western Australia has since written a multi-award-winning series of books for children, including recent releases The River, which won a 2022 Environment Award for Children’s Literature prize, and Thank You Rain!, a CBCA Book of the Year – Notables 2023 winner. Sally, who is equally renowned for her art, with dozens of works housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, has also co-written a number of books with her three children. “We can never have enough stories,” she says. 

Deborah Mailman, 51

Deborah is one of the country’s most beloved actors, with roles in movies such as The Sapphires and Paper Planes, and popular TV shows The Secret Life of Us, Offspring and Total Control, the third series of which was released earlier in the year. But while she was also the first Aboriginal actor to win the Best Actress AFI Award in 1998 – she’s since won multiple acting prizes across both TV and film – she doesn’t really see herself as a trailblazer.  

“When I look back at the body of work I’ve done over the years, I feel really proud, and I do hope that will open doors for others,” she tells DARE. “All that work, and the various roles I’ve played, will hopefully prove inspirational for other young actors. I’m lucky in that I’ve had the opportunity to play some wonderful characters. Age often brings more interesting and eclectic ones, and more confidence.” 

Deborah wants to continue acting for as long as she’s in demand. “You’ve got to enjoy it and love it, otherwise it’s just too hard an industry to be in. I take everything as it comes, but I would love to do a bit more comedy. I think we all need a good laugh these days!” 

Professor Matthew Colless, 63

Professor Colless became an astronomer and astrophysicist because he wanted to find out the answers to the really big questions in life. “I wanted to know things like where we came from and where we’re going,” he tells DARE. “But every question you answer, throws up a new set of questions.”  

The distinguished professor at the ANU’s Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, who last year was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for service to scientific research, adds: “It’s proved a fabulous career, however. You get to think about the big things, meet fascinating people from around the world and play with really big toys.” 

Among those favourite toys is the Extremely Large Telescope under construction in Chile that he’s just visited. When finished, it will be the world’s biggest, with a 39m diameter; 10 times the diameter of the 1974 Anglo-Australian Telescope near Coonabarabran in country NSW he cajoled his parents into taking him to see as a child. “When scientists like myself started, we didn’t realise that only 5% of the universe was visible,” says Matthew. “The other 95% is unknown stuff but we’re making good progress. I’d love to know those answers!” 

Alex Perry, 61

Surviving (let alone thriving) in the glamorous yet cut-throat world of fashion, few Australian designers have succeeded like Alex – and after more than 30 years in the industry, he has no plans to slow down. “It’s not in my nature to sit back and rest on my laurels,” he says. “For me, it’s about amping it up, keeping it new, making sure we, as a brand, don’t become complacent.” 

Alex opened his first shop in Sydney’s Kensington in 1992 and made his mark in made-to-measure wedding dresses in the mid-2000s, becoming a household name in 2005 as judge on Australia's Next Top Model for its 10-year run. He has also collaborated with Specsavers on a signature sunglasses range since 2012. 

His collections are synonymous with celebrity and style, selling in luxury retailers across the globe and worn by some of the world’s most beautiful women, including Mary of Denmark, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow. “Proportion and fit is everything to me. I like my clothes to be transformative,” says Alex. “It has to have a sense of drama, and I want it to transform the wearer, make them feel beautiful and unbelievably confident.”  

Julia Gillard, 62

From becoming Australia’s first – and so far only – female prime minister to improving the lives of girls and women worldwide, Julia continues to be a force for change. She’s the founder and chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, which addresses the under-representation of women in leadership – very fitting for a woman who made waves with that powerful misogyny speech in 2012. “Discussion of gender is now much more common,” she says. “That gives me a lot of heart because we only change big things in our world by talking about them and getting the energy together for the change.” 

Last year Julia stepped down as chair of mental health organisation Beyond Blue but remains a patron. She also serves as chair of Wellcome, which supports science-based solutions to urgent global health challenges, and is proud to be patron of CAMFED – Campaign For Female Education, a Pan-African movement supporting girls to thrive at school and beyond. 

“Because I got a great quality education at local government schools, I’ve had the opportunity to go on and be involved in policy-making and leadership at the highest levels,” Julia says. “I believe everyone should get a great quality education, no matter where they are on our precious planet.” 

Terry Denton, 73

Illustrator and author Terry has been giving kids (and adults alike) a laugh for more than three decades with his unique drawing style that takes readers on wild and fun-filled adventures. “I’m trying to draw quickly and make it look like I’m drawing quickly,” Terry explains. “So it seems very unskilful, but the key thing is the idea.”  

His wicked sense of humour and informed flair for what interests and amuses children shines through in his work, which includes picture books, junior novels and collaborations with top Australian authors, including Andy Griffiths. Their hugely popular Treehouse series has sold over 10 million copies in Australia and has won over 80 children’s choice awards. After 13 years of fun in the growing treehouse, the much-loved series has come to an end with the final book, The 169-Storey Treehouse, released late last year.  

With Treehouse books on the shelves in more than 35 countries, Terry’s iconic illustration style has captured the imagination of children across the globe. Andy is one of his biggest fans. “To sit beside Terry while he is drawing is amusing and mysterious in equal parts,” he says. “He seems to literally ‘think’ through the drawing process itself.” 

Jason Donovan, 55

He had his first TV spot at the age of nine, but it was his stint as teen Scott Robinson on Neighbours that catapulted Jason to international stardom. Alongside touring and selling millions of pop albums, he’s had countless TV and stage roles, most recently reprising his lead role of Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in Sydney and Melbourne. 

“What still gives me a thrill after all these years? I just love working and engaging with other performers, I still love performing live,” Jason tells DARE. “I like the fact that at my age I can approach work with a sense of confidence.” Even so, preparing to return to the stage included a regime akin to an athlete. “My body sometimes tells me I’m older, but it’s about keeping physically fit, going to the gym, swimming, stretching. I’m loving my ice baths at the moment! 

Jason says his family – including wife Angela Malloch and their three children – is everything: “I feel like all the hard work I did in my youth is paying off a bit for me now. I think one of the best things about being this age is that all you’ve experienced makes it easier to deal with life as you get older.”  

Andrew Hoy, 65

Andrew may be one of Australia’s most successful athletes, with six Olympic medals – including three gold – but the equestrian never worries he’ll become too big for his riding boots. “Working with horses keeps you humble,” he tells DARE. “They only treat you the way you treat them; they don’t have any kind of notion about what you’ve done previously. They’ll only react to you according to how you’re behaving at that particular time. So you have to build credibility and respect afresh with every animal in a clear and structured way each time.” 

Andrew, who is now based in England, is currently in training for an incredible ninth Olympics, the 2024 Games in Paris, where the equestrian events are scheduled for the magnificent grounds of Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.  

“It’s the most beautiful place and I would feel very privileged to be able to compete there,” says Andrew. “People do ask me about retirement because of my age and achievements, but if I thought about that, I couldn’t focus on what I’m doing. Instead, I prefer to concentrate on what I’m doing today and how I could be better tomorrow. I’ve never set out to make, or break, records. I just want to be the best I can be.” 

Naomi Watts, 55

Australian actor and producer Naomi is on a mission to demystify menopause after experiencing perimenopause at age 36. “Going through menopause at such a young age was not easy,” she says. “My hormones were all over the place. I remember feeling so confused and alone, like I didn’t have control over my own body.” 

So in 2022 Naomi launched Stripes, a wellbeing and beauty brand with a focus on education and ditching the stigma surrounding menopause. “There was a lack of open conversation and resources to help women navigate the changes we go through,” she says. “That’s why I’m now so passionate about raising awareness and encouraging more honest conversations.” 

Known as a creative chameleon, Naomi is also making waves in her acting career, most recently playing New York socialite Barbara ‘Babe’ Paley in the TV series Feud: Capote Vs The Swans, in a critically acclaimed performance.  

Naomi, who married fellow actor Billy Crudup in New York last year, told Harper’s Bazaar she avoids travelling for roles during the school year, so she can be a hands-on mother to her teenage children Sasha and Kai, by her former partner Liev Schreiber. When she does work, she focuses on playing strong women.  

“As I get into the middle and latter part of my life, I’m just always looking for dynamic people. Look, we’re half the population, we’re living longer. Why shouldn’t these stories be just as relevant and interesting as [stories about] men of the same age?” she says. 

Marcia Hines, 69

Every morning, music legend Marcia Hines wakes up thinking how lucky she is still to be doing what she loves: producing hit albums, performing in musicals and appearing on TV as a judge on Australian Idol. “It’s just amazing to be doing all this,” she tells DARE. “It’s wonderful to remain relatively relevant! I’m having a ball, and loving being back on Australian Idol too. We’ve all grown up with it – with some people coming up to me and saying they love watching the show with their grandmothers.” 

With her latest album out in 2023 (Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collection) and a role as Teen Angel in Grease the Musical this year, Marcia still has ambitions left to fulfil. Next, she wants to sing a series of duets with artists she loves, including Tina Arena. 

“There are a lot of people I’d like to work with, whose music I enjoy,” she says. “But the sad thing is, some of those people have now passed away, like George Michael who was such a great visionary. But I love doing new things and every time my manager phones and says, ‘Have you ever considered…?’ I think, ‘Oh, goodie!’ It’s lovely to be able to keep reinventing myself.” 

Hugo Weaving, 64

One of our most acclaimed and awarded actors, Hugo is a master on screen and stage. His first television role was in 1984 miniseries Bodyline, and he made his name in major Australian films such as The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Babe, followed by international blockbusters including The Matrix trilogy and The Lord of the Rings films. 

Contributing to his success is his versatility and skill at playing roles across multiple genres, and creating characters that resonate with filmgoers. Film was his own “great educator” in his childhood, Hugo says. “I was so thrilled about the world I was entering into and learning about – and it was film that did that.” 

Despite his global fame, Hugo likes to stay local. “I do work in Australia. I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, I hate the place. I’d much rather live and work here and work on great Australian scripts.” Recent work includes streaming series Love Me and film The Rooster (he won 2024 AACTA awards for both projects) and an upcoming role in How to Make Gravy, based on Paul Kelly’s Christmas song. And with a long collaboration with the Sydney Theatre Company, Hugo is currently starring in its production of The President.  

Helen Garner, 81

She’s won most of the accolades Australia has to offer but writer Helen, in her ninth decade, is finally conquering the rest of the world. Her books have been picked up by the US and UK, and she’s now being feted by new fans. 

“I couldn’t be more astonished this has happened at such a late age,” Helen tells DARE. “It was never my ambition to be published outside my country,” adds the Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature winner and author of acclaimed novels like Monkey Grip and non-fiction works The First Stone and This House of Grief. “I like to write about small and intimate things from where I come from and not have to explain things or describe landscapes in great detail. But this is, I suppose, the icing on the cake and, while it is very surprising, it’s also a very happy thing.” 

