Meet Tasmania's Australians of the Year

Tasmania has named four individuals who will represent the state at the 2025 Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra. 

The four recipients span a range of fields from climate innovation to sport, health, and community leadership.

Founder of Sea Forest Sam Elsom, has been named Tasmania’s 2025 Australian of the Year for his groundbreaking work in reducing methane emissions. 

Mr Elsom developed a solution to help mitigate climate change by turning Asparagopsis, a native Australian red seaweed, into a livestock feed supplement that reduces methane emissions in animals.

Sea Forest’s product, "SeaFeed", contains bioactive compounds that stop methane production in livestock’s digestive systems, cutting down on one of the most potent greenhouse gases. 

Recently, Sea Forest was named a finalist for the $1.9 million Earthshot Prize, established by Prince William and renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough.

Acting Premier of Tasmania Guy Barnett congratulated Sam on his achievement.

“By dramatically reducing methane emissions, Sam is strengthening the sustainability of livestock industries, slowing global warming and potentially changing the course of our planet’s future,” he said.

Additionally, Associate Professor Penelope Blomfield, a gynaecological oncologist, was named Tasmania’s Senior Australian of the Year for her decades of service in the field of women’s health.

Ms Blomfield’s expertise in gynaecological cancers, alongside her dedication to advancing medical research and patient care, has made a profound impact on the lives of countless women in Tasmania.

Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year was Ariarne Titmus, Tasmania’s own swimming sensation.

Ms Titmus is an Olympic gold medalist and world champion renowned for her determination, work ethic, and achievements in the pool. 

Her rise to international fame has inspired millions, particularly young Australians, to pursue their passions with dedication and perseverance.

Young Leaders of Tasmania founder, Keren Franks, has been named Tasmania’s Local Hero for her work in empowering young people and fostering leadership across the state.

Ms Franks founded the youth-focused organisation to create opportunities for young Tasmanians to develop leadership skills, and has been a driving force in creating a more inclusive, engaged, and connected community.

Sam, Penelope, Ariarne and Keren will go on to represent Tasmania at the 2025 Australian of the Year Awards to be announced in Canberra on January 25, 2025.