Graceville local Katie McCord has been named a finalist in the 2025 Queensland Youth Volunteer of the Year Award for her work across sport, education, and youth advocacy.
Recognition for Young Volunteer from Graceville
Katie McCord, a volunteer with the Southwest United Hockey Club in Graceville, has been acknowledged as one of Queensland’s leading youth volunteers, earning a place among the finalists at the 2025 Queensland Volunteering Awards.
Held at Brisbane City Hall on 16 May, the awards ceremony highlighted Ms McCord’s wide-ranging contributions to youth development and education, placing her alongside other recognised individuals from across the state.
Contributions Across Sectors
Ms McCord’s volunteer roles span multiple sectors, starting with her involvement in sport at Southwest United Hockey Club. Initially appointed as Media Officer, she later took on coaching and mentoring responsibilities, supporting young athletes in building confidence and resilience.
Beyond sport, she is actively engaged in youth advocacy. As a member of the Bravehearts Youth Advisory Committee, Ms McCord contributes to policy discussions around consent education and child safety.
Her commitment to global education is reflected in her role as a Global Youth Ambassador with Their World. She also leads student initiatives at QUT, including the QUT Business Club and the Behavioural Economics Club, which she founded.
Her previous volunteer experience includes teaching viola at the Australian International School in Dubai and mentoring students at Bundaberg State High School through music workshops and community liaison work.
Acknowledged During Volunteer Week
Ms McCord’s recognition comes as part of National Volunteer Week (19–25 May), which this year carries the theme “Connecting Communities”. The event, organised by Volunteering Queensland and supported nationally by Volunteering Australia, celebrates the impact of formal and informal volunteers across the country.
Volunteering Australia noted that around six million Australians formally volunteer, with many more contributing informally, particularly during times of crisis or economic strain.
Academic and Local Recognition
Ms McCord is currently completing a Bachelor of Business in Behavioural Economics at QUT. She has been involved in research projects examining strategies to understand and influence human behaviour.
In addition to her state-level finalist placement, she was previously named Brisbane’s Young Citizen of the Year in 2025.
Published 19-May-2025