Helen still loves writing and has just finished another book, this time about her grandson’s under-16 AFL team, which she followed for a year. “Becoming a grandmother is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” she says. “It’s brought me enormous happiness, and they’ve told me to carry on writing about them.” 

Keith Urban, 56

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, country star Keith’s love of music began in early childhood. The singer, songwriter and guitarist recorded his debut album in 1991, attracting attention on the Australian charts and a year later, he followed his dreams all the way to Nashville. It was in America that he was introduced to his wife, fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman, and the couple now have two children. 

Keith’s career in the US is going from strength to strength, with four Grammy awards, 12 studio albums and an ever-growing list of chart-topping hits and tours. He soared to even greater heights in 2023, with an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Being invited into the Hall of Fame is hands down one of the highest honours that’s ever happened to me,” says Keith. “I’ve always loved writing songs. I’ve always loved great songwriters. To be in this incredible group of songwriters is a bit surreal.” 

Keith has appeared as a judge on The Voice Australia and American Idol and is this year set to release a new studio album – his first in four years. “The songs are about hope, wild longing, working through things, and just sheer, mindless fun,” he says. 

Professor Charlie Corke, 70

Over his long career as an intensive care doctor, Professor Corke has seen countless families in their worst hours, grappling with a loved one’s serious condition, and having to make difficult decisions about their care. Realising how ill-prepared most people are for such moments, he took a lead role in creating MyValues.  

This free online service asks users a series of questions, then compiles a report expressing their wishes on end-of-life medical treatments, which can guide loved ones in making important decisions. “It makes a really difficult thing approachable, and it makes people think,” he tells DARE. “And I’ve had some really lovely feedback from people about how it’s helped them to do that.” 

Deputy chair of Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board and author of Letting Go: How to Plan for a Good Death, Professor Corke wants to empower Australians to face their final days with dignity and respect. He lectures on end-of-life decision making, and is running a hospital program to educate doctors on navigating conversations with patients about how they’d like their care to be managed if planned procedures don’t go well. “I hope that with time we all become more mature, and we recognise the need to take control and to manage end-of-life decisions.”   

Faith Agugu, 59

While working as a psychotherapist, Sydney-based Faith noticed a recurring theme among her older female patients. “They were feeling undervalued, overlooked and invisible,” she tells DARE. “I found this astounding! In my culture, becoming older is something to be celebrated. Unfortunately, it seems the westernised culture is very youth-focused and ageing is seen to be something to be ashamed of.” 

So, in 2018, the Nigerian-born, London-raised Faith founded online platform SilverSirens.org for women aged 50-plus to transform the negative stigma associated with ageing. “I wanted to build a community where women could be celebrated for who they are and what they have achieved, regardless of their age.” 

Silver Sirens hosts regular events covering topics including fitness, nutrition, menopause and alternatives to aged care facilities, as well as tackling major issues such as the homelessness crisis and loneliness.  

“My hope for the next generation is that by doing what we are doing with Silver Sirens, they will have an easier time with the concept of ageing and not fear it the way our generation was taught to fear it. That they will embrace ageing with grace and dignity because we have shown them how to.” 

Tracey Spicer, 56

When Tracey was in her 30s, she lost her job as a full-time newsreader due to maternity discrimination. It set her down the path of advocating for equity, and particularly the rights of women and girls. “The experience lit a fire in my belly that burns to this day,” she tells DARE. 

The author, broadcaster and journalist is passionate about exposing injustices against women. She became the face of the Me Too movement in Australia, bringing stories of sexual harassment and assault to the public arena. Globally, the award-winning journalist has presented documentaries on gendercide, sexual assault and the education gap in India, and interviewed survivors of domestic violence in Uganda. 

In recent years Tracey has focused on the impact of digital technology on gender inequality. Her latest book, Man-Made, spotlights the ways technology like AI perpetuates negative stereotypes about women and older people. “Chatbots in the home, like Siri, inevitably have female voices, while those in the business and finance sectors sound male,” she explains. “If an algorithm is being used to decide who gets a ventilator in hospital, it will choose a younger person every time, because they’re viewed as more valuable to a productive society.” 

Bernard Salt, 67

At a time of rapid change, the ability to forecast cultural, social and property trends is highly valuable – and leading demographer Bernard has become a household name for doing just that. From coining the phrase “the goat’s cheese curtain” to describe socioeconomic division, to sparking debate over the “smashed avocado” consumption of would-be homebuyers, his insights have led debate on what we want Australia to look like.   

Bernard, who has written six bestselling books, says his fascination with demography started early. “As a kid I questioned my parents about the Depression, about the war, about the 1950s and 1960s,” he tells DARE. “They were patient – mildly amused, I think, by my forensic interest – but soon enough I could put everything together and talk about how society had changed.” 

His insights continue to be in demand with governments and businesses – and he still loves every minute of it. Bernard believes entrepreneurship is the key to Australia’s future growth. “I don’t want the best and the brightest of Australia to be drawn to Silicon Valley,” he says. “I want businesses of scale and value to be owned and operated from within Australia.” 

Neale Whitaker, 62

For the lowdown on everything from pendants to pantries, interior design expert and TV presenter Neale is your man. His first life-defining moment was leaving the UK in 1999 for Australia, lured by the climate and the light – “It’s like Europe with all the dials turned up” – and the vibrant publishing industry. He had the formidable glossy duo of Vogue Living and Vogue Entertaining + Travel in his sights and ended up editing both, while also savouring food magazines as the founding editor of Delicious.  

His other defining moment was becoming the avuncular judge on reno blockbuster, The Block, from 2010. More recently, he also took on Foxtel’s Love It or List It, where he occupies the design hot-seat, persuading owners to ‘love’ their homes again after his inspired renovations.  

His hot homes prediction for 2024? “The Eccentric Aunt – it’s the year to stop following trends and let your individuality shine,” he tells DARE. “I love authentic interiors that tell the stories of their owners.” Having conquered print and TV, he is now also taking social media in his stride. “Social media is everything to be honest! It’s how I interact with the world.” His almost 145,000 Instagram followers would readily agree.  

Cate Blanchett, 54

From her breakthrough role in Elizabeth to her Oscar-winning turns as Katharine Hepburn in The Aviator and the eponymous lead in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, Cate has cemented herself as one of the most versatile and esteemed actresses of her generation. Her illustrious career spans decades, yet it’s Cate’s critically acclaimed role in 2022 film Tár that secured her position as the most-Oscar-nominated Australian, earning her an eighth Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of imperious conductor Lydia Tár. 

Although a work of fiction, Cate says the psychological drama is a reflection of real human qualities. “In a way, it’s about the character learning to become herself. It’s quite a lot of things we all do and say in private.”  

As well as her acting and producing roles for film and television, Cate is also a UNHCR goodwill ambassador, championing refugee causes since 2016.  

She amplified these efforts through her 2020 series Stateless, about the plight of immigrants in detention in Australia, which resonated with audiences around the world. “Once you experience the situation that people are in, then you start to make a very visual connection to the immediate trauma of those people’s experience,” says Cate. “It does shift your point of view.” 

Elle Macpherson, 60

It’s been a year of double celebrations for Australia’s original supermodel, who not only turned 60 in recent months but is also marking the 10th birthday of her wellness and supplement brand, WelleCo. “I am loving turning 60,” says Elle, who was nicknamed ‘The Body’ in her early modelling career. “I think this is the first time in my life that I feel truly seen for who I am, that I’ve settled into my authentic self.” 

Still in demand as a model, Elle, who is based in Florida, returned to Australia in January to celebrate the anniversary of WelleCo and to deliver the keynote speech at the AO Inspirational Series at the Australian Open, an annual event that celebrates women’s achievement. 

During her visit, Elle explained the inspiration behind her wellness brand was to help people. “Deep down, that was what I have always wanted my career to be about. When I turned 50, I started to feel run-down, coffee addicted, sugar addicted, putting on weight, hormonally challenged. I thought, other people must be feeling this way. Now I am so proud of my Australian company that is doing so well all over the world.” 

John Farnham, 74

In a career spanning decades, John is one of the most significant contributors to Australian music. His 1986 smash hit You’re the Voice became an anthem across the generations – even lent to last year’s referendum ‘Yes’ campaign – with its album Whispering Jack becoming Australia’s highest-selling album by an Australian artist. 

The nation was collectively shocked when in 2022 the star revealed he was undergoing surgery to have a tumour removed from his mouth following a cancer diagnosis, and relieved again after John declared he had been given the ‘all clear’ in August last year. “I am the luckiest man I know right now,” he said, adding that he would be marking the day by eating pizza. “I can’t wait to see what might be next on the menu. Bring on 2024.” 

Recovering away from the spotlight, he left it up to his sons Rob and James to attend the premiere of John Farnham: Finding the Voice, the authorised biopic that documents his early success, his very lean years and, finally, his triumphant comeback with Whispering Jack. Proving he has lost none of his influence in Australian culture, the film was named Best Documentary at the 2024 AACTA Awards. 

Adam Gilchrist, 52

Australian cricketer turned commentator Richie Benaud, who saw six decades of cricketing greats, called wicketkeeper-batsman Adam the cleanest striker he had ever seen. Fellow player Rod Marsh was no less a fan: “I never saw Bradman bat, but it’s hard to imagine he could have been any more destructive.” Cricketing bible the Wisden Almanack was more succinct about the former Australian captain, whose international playing career spanned almost two decades: “He is a breaker of wills.” 

Following his retirement from the international playing field in 2008, Adam has remained at the top of his game, working as a commentator, philanthropist and mentor. His aim, he says, is to nurture the spirit of cricket “from the ground up”.  

“What I love,” he writes in his autobiography True Colours, “is introducing kids to the game, tapping all that pure, innocent enthusiasm of taking the ball and hitting and bowling it and learning to be part of the team.” 

Inspired by past tours of India with the Australian cricket team, his current roles include being goodwill ambassador to World Vision – he has worked with the charity to provide life-saving equipment to health centres across India – and Adam has just been appointed to the advisory board of the Centre for Australia-India Relations. 

Wendy Moore, 53

Media executive and interiors expert Wendy has been influencing Australian homes and lifestyles for decades, not that she’d use that word to describe herself. “The way the word – influencer – is used now is not how I think of myself,” she tells DARE. “As a woman, in particular as a woman in business, you hope that you have some influence, but I would never have put that in my byline!”  

