Those who move here to call Tasmanian home or visit the Apple Isle all say how friendly we are compared to other states.

We have an enviable lifestyle.

You can walk for miles along beautiful beaches and not pass another person. We have secret fishing spots, mountains to climb and caves to explore. Our food and wine is world-class.

People can work in the city and live in the country.

We promote and celebrate innovation.  

When our mates or neighbours are having a hard time, we lend a hand. It’s just what we do.

We are lucky to live in state surrounded by inspirational people.

The Australian of the Year awards help us to identify those who are constantly going that extra mile to improve our communities and country.

That recognition is important for many reasons.

We should take the time to acknowledge those who have contributed greatly to society. It’s important we also take the time to nominate those deserving people.

Their behaviours, actions, emotions and words are great examples of Australian identity.

They exemplify the traits and characteristics we want identified with being Australian.

Previous Tasmanian Australian of the Year award winners have included LGBT rights activist Rodney Croome, food microbiologist Professor Thomas McMeekin AO, conservationist and tourism operator Robert Pennicott, Tasmanian devil campaigner Bruce Englefield and conservationist Jane Hutchinson.

Scott Rankin is a fantastic addition to this field. Mr Rankin works as a theatre director, writer and is an arts charity leader.

He established Big hART, which uses arts to promote and bring about social justice. His team works with Australians telling the invisible stories in remote, regional and urban areas.

The subject matters include domestic violence, incarceration, addiction, homelessness and intergenerational injustice faced by indigenous Australians.

It’s the actions of people like Mr Rankin that will ensure Australia continues to be the lucky country.