Ambassador for humanity

Moorabool’s Australia Day ambassador Vedran Drakulic (above) has committed to an active life in the community and is always willing to help others.

Mr Drakulic, the chief executive of Gandel Philanthropy, one of Australia’s largest independent family philanthropic funds, will be special guest at Moorabool council’s Australia Day celebrations at Ballan Mechanics Institute on January26.

Mr Drakulic, an Australia Day ambassador since 2010, says promoting social justice and cohesion is one of his main goals in the role.

He arrived in Australia as a refugee of the Bosnian war in the early ’90s and has been involved in many community activities since.

He’s also been active in a number of humanitarian organisations, including Australian Red Cross, Oxfam Australia and Scope.

Mayor Allan Comrie said Mr Drakulic would play an important role in local celebrations.

“We’re proud to welcome Mr Drakulic to be part of the community on this special occasion,” Cr Comrie said.

“It recognises us as Australians and as part of a wonderful community and nation.”

A list of Australia Day events in Moorabool can be found at www.moorabool.vic.gov.au