Wayne Sticher

I’m driven by a simple belief: everyone deserves to feel seen, valued and connected.

During 30 years as a firefighter, I learned that community is built through everyday acts of care. In life’s most difficult moments, I saw how a simple touch or quiet reassurance could bring comfort and hope.

That truth resurfaced during complex surgeries to restore my eyesight. Surrounded by technology and specialists, it was the warmth of a hand in mine that grounded me.

Those experiences reshaped my values and deepened my commitment to helping others.

Retirement didn’t slow me down; it clarified my purpose.The turning point came when my parents entered aged care. I saw people surrounded by others yet still longing for companionship, conversation and the feeling of being truly noticed. It became clear that loneliness is not simply being alone — it is feeling unseen. That realisation ignited my determination to create opportunities for connection.

This led me to establish Cycling Without Age Gold Coast, where we have now provided over 60,000 free rides for people ranging from young children with disability to a 108 year old passenger. Watching people reconnect with their community, share stories and experience joy reaffirms that social connection isn’t a “nice to have”; it is essential.

Today, I volunteer across five organisations, lead teams of volunteers and serve on the National Seniors Australia Advisory Council. My work focuses on reducing social isolation, strengthening community participation and supporting volunteers so they can make a lasting impact.

A Churchill Fellowship will enable me to learn from global leaders in volunteering, social connection and community engagement.

My goal is to bring back practical, scalable ideas that help Australians of all ages find meaningful ways to contribute — creating stronger communities where everyone feels connected, valued and a sense of belonging.