Stuart Appleby

Sportsman and benefactor

2008 VIC Australian of the Year

Stuart Appleby is a highly successful sportsman and a great community activist. He has won our most important golfing honour, the Australian Open, and consistently features in the top ten of world golf rankings. Stuart is a strong supporter of the Challenge Foundation, raising money for children with cancer. He not only gives of his time and energy, but has personally donated more than a million dollars. After visiting his parents’ farm he saw firsthand the devastation and despair caused by drought. Now Stuart also supports beyondblue, with a special focus on combating depression in rural communities. Through his ‘birdie meter’ he raises donations for every birdie he makes in tournaments. Stuart has a wonderful ability to relate to people of all ages and is the driving force behind Victoria’s junior golf foundation. He is a role model as an international achiever and a caring contributor to the community.