FOUR REMARKABLE INDIVIDUALS HAVE BEEN NAMED AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS FOR 2018:
* AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR: MICHELLE YVONNE SIMMONS
The quantum physicist has been recognised for her work in the "space race of the computing era".
Her team is developing a silicon quantum computer able to solve complex problems in minutes rather than thousands of years.
"To break the boundaries of what is possible, you need creativity, hard work, determination, but most of all, you need the willingness to defy the expectation of others."
* AUSTRALIAN SENIOR OF THE YEAR: GRAHAM FARQUHAR
The 70-year-old scientist has been rewarded for his work improving water-efficient crops and analysing climate change.
"I would like to emphasise to both young and old the importance of creativity, of struggling for honesty, and of accepting there will be failures along the way."
* AUSTRALIA'S LOCAL HERO: EDDIE WOO
The Sydney maths teacher, whose online "WooTube" channel has more than 100,000 subscribers, has been honoured for his innovative approach to education.
"The truth is, I am no more a hero than anyone else. There is nothing special or extraordinary about my classroom.
"All I've done is open a window through the internet to the hard work and dedication that happens every day in schools around the country."
* YOUNG AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR: SAM KERR
The 24-year-old soccer superstar capped off a remarkable year filled with goalscoring feats by taking out the prestigious award.
"I truly view this award not just as for me but rather as an endorsement of the achievements of Australian women's football national team and more broadly, Australian women's football and women's sport in general."
Share
