VIDEO: Newcastle Adventurer Named Citizen of the Year After Epic 4,500km Walk

6 February 2025

newy.com.au – Twenty-three-year-old Bailey Myers has been recognised as Newcastle’s Citizen of the Year for 2025 after completing an extraordinary solo journey spanning almost six months and raising nearly $16,000 in donations. His 4,500km walk began in Western Australia and ended in Newcastle, where he was honoured at City of Newcastle’s Citizen of the Year ceremony.

Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge praised Mr Myers for his determination and leadership. “He embodies everything this award stands for,” Cr Kerridge said. “His inspirational walk shows that one person’s resilience and resolve can make a significant difference to people’s lives.”

Mr Myers, who chose to support the Indigenous Literacy Foundation, was moved to action by his parents, who are both teachers. “Literacy is essential,” he said. “I wanted to support education in communities that really need it. My hope is that other young people, especially those who have faced disadvantage, will see what is possible.”

His six-month trek took him through highways, dirt roads, and the Nullarbor Plain. He carried a homemade cart decorated with handprints from students at his former high school, Callaghan College Waratah. Donations were made online, and he also received support from many generous individuals he met along the way.

Aside from Mr Myers’ honour, City of Newcastle recognised several other community members. Sixteen-year-old Khuslen Batmandakh was named Young Citizen of the Year for her tireless efforts to improve literacy and community engagement. She established a book nook at her local shopping centre in Jesmond to provide free books for families, and she continues to develop programs through the Leos Club at Merewether High School.

Evelyn Collins received the Senior Citizen of the Year title for her dedicated work as a clinical nurse supporting patients with Parkinson’s disease. She regularly travels from Newcastle to Sydney to accompany patients through surgery and has helped establish essential services such as the Hunter Deep Brain Stimulation service and DBS support group.

The Unforgettables Dementia Choir was recognised as the Community Group of the Year. Co-founder Dr Helen English believes music has a powerful ability to spark memories and foster social connections. The group meets every Saturday afternoon at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, offering a supportive space where participants can engage with music. They also host a weekly afternoon tea to help carers and participants connect and share experiences.

City of Newcastle’s annual Citizen of the Year awards celebrate the achievements of outstanding Novocastrians who have made exceptional contributions to the community. Mr Myers said he felt deeply honoured to be counted among such inspiring individuals and plans to continue advocating for literacy and education.