Canberra Citizen of the Year
2016
Narelle Hargreaves
Mrs Narelle Hargreaves OAM is recognised for her services to children and young people through her devoted work with the ACT Children’s Week Committee, as Official Visitor for Children, Young People and Disability, and her long career as a teacher, principal and Director of ACT Government schools.
Throughout her career and her many voluntary roles, Mrs Hargreaves strives to ensure that all children feel included and cared for in our community. Through her role as Official Visitor she advocates on behalf of some of most vulnerable young people, ensuring they have a voice.
She is known for her respectful and collaborative approach when working to improve the systems which support children and young people in the ACT.
A member of the Children’s Week Committee since 1984, she has ensured the importance of children is highlighted every year.
Mrs Hargreaves is a long-term Canberran, calling this city home since 1970. She also has a passion for Japan and has supported the Canberra Nara Sister City relationship since its beginnings in 2004.
Awards and Distinctions
2008 Medal of the Order of Australia for service to education, particularly in the areas of child and teacher development and welfare, and through a range of executive roles with professional organisations.
2015 Australian Council for Education Leaders (ACEL) Honorary Fellowship
2016 Canberra Citizen of the Year for her services to children and young people through her devoted work with the ACT Children’s Week Committee, as Official Visitor for Children, Young People and Disability, and her long career as a teacher, principal and Director of ACT Government schools.