That byline is an impressive one: she’s director of channels and content at Foxtel, co-host of Selling Houses Australia (Wendy is currently filming her fourth series – the show’s 17th) and director of The Interiors Edit, her content and product collaboration company. She also spent several years as a judge on renovation show House Rules, and edited Home Beautiful magazine for more than a decade. 

Throughout her career, Wendy has always focused on delivering ideas and inspiration that are attainable and accessible to everyone, pushing against the myth that “you had to be rich to be stylish”. “I never wanted to do anything that’s passive or voyeuristic; it’s not looking at how other people live, it’s dreaming about how you’d like to live.” And if she can guide her audience in that direction, job done. 

Professor Frank Jotzo, 54

How do you keep your head as a climate change expert, when everyone around you seems to be losing theirs? Practise patience and understanding, environmental economist Professor Jotzo tells DARE. “You need a high degree of resilience to cope with setbacks and disappointments in general,” says the director of the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy and lead for the government’s Carbon Leakage Review. “You need a thick skin in terms of the world not acting with the urgency and resolve that the problems warrant.” 

That’s just the way the world works, he adds. “People’s attention tends to be, for obvious reasons, concentrated on more immediate problems that look simpler rather than long-term, more complex problems like climate change. You need purposeful optimism; you don’t make much progress when you dwell on the negatives. It’s better to look at the positives.” 

Among those include rapid developments of alternative energy technologies like cheaper solar batteries, wind power and the relative affordability now of electric vehicles. In addition, there’s the fact that greenhouse gas emissions, while still growing in volume, are nowhere near the doom-laden predictions of 10 to 15 years ago. “I wouldn’t say we’re cheerful overall, but there are reasons for optimism.” 

Tracy Grimshaw, 63

One of Australia’s most recognisable television faces, Tracy brought a fresh, female spin to current affairs when she replaced Ray Martin as host of Nine’s flagship series A Current Affair in 2006 after nearly a decade as co-host of Today. She quickly established herself as an outspoken and fiercely intelligent anchor who wasn’t afraid to ask the hard questions.  

Tracy hosted ACA for 17 years, charming and disarming A-listers such as Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand and Oprah Winfrey – but it was her chats with ordinary Australians living through extraordinary moments that really captured the nation’s hearts. She stepped down in 2022, explaining: “I’ve basically been a shift worker for 29 years, driving to work before dawn on Today, and driving home after dark on A Current Affair and it’s time for less of that daily obligation.”  

Now Tracy is set to return to our screens this year in the Nine series Do You Want to Live Forever? with Dr Nick Coatsworth, which examines ageing and mortality. “I really haven’t spent my life looking for the fountain of youth,” Tracy admits, “but I’m fascinated by how far people take that search, and how advanced medicine is becoming in that space. I’m a bit of a medical nerd so the research has been a pleasure.” 

Brad Fittler, 52

There’s nothing quite like sport to unite and inspire Australians. But one day, NRL star player turned coach and commentator Brad noticed that spirit wasn’t extending far beyond urban borders. Determined to change that, he set off on the HOGS National Tour, a venture that takes him and other prominent rugby league personalities from the men’s and women’s games on motorcycle tours to regional areas. 

“It all started because there were noises that bush footy was being forgotten,” he tells DARE of the tour that has now been running for more than a decade. “This allows us to get out into communities and give the country people of rugby league an experience.” 

Brad, who stepped down as head coach of the NSW rugby league team at the end of last year and is currently working in participation, football and community development for the NRL, took HOGS across the NSW border into Queensland and Victoria for the first time this year. The program hosts football-coaching clinics for children and facilitates discussions on mental health, fitness and nutrition, and last year ignited a $130,000 fundraiser for a bus for an additional needs school in Tumut, NSW. “It’s a nice way for the game to give back,” says Brad. 

Terri Irwin, 59

With her high-profile children taking on management roles at Australia Zoo, running the business and its charity causes, Terri knows her late husband Steve Irwin’s work is in safe hands. “I’m incredibly proud of Bindi and Robert as they honour Steve’s legacy and continue his conservation mission,” she tells DARE. “I feel very content knowing that everything Steve and I worked so hard for is in good hands.”  

Terri’s own focus continues to be on the protection of animals, here and abroad. “Our conservation work also includes humanitarian aid. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya we fund scholarships for students to gain a vocation, reducing the need to poach wildlife for an income. We also have several projects right here in Queensland, from research work to a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital.”  

She became a proud grandmother to granddaughter Grace in 2021. “I feel that I’m with a beautiful flower that’s growing and blossoming with each new experience that she has. Being part of Grace’s life is the greatest part of my life. And watching Bindi and Chandler experiencing parenthood is marvellous. Getting older is definitely a celebration,” Terri adds. “With a lifetime of experiences, triumphs, and some failures, older Australians have an opportunity to share their wisdom and truly benefit our community.” 

Toni Collette, 51

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Toni’s breakout role in Australian film Muriel’s Wedding, and she’s hardly slowing down. In fact, showbusiness news site Deadline Hollywood describes her as “as busy as any actor in town”. With recent multi-award-winning turns in TV hits The Power, The Staircase and Unbelievable, she’s now turning her considerable acting talents back to the big screen and has just filmed her “dream” role in Juror #2, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. 

She stars in the legal thriller alongside Nicholas Hoult, the British actor who played her son in 2002 film About a Boy. “I can’t quite believe it,” she says. “I get to work with the living legend Clint Eastwood and my former screen son sweetie Nicholas Hoult? Happy days, dreams are real!” 

Toni is also in demand from other top directors, including Bong Joon-ho, whose most recent film, Parasite, won four Oscars including Best Picture. The South Korean director called her personally to ask her to star in his forthcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17, she reveals. “He said, ‘Toni, I’ve been watching you a long time. I love your work and I want you to be in my movie.’” 

Dolly Parton

It may seem out of character for larger than-life country star Dolly Parton to know her way around a kitchen, but the 78-year-old Tennessee native has actually had a long love affair with food and released her first cookbook, Dolly’s Dixie Fixin’s, back in 2006. That book featured 125 recipes from her childhood, family members – she is one of 12 siblings – her theme park Dollywood and her travels. 

This year she’s brought out her second cookbook, Good Lookin’ Cookin’ (named for the Hank Williams song Hey, Good Lookin’), highlighting her favourite family dishes and co-written with her younger sister Rachel, the executive director of her company and a singer, actor and songwriter in her own right. 

“God, family, music and food are the staples of my life,” Dolly writes in the book. “My sister Rachel and I come from a long line of great cooks – our Mama, our grandmothers, our aunts, cousins and so on.

“Our recipes are a reflection of who we are,” she adds. “There are some we grew up with and others we discovered in our adult lives and on travels, and some shared with us by friends or family.”

Gardening trends and tips for 2025

If you are making resolutions for the new year, don’t leave the garden out of your goals. Having a clear vision can improve your planting and design decisions, and make your outdoor spaces the best they can be, our experts explain.

With one in six Australians now living in apartments or townhouses, there’s little wonder more people want to bring a bit of the greenery they may be missing from lawns or backyards into their home. “Urban spaces are becoming smaller, so we’ll be looking this year to extend living spaces outdoors and to bring the outdoors in,” says architect, interior designer and gardener Jason Chongue. 

His big tip? “Use a series of potted plants to guide your view from indoors to outside. You can achieve this by using a ground cover, like maidenhair vine, that can grow both indoors and outdoors and will help to thread your spaces together seamlessly. Simply plant the vine below plants outside, as well as underplanting some of your indoor plants in the soil in their pots.”

But the trend is not limited to smaller dwellings. Horticulturist and Gardening Australia presenter Tammy Huynh believes people want to spend more time in their backyards. “People want to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still having access to the comforts of indoor spaces.”

She recommends equipping your outdoor living area with smart lighting and outdoor speakers, which can be discreetly integrated into the landscape.

Living with grandparent grief

With birth rates falling, increasing numbers of older people will miss out on becoming grandparents, giving rise to some complicated emotions. We explore what it’s like to confront this often unacknowledged form of loss.

When Debbie got married, motherhood was always going to be the next step. “I didn’t put any thought into it, it was just what was expected by society and family,” the 66-year-old Sydneysider recalls. Happily, she fell pregnant easily and took great joy in her role as a mother. As her son and daughter grew up, she assumed grandmotherhood would happen just as naturally, but eight years ago, her daughter, now 38, sat Debbie down to share some shocking news: she and her husband had chosen not to have children. 

“I just thought it was a phase, and that it would blow over. Then I thought as her friends had children, she’d want to do the same. But no, that didn’t sway them at all,” says Debbie, who hasn’t used her real name here, nor shared her surname, for fear of upsetting her children. Initially she tried to challenge her daughter – “I was quite blunt with her” – but when it became clear the couple were resolute about remaining child-free, crushing disappointment set in. 

Although Debbie has a 34-year-old son, he is single and has shown no inclination towards parenthood, leaving her struggling to accept that the place in her heart reserved for grandchildren may never be filled. “You can respect your children’s choices, but there is also sadness for yourself,” says Debbie.

Regret-free retirement

Retirement, like the rest of life, doesn’t come with a manual. It also happens to be complicated. So it’s really no surprise that many retirees make mistakes along the way. Whether it’s losing out on opportunities to grow superannuation in the final years of employment or missing out on life experiences for fear of running out of money, it’s not unusual for Australians to utter, “I wish I had known that sooner” when it comes to retirement. 

“One of the biggest mistakes over 50s make is to simply do nothing until it’s too late,” says financial adviser Helen Baker, founder of the On Your Own Two Feet financial advisory service and author of a series of books by the same name. “There are some opportunities that we can’t pull back,” she says. 

Take the example of her clients, David and Megan (names changed). They had been busy living life until their 60s crept up on them and they realised they didn’t have enough super to retire on. The problem was, David had just reached the point where he realised he “was done”, and didn’t have the energy to work anymore. Prior to this, they just “felt young”, Helen says. “So they hadn’t really thought that much about retirement.” David had been earning a high income but Megan hadn’t been working and had no super. Had they started planning for retirement earlier, David might have been able to explore the option of making voluntary spouse contributions. 

“There’s also my favourite piece of legislation, which is called the catch up legislation,” Helen says. “That allows you to go back, and if you have under $500,000 of super, and you haven’t met your cap in the previous five years, you can rebuild that cap.”

Trusting your gut

Australian celebrity chef Tobie Puttock is such close friends with British cooking star Jamie Oliver that he calls him “my brother from another mother”. The pair met when they worked together at landmark London restaurant The River Cafe in the late 1990s, and Tobie, now 50, went on to help Jamie launch his famous Fifteen restaurants in London and Melbourne. 

