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Two stalwarts of the Warrnambool creative community have been officially recognised at the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Jeanette Hajncl and John MacInnes were both presented with COTA Victoria Senior Achiever Awards at Government House in Melbourne on October 20.
Jeanette is an artist, mentor and community builder who has spent more than two decades bringing people together through music and movement. She has been involved with the Mozart Choral Group, the Merri Singers and the Fresh Voices and Cantori choirs.
John is a dedicated volunteer in the arts and community broadcasting sectors, contributing his time and talents to local groups including the Warrnambool Symphony Orchestra, 3WAY-FM and Primary Performers.
Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain congratulated John and Jeanette on their awards and thanked them for their ongoing contributions to the community.
"For Warrnambool to have two people recognised among just 16 award recipients across Victoria is a fantastic achievement and something our community can be very proud of," he said.
"John and Jeanette have each made an enormous contribution to Warrnambool's cultural life, not just with their own musical talents, but by creating opportunities for others through their countless hours of volunteer work and leadership.
"Local clubs and groups rely heavily on the dedication of volunteers, and we're very fortunate to have people like John and Jeanette who have helped quite a few organisations thrive for so many years.
"These awards are also a great reminder of the important role older residents play in our community. John and Jeanette are both great examples of people who continue to share their experience and enthusiasm for the benefit of the wider community."
Minister for Seniors, the Hon. Nick Staikos MP, and President, Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria, Robert Caulfield, joined the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, to present the awards.
The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards recognise older Victorians who bring people together, create change and show how to live with purpose, at every age.
Jeanette Hajncl
Jeanette is an artist, mentor and community builder. She brings people together through the joy of music and movement.
Over two decades, Jeanette has built an incredible network of choirs and musical groups.
She conducted and led the Mozart Choral Group and Merri Singers for 24 years. Her leadership has shaped the group into a community ensemble that continues to meet weekly. Jeanette also founded the Fresh Voices choir for young people and the Cantori choir for advanced singers.
In these intergenerational spaces, people feel uplifted and valued. Retirees learn new vocal techniques and young people gain confidence. Jeanette sees families discover new forms of music together. At rehearsals, Jeanette shows how the body can be free and expressive at any age. She helps singers to breathe and move with confidence.
Jeanette’s choirs have sung at festivals, concerts and community gatherings. They are present in moments of celebration, grief and transition. Her music and energy bring joy and comfort to the entire community.
John McInnes
John is a dedicated volunteer in the arts and community broadcasting sectors who continues to share his time, leadership, and talent, enriching the cultural and social life of the region.
Through his passion and commitment, he creates opportunities for people of all ages to participate in and enjoy the arts, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
John brings energy and positivity to all his roles. He has served as President of the Warrnambool Symphony Orchestra for over two decades, helping to build a stable and resilient organisation that continues to thrive.
Each year, the orchestra presents concerts fostering connection and inspiring audiences of all ages.
John has also made a significant impact through 3-Way FM community radio, serving as broadcaster, President, Vice President, and Secretary. His programs promote local stories, community groups, and important information.
Through his work with the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia and his support of young musicians and performers, John has strengthened opportunities for participation, learning, and community connection across generations.
The station remains a vital platform for connection in the region.