Donna Carson
2004 Award

"To be Australian means we are different, we are gutsy, we are very high-spirited - when stirred we become very passionate". These are the words of Donna Carson - a mother, a school teacher, someone who worked hard for their career like many Australians. Someone whose world was turned upside down by a horrifying ordeal, but who has proved herself to be an extraordinary and courageous woman.

Born and raised in Sydney, Donna was always a hard worker. After winning a scholarship to study education at university she became a school teacher. She taught in the Dubbo community for 15 and a half years until she became the victim of a crime which changed her life. During an argument with her then partner, Donna was doused in petrol and set alight. She spent five and half months in hospital, 15 months in rehabilitation and underwent 19 operations.

Donna is now an advocate for victims of crime, burns survivors and survivors of domestic violence.

"I went to the local court and realised that there were victims of crime sitting next to their alleged offenders being pressured to drop charges". To support victims of crime in her local area, Donna established a safe waiting room at the Taree Court House for women and children, particularly those who are facing domestic violence issues. At the waiting room, they can receive support and guidance, as well as space away from their abusers.

The issues that Donna deals with are often swept under the carpet and hidden from the public eye. She helps men, women and children to not only survive, but to move beyond adversities.

Despite her own hardships, Donna continues to put others first.

"That feeling that at the end of the day you've done the best you can and you may have helped someone else is priceless. I give information, education, support, and guidance. I am a cheer squad. I encourage those who are in trouble, in crisis, in tragedy caused through burns, crime, and domestic violence. I walk with them through the darkness."

Donna's motto in life is "don't whinge about unfairness, do something about it." Now living her self-proclaimed 'second life' Donna is putting that motto into practice. An individual, dealt circumstances no one should have to face, has grown through that experience into an inspiring and unconditionally-giving person.

Although overwhelmingly modest, Donna is truly a local hero. "This is what Australians do, they don't give up, they don't give in, they don't surrender. They recreate themselves and go on to bigger things, or better things, or pick up another life. I think many Australians see me as being just like them".