Who's the Fred in your world?
The Fred Hollows Foundation has searched Australia-wide for a Humanitarian of the Year; someone who cares for others in a decent, practical and no-nonsense way – just like Fred did.
After much deliberation, the judging panel has selected two finalists.
Meet our finalists for the 2024 Fred Hollows Humanitarian below.
To read more about the Fred Awards, head here.
Voting for the 2024 Fred Hollows Humanitarian has now closed.
Beryl Paul - NSW
81-year-old Beryl Paul from Griffith, NSW has spent more than three decades knitting to raise funds for The Fred Hollows Foundation.
Beryl’s support of The Foundation began after a chance meeting with Fred Hollows. “I remember he [Fred] told me ‘doing nothing is not an option’. He could inspire anyone to do anything,” Beryl said.
Since then, Beryl has spent countless hours knitting and crocheting everything from tea cosies to baby clothes, blankets and tea towels, which she sells at local fetes and markets. In that time, Beryl raised more than $21,000 and in May of this year, Beryl hosted a tea party in Griffith, which raised an extra $3,000.00 for The Foundation.
Vi Bui – QLD
Sumner local, Vi Bui, is a much-loved pillar in her Brisbane community, offering free hearing services to homeless adults and children, refugees, and underserved individuals.
Vi’s commitment extends to improving hearing health, enhancing quality of life and fostering a sense of dignity and inclusion.
In her own time, Vi personally transports people to social gatherings, as she believes in the importance of connection to enhance the quality of someone's life. She also offers essential care like aural hygiene and hearing aid batteries, serving as a lifeline for many without access to support.