Since then Tobie, who is based in Melbourne with his wife Georgia and their daughter Birdie, has written five cookbooks and made a string of TV appearances, including on Jamie’s Kitchen and My Kitchen Rules. But as he tells host James Valentine on the fifth season of the award-winning podcast from Australian Seniors, Life’s Booming: Is This Normal?, one of his key missions is to get the balance right between great tasting food and healthy eating – benefiting the gut at the same time.

“Being in food for my career, with my whole life revolving around food, I see things jumping in and out of fashion and gut health has been a huge, fashionable topic for a long time,” says Tobie. But now he’s seen it move beyond fashion or fad into the realm of fact. “People accept that your gut is super important and eating the right foods and gut health really can make a huge difference to your life.”

His interest in gut health is personal, dating back to the time when he first got together with Georgia. “My wife, when we first met, was very controlled by her stomach issues, all tied in with the gut. She had food poisoning when she was younger so badly she was hospitalised for a few days (not from my cooking – I didn’t know her at this stage!) and it really screwed her gut up."

Healthy competition

When she is working out at her local gym, running through the park on a Sunday or competing in a sporting event, people often approach Sharon Chadwick to say how amazed they are at her strength, her speed and her skill. It took her aback at first, but now she has become used to their compliments. 

“But the best thing is when they come up and say they thought they couldn’t do something, then they saw me do it, and decided to have a go,” laughs Sharon. “And often they’ve surprised even themselves by being able to do it. That’s the best feeling!” 

For Sharon is no ordinary athlete. For a start, she was told at the age of 18, after a terrible car accident, that she’d never walk again. But today, at the age of 73, she’s running, jumping, lifting huge weights and pulling many more, and along the way smashing many of her own fitness goals – as well as the expectations of others. 

“I hear a lot of people, often much younger than me, making all sorts of excuses for not exercising,” says Melbourne-based Sharon, who has become one of the oldest Australian participants in the global indoor fitness competition Hyrox, which involves a combination of running and workout station activities, like rowing and kettleball carrying.

“They say they’ve got something wrong with them, and they can’t do things. But you have to keep fit and active. “I’ve got arthritis in my hands and in my right hip, but you just keep going and strengthen your bones and push through it. I think I’m getting stronger every day and I’ll carry on as long as I can. Even if, later, I’m in a wheelchair, I’ll take up something like wheelchair basketball!”.

Cameron Daddo

With a life and career dotted by many wonderful highs and several soul-searching lows, Cameron Daddo, 59, knows a thing or two about battles with confidence – enough to fill a book, even. Reflecting on the challenges that have led him to this point, he tells DARE he wouldn’t have it any other way.

To look at him you would think Cameron Daddo is the picture of self-confidence. Tanned from golf, open-water swimming and surfing, with a neatly trimmed beard and easy smile, that cheeky glint in his eye is still as endearing as when he first hosted Perfect Match back in the 1980s. Living on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and happily married to model turned podcaster and author Alison Brahe-Daddo, his wife of 33 years, they share three grown children, who are healthy and following their dreams. And with 40 years’ experience in the acting, modelling and TV hosting game – including a 25-year stint in Hollywood – Cameron is now a seven-night-a-week DJ on Smooth FM and co-host of Foxtel’s Luxury Escapes, fabulously spending his time jet setting around the globe. So what’s not to be confident about?

Well, as far back as he can recall, Cameron – “Cam” to his mates – reveals he has had low times, considering himself a “fraud as an actor” privately, while publicly accepting two Logies for his performances, experiencing lean years as a Hollywood hopeful and having to weather family crises that were played out in the media. Yet throughout it all, he’s discovered there is power in persistence.

Rachel Ward, 66

When the notorious 2019 bushfires tore through the Nambucca Valley in NSW, just near actress and director Rachel’s family farm, she knew it was time to act. “It was a wake-up call that we’re in a serious climate challenge – what was I doing to ameliorate that?” she tells DARE. And so began her journey into regenerative farming, which, she says, “felt like an answer”.  

The practice aims to restore ecosystems, focusing on soil health, sequestering carbon from the atmosphere, boosting biodiversity and improving water management. It’s also about caring where your food comes from. As Rachel absorbed regenerative farming, she was able to put it into action on her farm, a beloved second home for her husband, actor Bryan Brown, their three children and grandchildren. And she’s had great success, creating a landscape that’s now humming with beneficial critters, abundant grasses and thriving livestock.  

Her progress was followed in a documentary, Rachel’s Farm, and she hopes to launch a paddock-to-plate business to help consumers make food decisions that benefit the environment. “I think I’m most proud of bringing environmental health back to this little pocket of land,” says Rachel. “It’s very purposeful to be on this path of finding something very positive and active to turn things around climate-wise.” 

Kieran Perkins, 50

When Australian Olympic swimmer Kieren had his first swimming lesson at school, he admits he wasn’t very good. But he enjoyed it so much, he carried on. The rest is history. “As my career went on, I chased gold medals,” he told education leaders last year. “And that’s what I’m still doing today as CEO of the Australian Sports Commission. I’m chasing gold-medal standards across the entire sports industry, from grassroots to the pinnacle of elite competition.” 

Kieren, who retired from swimming in 2000 after setting 11 world records, is now streaking ahead in the pursuit of excellence for all sportspeople Australia-wide – starting with children. “Green and gold success on the world stage is important to our national psyche,” he says. “But without a massive base of participants involved in fun, engaging activities, developing skills and a love of sport, it all falls apart.” 

His new vision is hinged on the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, with a program of major events on home soil that will showcase the very best of sport. “The runway to 2032 is a gift for this generation,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to unite, inspire and build the nation through sport.” 

Louise Sauvage, 50

As one of Australia’s most decorated Paralympians, Louise hasn’t put on the brakes since competing in her first IPC Athletics World Championships at the age of 16. Does she remember winning her first gold? “It feels like a long time ago – 32 years ago, at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympics,” she tells DARE with a laugh.  

Louise dominated wheelchair racing for over a decade, raising the profile of Paralympic sport and scooping up multiple medals throughout her career. She retired after the Athens Paralympics in 2004 and switched to coaching young athletes, such as Madison de Rozario. “I’m probably just as competitive as I was,” she says. “But going from being an athlete to the other side as a coach is very different. You’re part of someone else’s journey, which is a big buzz for me. We’re working hard for the upcoming Paris Paralympics 2024 in August.” 

Enjoying this chapter of her career, Louise believes sporting ‘veterans’ have an important role to play in guiding rising stars. “They have a knowledge and perspective and history we can take and learn from. And that’s so important for younger athletes, to know where their sport came from and who’s come before them.” 

Professor Peter Hannaford, 84

As a child, Professor Hannaford was curious about everything and anything. Today, more than eight decades on, he is acknowledged as an award-winning global expert in his field of experimental science. “I don’t know the ‘r’ word; there’s no such thing as retirement,” he tells DARE. “I’ll always maintain an interest in science, whatever happens.” 

His work covers the length and breadth of time and space, researching chemical physics at the CSIRO for 24 years, before moving to Swinburne University of Technology in 2001 to become director of the Centre for Atom Optics and Ultrafast Spectroscopy. He remains professor emeritus at the university, and was made a Companion of the Order of Australia last year for his eminent service to science.  

Professor Hannaford has developed novel laser techniques and been involved in pioneering their application to search for mineral deposits beneath the earth’s surface and create atomic clocks that measure time with breathtaking precision – critical for synchronising activities in space. He’s currently working on ways to produce a quantum computer that, instead of processing information in space, does it in time. In-between, the professor still travels the world lecturing, speaking at conferences, and inspiring young scientists. “I love that,” he says. “It makes me feel I’m still young.” 

Judith Neilson, 78

Although Judith’s name has long been linked with art, her passion for global philanthropy is equally impressive. The Zimbabwe-born owner of Sydney’s White Rabbit Gallery has invested vast sums of money into humanitarian causes, aiming to improve economic inequality in vulnerable communities in Australia and Africa. Among the causes she supports are Amnesty International, Operation Smile Australia and Ampilatwatja Health Centre Aboriginal Corporation, which provides healthcare to First Nations people in the Northern Territory. 

She also funds University of NSW research into innovative housing options for people displaced by natural disasters and conflict. “I believe anybody that is able to have a home, should be able to have one. I don’t believe that if you’re poor you should have a lesser home than somebody who’s rich,” Judith says. 

The focus of her philanthropy is helping communities become stronger. “We came here from Africa with nothing, and this country has been really good to us,” she says. “I feel very strongly about contributing to a greater culture of philanthropy in Australia, and there’s a big element of luck in being wealthy – I believe people have a responsibility to give back.” 

Brian Triglone, 78

Eight years ago, Brian watched a YouTube video of the Giving Voice Chorus, an American choir for people living with dementia. Having already drawn on his lifelong love of music to conduct community choirs, he was inspired to found a similar group in Canberra. “Alchemy Chorus is a dementia-inclusive community choir that is designed both for people living with dementia, their partner/relative or close friend, and volunteer singers,” he tells DARE.  

Alchemy Chorus has been a resounding success, sparking an alliance of similar choirs around Australia. “My initial goal was to bring some joy into the lives of couples impacted by dementia,” says Brian. “Studies have shown that musical memory remains well into the dementia journey, and is therefore something that couples can enjoy together in a non-judgemental, understanding environment when other social contacts start to diminish. Our choir members say that it’s the best day of the week.” 

Regular performance helps reinforce the importance of social inclusion, and shows that life needn’t stop with a diagnosis, says Brian, who was the 2023 ACT Senior Australian of the Year nominee. “Our concerts are a highlight and a great source of pride. There’s no greater feeling of satisfaction than to see smiling faces all around when we nail a song.” 

Professor Tom Calma, 70

When the referendum for the Voice to Parliament was defeated last October, many were disappointed, including Professor Calma, Aboriginal Elder and co-author of the Voice blueprint. But the Darwin-born social justice campaigner, a man who’s spent nearly half a century pushing for the rights, responsibilities and welfare of Indigenous people, believes we’ve got to have faith in the future – and the reconciliation efforts to come. 

“I’ve always been and always will be a glass-half-full person – I think the future is bright for our next tranche of leaders,” says Professor Calma, who retired in 2010 after a distinguished career in the Australian public service to work as a consultant, volunteer and academic. 
The 2023 Senior Australian of the Year and chancellor of the University of Canberra was appointed to the government’s Aged Care Taskforce last year, which aims to develop aged care options that are fair and equitable for all Australians. A member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, he also works to support older people in accessing culturally safe aged care. “It’s about creating empathy and respect so people can understand their treatment, medications and care that they can expect,” Professor Calma explains. 

