Local charity named finalist in national award

AN OCEAN Grove organisation has made the list of national finalists in the 2025 HESTA Excellence Awards.

Cherished Pets is one of three finalists in the Community Services – Team Excellence category.

The awards recognise the achievements of individuals and teams within the aged care, allied health, disability services and community service sectors.

Cherished Pets founder Alicia Kennedy said they were feeling very honoured to be named as finalists.

“These are the HESTA Excellence Awards, it’s a national award program and it’s quite a credible award.

“To make the finalist list, knowing that they probably get lots of applications, you feel seen and validated and we’re very grateful that we’ve made it this far.”

The organisation was acknowledged for their work in providing veterinary and social services, ensuring pets remain with owners.

Cherished Pets has created a model centred around supporting people and their pets, revolving heavily around the human-animal bond and supporting people within the community.

The service is multidisciplinary, with the team believing that there is more than one skill set required when looking at the human-animal bond.

“The team is made up of the animal people, which is the vets and the vet nurses, then we have the social workers and then we have our volunteers who are integral to delivering the service,” Ms Kennedy said.

“It’s multidisciplinary, collaborative and community centred.”

HESTA chief executive officer Debby Blakey congratulated all of the finalists.

“Our members work in some of Australia’s most demanding sectors, and every day they are taking inspiring actions to positively transform the lives of those in their care.

“These awards serve as a catalyst for identifying, sharing, and celebrating many incredible people and their stories.”

Winners from each category will receive $7,500 for personal or professional development or to enhance their services or processes. Winners will be announced on August 7.

For more information and the full list of finalists, head to hesta.com.au