Frankston Basketball is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our CEO, Wayne Holdsworth, who has been named Frankston City Council’s 2025 Citizen of the Year. Wayne was recognised at a special ceremony held on Sunday at the Frankston Arts Centre for his contributions to our community.
Wayne received this prestigious award in acknowledgment of his powerful advocacy against sexual extortion, his dedication to protecting mental health, and his tireless efforts to create a safer and more supportive community.
Wayne’s work through SmackTalk, the organisation he founded, is particularly inspiring. Following the loss of his son Mac to suicide in 2023, Wayne turned his grief into action, becoming a relentless advocate for mental health awareness. Through SmackTalk, Wayne and his team educate individuals, groups, and organisations on the life-changing value of effective listening. Wayne’s mission is to combat the silent epidemic of suicide by fostering better communication and support networks – not only within our community, but worldwide.
In addition to spearheading SmackTalk, Wayne has been instrumental in helping shape the Albanese Government’s recent push enforce a minimum age limit for social media access. This advocacy included a national campaign called #Unplug24 – encouraging everybody to switch off from social media for 24 hours on October 24.
“This award is wonderful recognition for the amazing work Wayne is doing with suicide prevention,” FDBA President Tim Bower said.
“He has taken the tragedy of losing Mac as a catalyst to educate and help others. We are absolutely inspired and proud of what he is doing, Wayne isn’t just changing lives, he is saving lives.
“We are equally proud of Tanya Thomas, our Inclusion and Programs Support Officer, who was also nominated for Frankston Citizen of the Year. Her commitment to fostering inclusivity and supporting our programs exemplifies the heart and soul of Frankston Basketball,” Bower said.
We extend our congratulations to Wayne Holdsworth and to all of this year’s Citizen of the Year nominees. Your efforts motivate us all to make a difference.
For those interested in learning more about SmackTalk or arranging a session, please visit smacktalk.com.au