Five Tasmanians have been awarded Kellion Victory Medals during a special ceremony recently (Thursday, 24 September 2026), marking the start of events across Australia to recognise decades of living with diabetes.  

Now in its 42nd year, Hobart saw one 75-year, two 70-year, and two 50-year medals presented, collectively representing more than 315 years of life with diabetes. The Kellion Victory Medal recognises Australians who have lived with diabetes for 50 years or more.  

Recipients reflected on early life with diabetes, the changes in monitoring, management, and technologies that have occurred over their lifetimes, as well as the vital role that supporters, carers, family, and medical professionals have played in their lives.  

Diagnosed aged 15, and looking back on her 75 years of living with diabetes, Ms Kathleen Wordsworth spoke about the advances in diabetes care, from using test tubes and Bunsen burners for glucose testing, reusable horse needles of insulin injections, to today’s continuous glucose monitors.  

 Ms Wordsworth is the second Tasmanian to be awarded a 75-year medal. 

Navigating several other life challenges, including surviving cancer, pregnancy complications, and coeliac disease, she hasn’t let her diabetes hold her back.  

“There was never an easy day with diabetes. I had landed in hospital only once, coming close to a coma,” she said.  

“Through it all, I never let diabetes stop me, travelling through China at 80 years of age to raise funds for Diabetes Tasmania, visiting England and Sri Lanka, even competing in ballroom dancing in New Zealand, winning a cup. 

“Receiving the Kellion Medal means everything to me. It’s 75 years of continuous learning and balancing.” 

Diabetes Australia General Manager Tasmania Minke Hoekstra congratulated the five recipients, saying their achievements were inspirational to the wider diabetes community.  

“It’s an incredible honour to recognise the achievements of all Kellion Medal winners, and to also recognise their carers and supporters too,” Ms Hoekstra said.  

“Thank you also to Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, Treasurer Eric Abetz, Kellion Victory Medal Ambassador Gordon Bunyan, and Blue Circle Collective representatives Justin Morris and Youth Ambassadors Emily Mason and Ella Miller for your attendance and ongoing support.” 

A Letter of Congratulations from Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Tasmania’s 30th Governor and Diabetes Australia Patron, also made the morning a special occasion to remember. 

Congratulations to this year’s Tasmanian Kellion Victory Medal and Supporter Award recipients: 

• Ms Kathleen Wordsworth (75 years, supporter: Marie MacDougall) 

• Mrs Kay Ball (70 years, supporter: Kelvin Ball) 

• Mrs Cynthia Roberts (70 years, supporter: Dick Roberts) 

• Mrs Gina Lampard (50 years, supporters: Mike Lampard and Dr Rob Walters) 

• Ms Lisa Wolf (50 years, supporter: Sally Wolf) 

Having diabetes affects the whole family. Supporters and carers play a major role in assisting a person with diabetes to live a full and satisfying lifestyle; the Kellion Supporter’s Award recognises many years of love, dedication and support. 

Sydney and Brisbane will host further Kellion Victory Medal ceremonies over the coming weeks.