JAQUELINE Hendrey has been named the Kingston Citizen of the Year for her work providing nearly 200,000 meals to those in need. Hendrey runs the Matt’s Place community meals program in Chelsea. The program serves up around 200 meals to 110 guests each week, and has been running for 15 years.
At an awards ceremony last week, Hendrey was named Kingston’s most outstanding citizen. Kingston mayor Georgina Oxley said “we have so many people doing remarkable things in our community and this event, and these awards are just a small way of us being able to show how valued people’s efforts and contribution are.”
“The spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in Kingston and it is one of the main reasons why our city is such a great place to live. National Volunteer Week is a great chance to say thank you – to shine a light on the tireless efforts of those who usually prefer to stay behind the scenes,” she said.
“This year’s theme, Connecting Communities, couldn’t be more apt. Volunteering builds bridges. It brings people from different walks of life together and creates bonds that enrich lives and strengthen our social fabric. It fosters community engagement, belonging, and meaningful relationships that last well beyond any single project or event. To all of you unsung heroes, tireless volunteers, and local legends – a huge thank you on behalf of all our council and community.”
It’s Okay Not to Be Okay was named the Community Group of the Year. For more information visit kingston.vic.gov.au/council/awards.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 28 May 2025