Layne Beachley, 52

A seven-time world champion, Layne is widely regarded as the most successful female surfer in history, with a talent that shook up the male-dominated sport forever. Since her retirement in 2008, she has been inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (she was elevated to Legend status last year), and in 2023 became the first female patron of Surfing Australia, having stepped down as its chair after eight years in the role. She’s also fought for equality, supporting and mentoring young women to fulfil their potential. 

“There are many people out there who will tell you that you can’t,” she said last year. “What you must do is turn around and say, ‘Watch me’. When you’re clear on your own values, you live a life according to your own purpose. You’re no longer waiting for other people’s opinions or decisions to determine which direction you head in.” 

Layne remains passionate about helping others design a life they love, and has a new self-empowerment platform, Awake Academy. “I’m so excited for 2024 and all the exciting projects I have in the pipeline,” says Layne. “There is so much to look forward to.” 

Dr Alan Finkel, 71

Dr Finkel is hopeful that a clean energy future is within Australia’s grasp. And his latest book, Powering Up: Unleashing the Clean Energy Supply Chain, suggests how it can be done. The former Australian chief scientist is a neuroscientist, engineer, researcher, entrepreneur and policy adviser. He’s made an enormous contribution to the country’s knowledge base on energy, leading a review of Australia’s electricity market, developing the National Hydrogen Strategy and advising the government on the national Low Emissions Technology Roadmap.  

“In the pursuit of a zero-emissions future, nothing is more important than the energy system, currently responsible for nearly three-quarters of global greenhouse gas emissions,” he tells DARE. “If we invest in new clean technologies, the old high-emission technologies will become obsolete and disappear. The investment is huge, the commitment must be unwavering, but the pathway is clear.” 

He describes the shift to clean energy as “the most difficult economic transition in human society since the dawn of agriculture”. Yet he can see a way forward. “A low-emissions future is within our grasp as long as we all accept the need to compromise, so that the pursuit of perfection does not get in the way of the very good.” 

Alan Schwartz, 71

Entrepreneur, investor and philanthropist Alan spent some 30 years creating, acquiring and managing businesses across a diverse range of industries, including publishing, property, professional services and software. Underlying his passion for business is what he describes as “a deep commitment to family and community”, and an interest in the not-for-profit sector.  

Among a long list of successful projects is his contribution to the creation of Jewish Care – a merger of Jewish Community Services and Montefiore Homes – and his role as its inaugural president. Alan was also chair of Philanthropy Australia from 2014-2019. In 2004, Alan and his wife Carol established the Trawalla Foundation as a vehicle for the philanthropic activities of the Schwartz family, focusing on projects including gender equality, creativity, sustainability and social justice.  

He now describes his professional life as having transitioned from “entrepreneur and business builder” to “active investor, philanthropist and social activist”. His efforts were rewarded last year when he was awarded Officer of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to the community through philanthropic endeavours, and to sustainable social benefit initiatives. And while he welcomed the recognition for his hard work, Alan says, “Community work is reward in itself.” 

Jack Hamilton, 83

Volunteers tend to work behind the scenes, and some, like Jack, give years of their life to helping others. In fact, Jack was recognised last year with the Northern Territory Chief Minister’s Volunteer of the Year Award for 38 years as the face of Northern Territory Legacy, an organisation supporting the partners and children of those who gave their lives or their health for our country. 

“It’s nice to be recognised,” he tells DARE. “I spent 36 years in the army and lost a few of my very close friends, and I supported those families as best I could. Then I joined Legacy and continued to do it – it’s been some of the most important work I’ve done.”  

For Jack, that means making sure beneficiaries are catered for in the absence of a spouse or parent. He’s also done countless fundraising and guided new volunteers through the Legacy ranks. And while he’ll still be knocking about NT Legacy HQ, he says he is scaling down. “I’m keen to spend more time with the family and with my wife – we realised we haven’t seen a lot of Australia, so we’ve got a trip to plan!” 

Dr Miriam Rose Ungunmerr Baumann, 70s

Teacher, artist and respected Elder, Dr Ungunmerr Baumann has dedicated her life to educating children and helping them connect with their culture. In 1975 she became the Northern Territory’s first fully-qualified Aboriginal teacher, and has been a support to the community through her long-term work with St Francis Xavier Catholic School on the Daly River, 250km south of Darwin. It’s here that she was a teacher then principal, before being appointed to the federal government’s National Indigenous Council. In 2013 she established the Miriam Rose Foundation to bridge the divide between Aboriginal culture and mainstream society.  

“Being an educator is my proudest achievement because we integrated cultural education, which continually helped and taught our young people about the traditions, identity and their stories,” Dr Ungunmerr Baumann tells DARE. Today, the 2021 Senior Australian of the Year continues to support the school community in Daly River, acting as a “leaning post for everyone who needs support and guidance in educating our children”. 

“I continue working closely with the local school and teachers who come to us as guests on our country, helping them build a strong relationship with our local teachers and together they build a strong future for our students who grow and learn.” 

Valmai ‘Val’ Dempsey, 73

“Aunty Val”, as she is widely known, has now retired from her job as a nurse, but her lifelong commitment to caring for the community shows no signs of wavering. She joined St John Ambulance as a cadet in primary school, and having notched up more than 50 years of service, she is now one of the ACT’s longest-serving volunteers. Her responsibilities have included teaching first aid, mentoring children and advocating for the welfare of first responders. She also played a major role in coordinating St John’s response to the Black Summer fires and the pandemic.  

“I don’t suppose that the heart ever grows tired of being in that role,” she tells DARE. “You get out of the house, you get to meet people, you have a challenge, you get to share your knowledge, you get to learn more things – I learn something every time I go out.” 

Val’s community service saw her awarded Senior Australian of the Year in 2022, and she was chosen to represent Australia at the Queen’s funeral. The recognition has been “humbling”, she says. “I couldn’t be more proud because it recognises some millions of Australians who go out there every day. Australia is supported by its volunteers, and we keep the country running.” 

Patti Newton, 79

An icon of the Australian entertainment scene, Patti returns to the stage this year with a starring role in Grease the Musical, playing schoolteacher Miss Lynch in the show’s new Australian run. Devoted wife to TV legend Bert Newton for 38 years, it’s Patti’s time to shine.  

An accomplished radio, TV and theatre performer in her own right, Patti says it’s what Bert would have wanted for her after his death in 2021. “When Bert passed, I was having problems, like everybody does, and I didn't think I was ever going to succeed or get out of bed again,” she confides. “But it wouldn’t be what he’d want, he would want me to move on.” Last year, she played Bird Woman in Mary Poppins: “And now I’m so excited to do Grease.” 

Patti has some pre-show rituals that honour her late husband. “I do take Bert on stage with me every night and I have a couple of things that I do before I go on, which are very, very much him,” she says. “I bless myself before I go on, and I do a fist bump to any of the crew that’s around. They all know someone’s got to be there to do it for me.”  

Leanne Hillman, 68

The court environment can be daunting for victims and witnesses of crime, but thanks to volunteers like Leanne, vulnerable community members are extended a helping hand when they need it most. She has worked at Victims and Witnesses of Crime Court Support (VWCCS) since 2009, volunteering as a court support officer and, in more recent years, operations manager. The team is made up of trained volunteers who help victims and witnesses feel prepared, safe and comfortable when attending court proceedings to give evidence.  

“I worked with state government services for a number of years and when I retired, I was still interested in being able to give back to the community and doing some worthwhile volunteer work,” she tells DARE. “The work is enormously rewarding and I would strongly recommend people get involved in volunteering and to look at what skills they’ve got to offer.” 

Leanne’s dedication was recognised in 2023 when she was named NSW Volunteer of the Year (and also Senior Volunteer of the Year, an award sponsored by Australian Seniors). “It was a great surprise because there are so many great volunteers around, but I also have to say it was fantastically positive recognition of the work that VWCCS does. The value of that work is part of the reason for the award.” 

Nick Cave, 66

Is there anything Nick can’t do? He first made his name 40 years ago as the lead singer and songwriter with Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds but, in his five-decade career, he’s also been a score composer, a writer of books and film scripts and, most recently, a ceramic artist.  

Praised as a genius for both his words and his music, the England-based star is currently on tour in Australia, and preparing to release the first Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds album in five years. “I don’t collect ideas, I don’t write things down or get a cool title or whatever. I just make a date and sit down and start to write a record,” he says of his creative process. 

Nick has also been praised for his candid conversations around grief, following the tragic deaths of his sons Arthur (in 2015) and Jethro (in 2022). He expresses his pain in his book Faith, Hope and Carnage and on his website, The Red Hand Files, where he supports fans experiencing their own grief. “It was really with The Red Hand Files that I learned how to write about it,” he says. “Even though I couldn’t really talk about it, at least I could develop a language around grief.” 

Lillie Giang, 54

When a devastating storm hit Victoria in June 2021, hundreds of families in the Dandenong Ranges area were left either homeless or without access to food. Local chef Lillie sprang into action, setting up an emergency relief kitchen to prepare meals for the community and rescuers. This operation was the origin of Feed One Feed All, a not-for-profit founded by Lillie that now produces 700 to 900 meals a week for people experiencing homelessness, illness, financial stress and escaping violent homes. 

Catering for groups comes naturally to Lillie, who has appeared on TV cooking segments and runs a cooking school where her students include people with disabilities. “I am fortunate that I can combine my passion for food with community outreach and that I have the skills to provide sustenance to help those doing it tough,” she tells DARE. “I love food and I love sharing food.” 

Demand for Feed One Feed All continues to grow, meaning Lillie is always busy securing funding and recruiting volunteers. “I know we can’t help everyone or fix world hunger, but we can start with a bowl of rice. Together we can turn that bowl of rice into a nutritious meal and give some hope to someone who needs it.”  

Andy Penn, 60

In a time of data breaches and increasing online crime, cybersecurity is a significant challenge for Australia’s economy. So when the Minister for Home Affairs set up an expert advisory board into the federal government’s cybersecurity strategy, Andy was tapped to be chair. As the former CEO of Telstra, he has a keen interest in how organisations evolve in the digital age. “There’s no doubt that the level of cybersecurity threat has grown dramatically,” he told the ABC. “There is much more that does need to be done, and that’s just a reality of the digital world in which we live.” 

Andy, who was made an officer of the Order of Australia in 2023 for his services to business, charity, youth and the arts, concluded his cybersecurity role last year, assuming a role on the Coles Group board as chair of its audit and risk committee, and an advisory position for the Quad Investors Network, a group tackling economic and security challenges in Australia, India, Japan and the US.  

