Leeuwin II Captain James Rakich and homelessness advocate Freya Cheffers have both been named 2026 Fremantle Community Citizen of the Year, for their contribution to the city’s maritime and vulnerable communities over many years, while the West Australian Skateboarding Association received the Active Citizenship – Community Group or Event Award.
This year, after a very competitive process, the selection committee gained permission from Auspire to award two people with the honour of Community Citizen of the Year.
James Rakich led the complex and demanding rebuild of the Leeuwin II following its dismasting when a container ship hit the vessel in August 2024. He oversaw the successful restoration of the ship, ensuring safety, quality, and continuity of mission.
With the ship now returned to the water, James’ leadership has ensured the Leeuwin II is not only structurally renewed but spiritually strengthened-resuming its vital role in delivering life-changing sail training experiences for young Western Australians.
His dedication to youth leadership, community service, and the transformative power of sail training has safeguarded a treasured Western Australian icon and ensured its legacy will continue for generations to come.
“We just set the sail for the first time in over 500 days. It’s amazing to get to that point. The volunteer involvement is what allows you to keep on working through what was really quiet a gruelling project. It’s not exactly a wicket you decide to take up, but if it is you holding the ball at the time, you feel like you need to take it on,” Mr Rakich said.
Freya Cheffers is a dedicated community champion that supports people experiencing homelessness, providing meals, clothing, medical items, and, in some cases, shelter in her own home.
Beyond material support, Freya offers hands-on assistance-transporting people to appointments, helping them navigate complex systems, and providing guidance through everyday challenges- demonstrating a level of compassion and commitment that goes far beyond typical volunteer work.
She was previously involved in organising community fundraising dinners and online campaigns that foster connection and inclusion, and embodies the true spirit of community service and compassion.
“It’s not work for me, it’s from the heart. It’s really strange to get an award for doing what I do to help my mates. I see every human as a friend, and if there’s a friend in need, they’ll have a friend in me,” Ms Cheffers said.
The Active Citizenship – Community Group or Event Award went to the West Australian Skateboarding Association (WASA), which is driven entirely by volunteers and organises free, inclusive events bringing together local residents, families and visitors through food, music, and shared public space while also educating the community on skateboarding.
This group has played a critical role in protecting and advocating for the retention of the world-famous Woolstores skate ledge and saving the Captain Munchies Skatepark from demolition.
WASA received extensive local and national media coverage and resulted in skateboarding being formally recognised as a culturally significant part of Fremantle’s history that will continue to thrive under their community initiatives.
“We’re often viewed sort of as outsiders, but we’re also committed to being a part of this community. It’s really nice to see us recognised by the broader community. I think we showed through our events and activations that skating really is a big part of the fabric of Fremantle. There are so many benefits to skating like better mental health and engagement of at-risk youth,” said Rowan White from WASA.
The awards were presented by Fremantle Mayor Ben Lawver at a ceremony at Walyalup Civic Centre on Tuesday evening, where he noted that the calibre of nominees was incredible.
“Their contributions-whether through volunteer work, advocacy, mentorship, or acts of kindness-remind us that true greatness is measured not by what we take, but by what we give.
“In times of challenge, they have stepped up. In times of need, they have extended a helping hand. And in every moment, they have inspired us to be better, to do more, and to serve with purpose.
“You are the reason our city thrives, and we are all better because of you,” said Mayor Lawver.
