Young Mentonian of The Year Award
The Young Mentonian of the Year Award is designed to acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of young Mentonians, 35 years of age and under.
This Award recognises young Mentonians who are making a difference in the community in Australia and/or overseas through outstanding contributions within their professional field or through their passions.
In choosing the recipients of the Young Mentonian of the Year, regard is given to the nominee’s achievements in the year immediately prior to receiving the award, as well as their past achievements and ongoing contribution to the community and/or their profession, as well as any other awards or recognitions. It does not matter what their background is or what type of work they do, if someone makes a positive difference they may be recognised.
Young Mentonian of The Year 2025
Congratulations to Kate Hore (Class of 2012) on being announced as our 2025 Young Mentonian of the Year Award recipient.
Kate has achieved extraordinary success as an elite athlete, leader, and advocate. As captain of Melbourne’s AFLW team for three seasons, she combined outstanding on-field performance with meaningful work off the field, mentoring emerging players, championing gender equality, and strengthening community engagement. Her influence has helped shape the AFLW nationally and continues to inspire young people to pursue their passions with courage and determination.
Award recipients by year
| Recipient | Alumni Year | Year of Award |
|---|---|---|
| Kate Hore | 2012 | 2025 |
| Daniel Maitland | 2010 | 2024 |
Award criteria and process
Benefit
The recipient will receive an Award Certificate and $2,500 from The Mentonians Association.
Award Criteria
Awards will not be made posthumously.
- The number of nominations received per nominee bears no weight on their selection.
- Unsuccessful nominees may be re-nominated in subsequent years.
- Self-nominations will be accepted.
- Group nominations will not be accepted.
- A person may be selected for the Award again in subsequent years if they make a further demonstrated contribution or new achievement but may not be selected in consecutive years.
- This award does not prevent an individual from being nominated for the Tony Drinan Medal at a future date.
- This award does not prevent an individual from applying for a Foundation PhD Scholarship.
- One award shall be granted in any calendar year. However, The Mentonians Association may choose to withhold this award in any given year if no suitable recipient is identified.
- Prize money can be utilised to support the endeavour being acknowledged, or at the discretion of the winner.
- Late nominations will not be accepted, but may be considered for the following year.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Attended Mentone Grammar for at least 3 years of schooling, including the completion of Year 12.
- Be 35 years of age or under as of 31 December in the nominating year.
- Self-nominations will be accepted.
- Recipients must be available to attend the Founders’ Day Service on 3 March 2027.
- Award may be accepted by a friend/family member or in absentia if overseas/interstate.
- Have not received a Young Mentonian of the Year Award in the preceding year.
Application Process
- Applications open: Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Applications Close: Tuesday 6 October 2026 @ 5.00pm
- Award Notification: Mid-December 2026
- Award Presentation: Wednesday 3 March 2027