“Being somebody who grew up in the UK and progressed through their career after having dropped out of school at an early age, Australia’s offered me a lot of opportunity,” he says. 

Fiona Simson, 60

In 2006, when a mining giant came knocking with plans to dig up her family’s farm, Fiona found her voice. She won a David versus Goliath-style battle to protect the Liverpool Plains area of NSW, and 10 years later became the first female president of the National Farmers’ Federation. Today, the crop and cattle producer is one of the most powerful and recognisable faces in Australian agriculture, as comfortable in Canberra as she is in her sorghum fields.  

Fiona stepped down from the NFF presidency role late last year and is credited with reinvigorating the lobby group, repositioning agriculture as innovative and future-focused, and developing the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap, to grow farming to a $100 billion industry by 2030. She also gave farmers a voice on critical national issues, such as climate change. “Farmers are not climate change denialists,” says Fiona.  

She has now been elected to the board of the World Farmers’ Organisation, representing all of Oceania. “The answer to having a say and solving problems is to be on the front foot, get involved, be positive and engaged – and to have a loud voice and a seat at the table if you really want to change the debate and the narrative,” she says. 

Chris Cuffe, 64

Well known in financial circles, Chris spent years building and running successful wealth management practices, including Colonial First State, which he took from a startup operation to become Australia’s largest investment manager during his tenure. Among other key roles, he was chair of UniSuper, a multi-billion-dollar super scheme for Australia’s higher education and research sector. 

With strong experience behind him and a curious mind, Chris explored why more wealthy Australians weren’t engaged in philanthropy. “The research showed that there were many barriers preventing people from participating in structured philanthropy,” Chris tells DARE.  

And so began his work in overcoming the hurdles, establishing and chairing Australian Philanthropic Services (APS), which helps clients manage their charitable giving using tax-efficient structures, and supports them in leaving a legacy after their death. APS has come a long way in the past 13 years, with more than 800 clients donating over $160 million to charity each year – a sizable pool of money going towards worthwhile causes and community initiatives. “While there is great benefit to the charities and the community, we find that it is our clients who gain the most benefit from engaging with the causes that matter to them,” says Chris. 

Dr Tony Press, 70

When Dr Press talks about Antarctica, his deep affection for the landscape is palpable. As adjunct professor for the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies at the University of Tasmania, he has spent a lot of time on the frozen continent. He vividly recalls first stepping foot on Antarctic ice after being appointed director of the Australian Antarctic Division in 1998. “Walking out across the landscape, and just having this 360-degree view of the horizon, and the vastness and the sheer scale – it’s overwhelming, really,” he tells DARE. 

Dr Press is the author of the Australian government’s Antarctic Strategic Plan and is highly respected for his scientific insights on the Southern Oceans region. Last year he was awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service to the environment, particularly in Antarctica and Kakadu.  

He describes Antarctica as the “engine room of the global climate”, and continues to sound the alarm about the impacts of climate change. “My hope for the future is that the governance framework, and the science that goes with it, will help us not only understand Antarctica and its role in the global climate, but also help us understand how to protect the species that live there, and protect Antarctica from climate change.” 

Professor Kerryn Phelps, 66

The outspoken GP is not afraid of a challenge. A strong leader and unwavering advocate for doctors, patients and communities, Professor Phelps is past-president of the Australian Medical Association, a former independent MP and a trusted voice in the media.  

She has dedicated much of her career to boosting health literacy, improving public health and putting important causes in the spotlight, including the health of Indigenous people, refugee rights and issues affecting LGBTQI+ communities. “I’ve had this philosophy that if I’m in a position and have the ability to give attention to an important issue, then I feel a responsibility to speak up and not just sit back and quietly complain or despair,” she tells DARE. 

The doctor adds that it’s an enormous privilege to work as a GP, and among her many achievements, she is especially proud of her time leading the federal AMA and her voice in the media. Her new memoir, Power of Balance, further explores the milestones and ideas that helped shape her lifelong pursuit to create change. “I think caring deeply about the issues that you’re working on is really fundamental to maintaining your motivation and your drive.” 

Sally Morgan, 72

First Nations writer, artist, dramatist and academic, Sally has proved herself someone who changes lives – over and over again. Her seminal memoir My Place, about the Stolen Generations and her quest to discover her Indigenous roots after being told by her mother she was of Indian heritage, captured Australia’s imagination and has long been on school curriculums across the nation. It also encouraged other First Nations people to reclaim their lineage, and inspired white Australians to celebrate them. 

“I realised from talking to people that most Australians were very ignorant of Aboriginal history,” Sally has explained. “So I thought it should be communicated – it had happened here. It was also a record for my kids.” 

The former professor at the University of Western Australia has since written a multi-award-winning series of books for children, including recent releases The River, which won a 2022 Environment Award for Children’s Literature prize, and Thank You Rain!, a CBCA Book of the Year – Notables 2023 winner. Sally, who is equally renowned for her art, with dozens of works housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Australia, has also co-written a number of books with her three children. “We can never have enough stories,” she says. 

Deborah Mailman, 51

Deborah is one of the country’s most beloved actors, with roles in movies such as The Sapphires and Paper Planes, and popular TV shows The Secret Life of Us, Offspring and Total Control, the third series of which was released earlier in the year. But while she was also the first Aboriginal actor to win the Best Actress AFI Award in 1998 – she’s since won multiple acting prizes across both TV and film – she doesn’t really see herself as a trailblazer.  

“When I look back at the body of work I’ve done over the years, I feel really proud, and I do hope that will open doors for others,” she tells DARE. “All that work, and the various roles I’ve played, will hopefully prove inspirational for other young actors. I’m lucky in that I’ve had the opportunity to play some wonderful characters. Age often brings more interesting and eclectic ones, and more confidence.” 

Deborah wants to continue acting for as long as she’s in demand. “You’ve got to enjoy it and love it, otherwise it’s just too hard an industry to be in. I take everything as it comes, but I would love to do a bit more comedy. I think we all need a good laugh these days!” 

Professor Matthew Colless, 63

Professor Colless became an astronomer and astrophysicist because he wanted to find out the answers to the really big questions in life. “I wanted to know things like where we came from and where we’re going,” he tells DARE. “But every question you answer, throws up a new set of questions.”  

The distinguished professor at the ANU’s Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, who last year was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for service to scientific research, adds: “It’s proved a fabulous career, however. You get to think about the big things, meet fascinating people from around the world and play with really big toys.” 

Among those favourite toys is the Extremely Large Telescope under construction in Chile that he’s just visited. When finished, it will be the world’s biggest, with a 39m diameter; 10 times the diameter of the 1974 Anglo-Australian Telescope near Coonabarabran in country NSW he cajoled his parents into taking him to see as a child. “When scientists like myself started, we didn’t realise that only 5% of the universe was visible,” says Matthew. “The other 95% is unknown stuff but we’re making good progress. I’d love to know those answers!” 

Alex Perry, 61

Surviving (let alone thriving) in the glamorous yet cut-throat world of fashion, few Australian designers have succeeded like Alex – and after more than 30 years in the industry, he has no plans to slow down. “It’s not in my nature to sit back and rest on my laurels,” he says. “For me, it’s about amping it up, keeping it new, making sure we, as a brand, don’t become complacent.” 

Alex opened his first shop in Sydney’s Kensington in 1992 and made his mark in made-to-measure wedding dresses in the mid-2000s, becoming a household name in 2005 as judge on Australia's Next Top Model for its 10-year run. He has also collaborated with Specsavers on a signature sunglasses range since 2012. 

His collections are synonymous with celebrity and style, selling in luxury retailers across the globe and worn by some of the world’s most beautiful women, including Mary of Denmark, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Gwyneth Paltrow. “Proportion and fit is everything to me. I like my clothes to be transformative,” says Alex. “It has to have a sense of drama, and I want it to transform the wearer, make them feel beautiful and unbelievably confident.”  

Julia Gillard, 62

From becoming Australia’s first – and so far only – female prime minister to improving the lives of girls and women worldwide, Julia continues to be a force for change. She’s the founder and chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, which addresses the under-representation of women in leadership – very fitting for a woman who made waves with that powerful misogyny speech in 2012. “Discussion of gender is now much more common,” she says. “That gives me a lot of heart because we only change big things in our world by talking about them and getting the energy together for the change.” 

Last year Julia stepped down as chair of mental health organisation Beyond Blue but remains a patron. She also serves as chair of Wellcome, which supports science-based solutions to urgent global health challenges, and is proud to be patron of CAMFED – Campaign For Female Education, a Pan-African movement supporting girls to thrive at school and beyond. 

“Because I got a great quality education at local government schools, I’ve had the opportunity to go on and be involved in policy-making and leadership at the highest levels,” Julia says. “I believe everyone should get a great quality education, no matter where they are on our precious planet.” 

Terry Denton, 73

Illustrator and author Terry has been giving kids (and adults alike) a laugh for more than three decades with his unique drawing style that takes readers on wild and fun-filled adventures. “I’m trying to draw quickly and make it look like I’m drawing quickly,” Terry explains. “So it seems very unskilful, but the key thing is the idea.”  

His wicked sense of humour and informed flair for what interests and amuses children shines through in his work, which includes picture books, junior novels and collaborations with top Australian authors, including Andy Griffiths. Their hugely popular Treehouse series has sold over 10 million copies in Australia and has won over 80 children’s choice awards. After 13 years of fun in the growing treehouse, the much-loved series has come to an end with the final book, The 169-Storey Treehouse, released late last year.  

With Treehouse books on the shelves in more than 35 countries, Terry’s iconic illustration style has captured the imagination of children across the globe. Andy is one of his biggest fans. “To sit beside Terry while he is drawing is amusing and mysterious in equal parts,” he says. “He seems to literally ‘think’ through the drawing process itself.” 

Jason Donovan, 55

He had his first TV spot at the age of nine, but it was his stint as teen Scott Robinson on Neighbours that catapulted Jason to international stardom. Alongside touring and selling millions of pop albums, he’s had countless TV and stage roles, most recently reprising his lead role of Frank N Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in Sydney and Melbourne. 

“What still gives me a thrill after all these years? I just love working and engaging with other performers, I still love performing live,” Jason tells DARE. “I like the fact that at my age I can approach work with a sense of confidence.” Even so, preparing to return to the stage included a regime akin to an athlete. “My body sometimes tells me I’m older, but it’s about keeping physically fit, going to the gym, swimming, stretching. I’m loving my ice baths at the moment! 

Jason says his family – including wife Angela Malloch and their three children – is everything: “I feel like all the hard work I did in my youth is paying off a bit for me now. I think one of the best things about being this age is that all you’ve experienced makes it easier to deal with life as you get older.”  

