BEING nominated as the 2025 Australian of the Year for Queensland was enough for Cleveland soprano and Silver Memories and Australian Children’s Music Foundation ambassador Mirusia Louwerse.
Mirusia is currently touring Europe before embarking on her Celebration tour in Australia next year. She will take the tour to the Redland Performing Arts Centre on March 1.
Despite maintaining an international touring program, Mirusia continues to perform in aged care facilities, schools and within the Redland community. Her community service efforts were recognised with the 2024 Redlands Coast Citizen of the Year award.
Mirusia said she used music to connect with children and aged care residents.
“It’s really important. I can see the difference music makes in a child’s life.”
She added that music could also help to lift depression. Referring to Aged Care facilities, she said: “ This is so important. The benefits aren’t just for the residents, but has an effect on social workers and families. It creates a happier life for all,” she said.
Founder of breakingFree, Wellington Point’s James Peterson, was also nominated for 2025 Young Australian of the Year for Queensland.
At age 18, James created an educational school program that teaches young people practical habits and strategies to look after their mental health. In the first year, he delivered nine programs, and now delivers about 80 programs annually, impacting over 20,000 young people annually.
Since starting 11 years ago, James, now 30, has personally delivered more than 630 school programs, providing comprehensive mental health education to more than 130,000 young people.
He said 85% of students reported making a positive life change.
