Community
23 October, 2026
Pride of Warrnambool
WARRNAMBOOL’S Daisy Ye has taken out the prestigious People’s Choice Award at the 7NEWS Community Achievement Awards (Australia).
An elated and humbled Daisy was presented with the award during a special ceremony in Melbourne last Saturday night.
She was also named as one of 28 finalists (across seven award categories) in the Regional Development Victoria Leadership and Innovation Award (from among more than 200 nominations state-wide).
“It was so inspiring to hear all the incredible achievements of the other finalists,” Daisy said.
“I’m so proud and so humbled to have ranked number one in the People’s Choice Award. I’m so very grateful for the support of the Warrnambool community and for the way the entire district has welcomed me and embraced my culture and my differences.”
Born and raised in Shanghai China, Daisy travelled to Australia just nine years ago with her husband Phil.
The couple spent time with Phil’s family in Bundaberg and then planned to tour the country in their caravan, exploring various states.
“We had big plans to travel the country in our van but along the way I fell pregnant and amid all our medical appointments we found the staff at Warrnambool were the most welcoming,” Daisy said.
“So we stayed put. Warrnambool was such a welcoming town and a wonderful place to raise our son; no-one seems to mind my English with an accent.”
While she has only lived in Warrnambool for a relatively short period (seven years) Daisy has already made a huge impact on the local community.
As president of the Warrnambool Multicultural Association, this inspiring leader continues to work hard to break down barriers for migrants and refugees, and to help encourage acceptance and a sense of intrigue and curiosity among the entire community.
“We have so many wonderful volunteers doing wonderful things, not just associated with our multicultural group, but across the Warrnambool community in general,” Daisy said.
“This People’s Choice Award is not just about me, it’s about our entire community and I sincerely thank everyone who took the time to vote for me.
“This award reflects the work we are all doing, in so many different ways, to promote acceptance and understanding. Our community is thriving and we need to continue to work to create space for all.”
While Daisy was extremely grateful to all those who had supported her on her journey since arriving in the district, she was particularly grateful for the support of her family.
“I’m very lucky to have such a supportive husband who always has my back,” she said.
“Phil and his family introduced me to the way of life in Australia and they have always supported my ideas and the many voluntary hours I have given through various groups and events.”
Earlier this year Daisy landed what she considers the perfect role for her at Deakin University – with the team at Deakin Create.
Create stands for Centre for Refugee Employment, Advocacy, Training and Education.
It is focused on supporting refugees and migrants to rebuild their careers through research, career clinics, education access and policy advocacy.
“I am working with local refugees and migrants to help improve their employment, education and career outcomes,” Daisy said.
“It is a very rewarding role that allows me to use my experiences and my knowledge to help others as they settle into life in this beautiful part of the world.
“Shanghai and Warrnambool are certainly worlds apart but I feel very privileged and honoured to call Warrnambool home.”