Andrew Hoy, 65

Andrew may be one of Australia’s most successful athletes, with six Olympic medals – including three gold – but the equestrian never worries he’ll become too big for his riding boots. “Working with horses keeps you humble,” he tells DARE. “They only treat you the way you treat them; they don’t have any kind of notion about what you’ve done previously. They’ll only react to you according to how you’re behaving at that particular time. So you have to build credibility and respect afresh with every animal in a clear and structured way each time.” 

Andrew, who is now based in England, is currently in training for an incredible ninth Olympics, the 2024 Games in Paris, where the equestrian events are scheduled for the magnificent grounds of Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.  

“It’s the most beautiful place and I would feel very privileged to be able to compete there,” says Andrew. “People do ask me about retirement because of my age and achievements, but if I thought about that, I couldn’t focus on what I’m doing. Instead, I prefer to concentrate on what I’m doing today and how I could be better tomorrow. I’ve never set out to make, or break, records. I just want to be the best I can be.” 

Naomi Watts, 55

Australian actor and producer Naomi is on a mission to demystify menopause after experiencing perimenopause at age 36. “Going through menopause at such a young age was not easy,” she says. “My hormones were all over the place. I remember feeling so confused and alone, like I didn’t have control over my own body.” 

So in 2022 Naomi launched Stripes, a wellbeing and beauty brand with a focus on education and ditching the stigma surrounding menopause. “There was a lack of open conversation and resources to help women navigate the changes we go through,” she says. “That’s why I’m now so passionate about raising awareness and encouraging more honest conversations.” 

Known as a creative chameleon, Naomi is also making waves in her acting career, most recently playing New York socialite Barbara ‘Babe’ Paley in the TV series Feud: Capote Vs The Swans, in a critically acclaimed performance.  

Naomi, who married fellow actor Billy Crudup in New York last year, told Harper’s Bazaar she avoids travelling for roles during the school year, so she can be a hands-on mother to her teenage children Sasha and Kai, by her former partner Liev Schreiber. When she does work, she focuses on playing strong women.  

“As I get into the middle and latter part of my life, I’m just always looking for dynamic people. Look, we’re half the population, we’re living longer. Why shouldn’t these stories be just as relevant and interesting as [stories about] men of the same age?” she says. 

Marcia Hines, 69

Every morning, music legend Marcia Hines wakes up thinking how lucky she is still to be doing what she loves: producing hit albums, performing in musicals and appearing on TV as a judge on Australian Idol. “It’s just amazing to be doing all this,” she tells DARE. “It’s wonderful to remain relatively relevant! I’m having a ball, and loving being back on Australian Idol too. We’ve all grown up with it – with some people coming up to me and saying they love watching the show with their grandmothers.” 

With her latest album out in 2023 (Still Shining: The 50th Anniversary Ultimate Collection) and a role as Teen Angel in Grease the Musical this year, Marcia still has ambitions left to fulfil. Next, she wants to sing a series of duets with artists she loves, including Tina Arena. 

“There are a lot of people I’d like to work with, whose music I enjoy,” she says. “But the sad thing is, some of those people have now passed away, like George Michael who was such a great visionary. But I love doing new things and every time my manager phones and says, ‘Have you ever considered…?’ I think, ‘Oh, goodie!’ It’s lovely to be able to keep reinventing myself.” 

Hugo Weaving, 64

One of our most acclaimed and awarded actors, Hugo is a master on screen and stage. His first television role was in 1984 miniseries Bodyline, and he made his name in major Australian films such as The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Babe, followed by international blockbusters including The Matrix trilogy and The Lord of the Rings films. 

Contributing to his success is his versatility and skill at playing roles across multiple genres, and creating characters that resonate with filmgoers. Film was his own “great educator” in his childhood, Hugo says. “I was so thrilled about the world I was entering into and learning about – and it was film that did that.” 

Despite his global fame, Hugo likes to stay local. “I do work in Australia. I’ve never lived in Los Angeles, I hate the place. I’d much rather live and work here and work on great Australian scripts.” Recent work includes streaming series Love Me and film The Rooster (he won 2024 AACTA awards for both projects) and an upcoming role in How to Make Gravy, based on Paul Kelly’s Christmas song. And with a long collaboration with the Sydney Theatre Company, Hugo is currently starring in its production of The President.  

Helen Garner, 81

She’s won most of the accolades Australia has to offer but writer Helen, in her ninth decade, is finally conquering the rest of the world. Her books have been picked up by the US and UK, and she’s now being feted by new fans. 

“I couldn’t be more astonished this has happened at such a late age,” Helen tells DARE. “It was never my ambition to be published outside my country,” adds the Australia Council Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature winner and author of acclaimed novels like Monkey Grip and non-fiction works The First Stone and This House of Grief. “I like to write about small and intimate things from where I come from and not have to explain things or describe landscapes in great detail. But this is, I suppose, the icing on the cake and, while it is very surprising, it’s also a very happy thing.” 

Helen still loves writing and has just finished another book, this time about her grandson’s under-16 AFL team, which she followed for a year. “Becoming a grandmother is the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” she says. “It’s brought me enormous happiness, and they’ve told me to carry on writing about them.” 

Keith Urban, 56

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, country star Keith’s love of music began in early childhood. The singer, songwriter and guitarist recorded his debut album in 1991, attracting attention on the Australian charts and a year later, he followed his dreams all the way to Nashville. It was in America that he was introduced to his wife, fellow Australian star Nicole Kidman, and the couple now have two children. 

Keith’s career in the US is going from strength to strength, with four Grammy awards, 12 studio albums and an ever-growing list of chart-topping hits and tours. He soared to even greater heights in 2023, with an induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Being invited into the Hall of Fame is hands down one of the highest honours that’s ever happened to me,” says Keith. “I’ve always loved writing songs. I’ve always loved great songwriters. To be in this incredible group of songwriters is a bit surreal.” 

Keith has appeared as a judge on The Voice Australia and American Idol and is this year set to release a new studio album – his first in four years. “The songs are about hope, wild longing, working through things, and just sheer, mindless fun,” he says. 

Professor Charlie Corke, 70

Over his long career as an intensive care doctor, Professor Corke has seen countless families in their worst hours, grappling with a loved one’s serious condition, and having to make difficult decisions about their care. Realising how ill-prepared most people are for such moments, he took a lead role in creating MyValues.  

This free online service asks users a series of questions, then compiles a report expressing their wishes on end-of-life medical treatments, which can guide loved ones in making important decisions. “It makes a really difficult thing approachable, and it makes people think,” he tells DARE. “And I’ve had some really lovely feedback from people about how it’s helped them to do that.” 

Deputy chair of Victoria’s Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board and author of Letting Go: How to Plan for a Good Death, Professor Corke wants to empower Australians to face their final days with dignity and respect. He lectures on end-of-life decision making, and is running a hospital program to educate doctors on navigating conversations with patients about how they’d like their care to be managed if planned procedures don’t go well. “I hope that with time we all become more mature, and we recognise the need to take control and to manage end-of-life decisions.”   

Faith Agugu, 59

While working as a psychotherapist, Sydney-based Faith noticed a recurring theme among her older female patients. “They were feeling undervalued, overlooked and invisible,” she tells DARE. “I found this astounding! In my culture, becoming older is something to be celebrated. Unfortunately, it seems the westernised culture is very youth-focused and ageing is seen to be something to be ashamed of.” 

So, in 2018, the Nigerian-born, London-raised Faith founded online platform SilverSirens.org for women aged 50-plus to transform the negative stigma associated with ageing. “I wanted to build a community where women could be celebrated for who they are and what they have achieved, regardless of their age.” 

Silver Sirens hosts regular events covering topics including fitness, nutrition, menopause and alternatives to aged care facilities, as well as tackling major issues such as the homelessness crisis and loneliness.  

“My hope for the next generation is that by doing what we are doing with Silver Sirens, they will have an easier time with the concept of ageing and not fear it the way our generation was taught to fear it. That they will embrace ageing with grace and dignity because we have shown them how to.” 

Tracey Spicer, 56

When Tracey was in her 30s, she lost her job as a full-time newsreader due to maternity discrimination. It set her down the path of advocating for equity, and particularly the rights of women and girls. “The experience lit a fire in my belly that burns to this day,” she tells DARE. 

The author, broadcaster and journalist is passionate about exposing injustices against women. She became the face of the Me Too movement in Australia, bringing stories of sexual harassment and assault to the public arena. Globally, the award-winning journalist has presented documentaries on gendercide, sexual assault and the education gap in India, and interviewed survivors of domestic violence in Uganda. 

In recent years Tracey has focused on the impact of digital technology on gender inequality. Her latest book, Man-Made, spotlights the ways technology like AI perpetuates negative stereotypes about women and older people. “Chatbots in the home, like Siri, inevitably have female voices, while those in the business and finance sectors sound male,” she explains. “If an algorithm is being used to decide who gets a ventilator in hospital, it will choose a younger person every time, because they’re viewed as more valuable to a productive society.” 

Bernard Salt, 67

At a time of rapid change, the ability to forecast cultural, social and property trends is highly valuable – and leading demographer Bernard has become a household name for doing just that. From coining the phrase “the goat’s cheese curtain” to describe socioeconomic division, to sparking debate over the “smashed avocado” consumption of would-be homebuyers, his insights have led debate on what we want Australia to look like.   

Bernard, who has written six bestselling books, says his fascination with demography started early. “As a kid I questioned my parents about the Depression, about the war, about the 1950s and 1960s,” he tells DARE. “They were patient – mildly amused, I think, by my forensic interest – but soon enough I could put everything together and talk about how society had changed.” 

His insights continue to be in demand with governments and businesses – and he still loves every minute of it. Bernard believes entrepreneurship is the key to Australia’s future growth. “I don’t want the best and the brightest of Australia to be drawn to Silicon Valley,” he says. “I want businesses of scale and value to be owned and operated from within Australia.” 

Neale Whitaker, 62

For the lowdown on everything from pendants to pantries, interior design expert and TV presenter Neale is your man. His first life-defining moment was leaving the UK in 1999 for Australia, lured by the climate and the light – “It’s like Europe with all the dials turned up” – and the vibrant publishing industry. He had the formidable glossy duo of Vogue Living and Vogue Entertaining + Travel in his sights and ended up editing both, while also savouring food magazines as the founding editor of Delicious.  

His other defining moment was becoming the avuncular judge on reno blockbuster, The Block, from 2010. More recently, he also took on Foxtel’s Love It or List It, where he occupies the design hot-seat, persuading owners to ‘love’ their homes again after his inspired renovations.  

