The City of Hobart recognises its top citizens
Published on 17 April 2023
A champion of inclusion and equity in the arts, and a dentist on a mission to improve the oral health of disadvantaged Tasmanians have been named Hobart Citizen and Hobart Young Citizen of the Year.
Hobart Citizen of the Year Kelly Drummond Cawthon (pictured) is the Creative Director of Second Echo Ensemble, which aims to increase the visibility of those living with mental illness, disability, neurodiversity or experiencing disadvantage by providing a platform to tell their stories through performance.
Dentist, Gavin Quek, has been named Hobart Young Citizen of the Year for his dedication to improving the oral health of all Tasmanians.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the Ms Drummond Cawthon and Mr Quek were worthy winners.
“There two demonstrate the qualities we want Hobart to be known for,” Cr Reynolds said.
“The virtues of trying to make Hobart a better place to live for the entire community is something we should all aspire to, and I congratulate Kelly and Gavin for their work and commitment.”
Known for her ‘radical care and advocacy for everyone who walks through the doors’, Ms Drummond Cawthon has developed innovative programs and created exceptional works which are not only welcoming and inclusive, but also help to remove barriers to participation and employment in the wider sector, resulting in real social change.
Second Echo Ensemble was particularly vulnerable to the impact of Covid-19 as they not only work in live performance, but also with people who are immunocompromised and have greater vulnerability to Covid-19.
Despite this monumental challenge, Kelly heard the call for connection in isolating times and with remarkable success moved all programming online.
When restrictions eased, she successfully navigated the reintroduction of live performance, including a state-wide tour in 2022, with safety measures to help protect vulnerable company members.
On top of his regular role as a full-time dentist, Mr Quek dedicates many hours to sharing his skills and knowledge with the community.
He volunteers with the Red Cross Bicultural Health Program, providing oral health education sessions for workers and refugees.
He also provides pro-bono dental services to disadvantaged people and those who have experienced domestic violence through the Adopt a Patient and Rebuilding Smiles programs.
In 2022 he organised 500 oral health packs to be distributed to welfare organisations as part of dental Health Week.
Mr Quek is also a Councillor and Secretary for the Australian Dental Association Tasmania, a not-for-profit organisation representing dentists in Tasmania with a mission to improve oral health outcomes for all Tasmanians.
He is the Co-Chair of the Oral Health Promotion Committee and sits on the National Oral Health Working Group as Tasmania’s representative, working alongside other state representatives to share ideas, resources, and strategies to improve oral health outcomes for Australians.