Kevin Hughes BM
Founder, Endangered Species Supporters Australia

Kevin’s passion for Australian native animals started in the early 90’s, as he brought awareness to as many people as he could through the establishment of the Endangered Species Supporters Australia.
He travelled around Australia listening, asking questions and educating people in all aspects of Australia’s endangered species and how they can best assist in helping to increase the numbers of those species. He now travels around Australia working with communities impacted by natural disasters to rebuild suitable habitats for local animals.
Kevin has served in the Royal Australian Airforce within Australia and overseas, the Queensland Fire Service and is an active member of the State Emergency Service in Queensland. He is also an active Veterans’ Advocate, representing and assisting veterans who sustained injuries during the military service and is actively involved with the Black Dog Institute.
In 2018, Kevin was selected to run a section with the Queen’s Baton in the Brisbane city for the Commonwealth Games held on Gold Coast.

 

 

Lakeisha Patterson OAM
Australian Paralympian

Lakeisha, otherwise known as Lucky, has become Queensland’s very own golden girl. Lakeisha started swimming at the age of five as a form of hydrotherapy to help ease her muscle stiffness from Cerebral Palsy left Hemiplegia.
To date, Lakeisha is a three time Paralympic Gold medallist and dual World and Commonwealth Champion. She has represented Australia at two Pan Pacific Championships, two Commonwealth Games, three World Championships and two Paralympics with other international events, medals and records in between.
An ambassador for numerous organisations and charities as well as an Order of Australia Medal recipient, when she isn’t swimming, Lakeisha studies at university, volunteers within the community, speaks at numerous events, and raises education and awareness about inclusion, diversity and resilience.

Assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.