His hot homes prediction for 2024? “The Eccentric Aunt – it’s the year to stop following trends and let your individuality shine,” he tells DARE. “I love authentic interiors that tell the stories of their owners.” Having conquered print and TV, he is now also taking social media in his stride. “Social media is everything to be honest! It’s how I interact with the world.” His almost 145,000 Instagram followers would readily agree.  

Cate Blanchett, 54

From her breakthrough role in Elizabeth to her Oscar-winning turns as Katharine Hepburn in The Aviator and the eponymous lead in Woody Allen’s Blue Jasmine, Cate has cemented herself as one of the most versatile and esteemed actresses of her generation. Her illustrious career spans decades, yet it’s Cate’s critically acclaimed role in 2022 film Tár that secured her position as the most-Oscar-nominated Australian, earning her an eighth Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of imperious conductor Lydia Tár. 

Although a work of fiction, Cate says the psychological drama is a reflection of real human qualities. “In a way, it’s about the character learning to become herself. It’s quite a lot of things we all do and say in private.”  

As well as her acting and producing roles for film and television, Cate is also a UNHCR goodwill ambassador, championing refugee causes since 2016.  

She amplified these efforts through her 2020 series Stateless, about the plight of immigrants in detention in Australia, which resonated with audiences around the world. “Once you experience the situation that people are in, then you start to make a very visual connection to the immediate trauma of those people’s experience,” says Cate. “It does shift your point of view.” 

Elle Macpherson, 60

It’s been a year of double celebrations for Australia’s original supermodel, who not only turned 60 in recent months but is also marking the 10th birthday of her wellness and supplement brand, WelleCo. “I am loving turning 60,” says Elle, who was nicknamed ‘The Body’ in her early modelling career. “I think this is the first time in my life that I feel truly seen for who I am, that I’ve settled into my authentic self.” 

Still in demand as a model, Elle, who is based in Florida, returned to Australia in January to celebrate the anniversary of WelleCo and to deliver the keynote speech at the AO Inspirational Series at the Australian Open, an annual event that celebrates women’s achievement. 

During her visit, Elle explained the inspiration behind her wellness brand was to help people. “Deep down, that was what I have always wanted my career to be about. When I turned 50, I started to feel run-down, coffee addicted, sugar addicted, putting on weight, hormonally challenged. I thought, other people must be feeling this way. Now I am so proud of my Australian company that is doing so well all over the world.” 

John Farnham, 74

In a career spanning decades, John is one of the most significant contributors to Australian music. His 1986 smash hit You’re the Voice became an anthem across the generations – even lent to last year’s referendum ‘Yes’ campaign – with its album Whispering Jack becoming Australia’s highest-selling album by an Australian artist. 

The nation was collectively shocked when in 2022 the star revealed he was undergoing surgery to have a tumour removed from his mouth following a cancer diagnosis, and relieved again after John declared he had been given the ‘all clear’ in August last year. “I am the luckiest man I know right now,” he said, adding that he would be marking the day by eating pizza. “I can’t wait to see what might be next on the menu. Bring on 2024.” 

Recovering away from the spotlight, he left it up to his sons Rob and James to attend the premiere of John Farnham: Finding the Voice, the authorised biopic that documents his early success, his very lean years and, finally, his triumphant comeback with Whispering Jack. Proving he has lost none of his influence in Australian culture, the film was named Best Documentary at the 2024 AACTA Awards. 

Adam Gilchrist, 52

Australian cricketer turned commentator Richie Benaud, who saw six decades of cricketing greats, called wicketkeeper-batsman Adam the cleanest striker he had ever seen. Fellow player Rod Marsh was no less a fan: “I never saw Bradman bat, but it’s hard to imagine he could have been any more destructive.” Cricketing bible the Wisden Almanack was more succinct about the former Australian captain, whose international playing career spanned almost two decades: “He is a breaker of wills.” 

Following his retirement from the international playing field in 2008, Adam has remained at the top of his game, working as a commentator, philanthropist and mentor. His aim, he says, is to nurture the spirit of cricket “from the ground up”.  

“What I love,” he writes in his autobiography True Colours, “is introducing kids to the game, tapping all that pure, innocent enthusiasm of taking the ball and hitting and bowling it and learning to be part of the team.” 

Inspired by past tours of India with the Australian cricket team, his current roles include being goodwill ambassador to World Vision – he has worked with the charity to provide life-saving equipment to health centres across India – and Adam has just been appointed to the advisory board of the Centre for Australia-India Relations. 

Wendy Moore, 53

Media executive and interiors expert Wendy has been influencing Australian homes and lifestyles for decades, not that she’d use that word to describe herself. “The way the word – influencer – is used now is not how I think of myself,” she tells DARE. “As a woman, in particular as a woman in business, you hope that you have some influence, but I would never have put that in my byline!”  

That byline is an impressive one: she’s director of channels and content at Foxtel, co-host of Selling Houses Australia (Wendy is currently filming her fourth series – the show’s 17th) and director of The Interiors Edit, her content and product collaboration company. She also spent several years as a judge on renovation show House Rules, and edited Home Beautiful magazine for more than a decade. 

Throughout her career, Wendy has always focused on delivering ideas and inspiration that are attainable and accessible to everyone, pushing against the myth that “you had to be rich to be stylish”. “I never wanted to do anything that’s passive or voyeuristic; it’s not looking at how other people live, it’s dreaming about how you’d like to live.” And if she can guide her audience in that direction, job done. 

Professor Frank Jotzo, 54

How do you keep your head as a climate change expert, when everyone around you seems to be losing theirs? Practise patience and understanding, environmental economist Professor Jotzo tells DARE. “You need a high degree of resilience to cope with setbacks and disappointments in general,” says the director of the Centre for Climate and Energy Policy at the ANU Crawford School of Public Policy and lead for the government’s Carbon Leakage Review. “You need a thick skin in terms of the world not acting with the urgency and resolve that the problems warrant.” 

That’s just the way the world works, he adds. “People’s attention tends to be, for obvious reasons, concentrated on more immediate problems that look simpler rather than long-term, more complex problems like climate change. You need purposeful optimism; you don’t make much progress when you dwell on the negatives. It’s better to look at the positives.” 

Among those include rapid developments of alternative energy technologies like cheaper solar batteries, wind power and the relative affordability now of electric vehicles. In addition, there’s the fact that greenhouse gas emissions, while still growing in volume, are nowhere near the doom-laden predictions of 10 to 15 years ago. “I wouldn’t say we’re cheerful overall, but there are reasons for optimism.” 

Tracy Grimshaw, 63

One of Australia’s most recognisable television faces, Tracy brought a fresh, female spin to current affairs when she replaced Ray Martin as host of Nine’s flagship series A Current Affair in 2006 after nearly a decade as co-host of Today. She quickly established herself as an outspoken and fiercely intelligent anchor who wasn’t afraid to ask the hard questions.  

Tracy hosted ACA for 17 years, charming and disarming A-listers such as Olivia Newton-John, Barbra Streisand and Oprah Winfrey – but it was her chats with ordinary Australians living through extraordinary moments that really captured the nation’s hearts. She stepped down in 2022, explaining: “I’ve basically been a shift worker for 29 years, driving to work before dawn on Today, and driving home after dark on A Current Affair and it’s time for less of that daily obligation.”  

Now Tracy is set to return to our screens this year in the Nine series Do You Want to Live Forever? with Dr Nick Coatsworth, which examines ageing and mortality. “I really haven’t spent my life looking for the fountain of youth,” Tracy admits, “but I’m fascinated by how far people take that search, and how advanced medicine is becoming in that space. I’m a bit of a medical nerd so the research has been a pleasure.” 

Brad Fittler, 52

There’s nothing quite like sport to unite and inspire Australians. But one day, NRL star player turned coach and commentator Brad noticed that spirit wasn’t extending far beyond urban borders. Determined to change that, he set off on the HOGS National Tour, a venture that takes him and other prominent rugby league personalities from the men’s and women’s games on motorcycle tours to regional areas. 

“It all started because there were noises that bush footy was being forgotten,” he tells DARE of the tour that has now been running for more than a decade. “This allows us to get out into communities and give the country people of rugby league an experience.” 

Brad, who stepped down as head coach of the NSW rugby league team at the end of last year and is currently working in participation, football and community development for the NRL, took HOGS across the NSW border into Queensland and Victoria for the first time this year. The program hosts football-coaching clinics for children and facilitates discussions on mental health, fitness and nutrition, and last year ignited a $130,000 fundraiser for a bus for an additional needs school in Tumut, NSW. “It’s a nice way for the game to give back,” says Brad. 

Terri Irwin, 59

With her high-profile children taking on management roles at Australia Zoo, running the business and its charity causes, Terri knows her late husband Steve Irwin’s work is in safe hands. “I’m incredibly proud of Bindi and Robert as they honour Steve’s legacy and continue his conservation mission,” she tells DARE. “I feel very content knowing that everything Steve and I worked so hard for is in good hands.”  

Terri’s own focus continues to be on the protection of animals, here and abroad. “Our conservation work also includes humanitarian aid. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya we fund scholarships for students to gain a vocation, reducing the need to poach wildlife for an income. We also have several projects right here in Queensland, from research work to a state-of-the-art wildlife hospital.”  

She became a proud grandmother to granddaughter Grace in 2021. “I feel that I’m with a beautiful flower that’s growing and blossoming with each new experience that she has. Being part of Grace’s life is the greatest part of my life. And watching Bindi and Chandler experiencing parenthood is marvellous. Getting older is definitely a celebration,” Terri adds. “With a lifetime of experiences, triumphs, and some failures, older Australians have an opportunity to share their wisdom and truly benefit our community.” 

Toni Collette, 51

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Toni’s breakout role in Australian film Muriel’s Wedding, and she’s hardly slowing down. In fact, showbusiness news site Deadline Hollywood describes her as “as busy as any actor in town”. With recent multi-award-winning turns in TV hits The Power, The Staircase and Unbelievable, she’s now turning her considerable acting talents back to the big screen and has just filmed her “dream” role in Juror #2, directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. 

She stars in the legal thriller alongside Nicholas Hoult, the British actor who played her son in 2002 film About a Boy. “I can’t quite believe it,” she says. “I get to work with the living legend Clint Eastwood and my former screen son sweetie Nicholas Hoult? Happy days, dreams are real!” 

Toni is also in demand from other top directors, including Bong Joon-ho, whose most recent film, Parasite, won four Oscars including Best Picture. The South Korean director called her personally to ask her to star in his forthcoming sci-fi film, Mickey 17, she reveals. “He said, ‘Toni, I’ve been watching you a long time. I love your work and I want you to be in my movie.’”