General News
21 January, 2025
Healthy Minds Group founder Gavin Morrow named Citizen of the Year
Gavin Morrow awarded, Horsham Rural City Council, Citizen of the Year 2025
Horsham businessman and community advocate Gavin Morrow has been named Horsham Rural City Council's 2025 Citizen of the Year for his extraordinary contributions to mental health, community well-being, and grassroots initiatives.
When Gavin learnt of his award, he said he was shocked to receive the phone call from mayor Ian Ross.
"The mayor called me, and I must admit I was shocked because it was so unexpected," he said.
"But on reflection, I must say I am incredibly proud.
"However, anything I have done has been done with my family; I have not done any of this alone.
"We have always felt it was a privilege to give as a family: it is something our late father did.
"He did a lot that went under the radar, and we have followed that tradition, so whoever nominated me must know me well.
"So far, I haven't worked out who it was but I am grateful to them!"
Gavin said keeping the award a secret was hard, but his mum (Barbara) found it even more difficult.
"I was allowed to tell my immediate family, so I told Mum, and she was even more excited than I was," he said.
"I had to make her swear to keep it a secret. I'm sure she'll be relieved when it is announced, and she can freely talk about it.
"I am incredibly grateful for this award, but I also feel somewhat embarrassed because I know so many people in the community have done so much.
"I hope they are nominated in future years," he said.
"On accepting this award, I will share it with my wife, family, and brothers because we do this together."
Gavin's extensive involvement in the community includes his dedication to the mental health and well-being of the community through the Healthy Minds Group he co-founded in 2009.
He continues to be a committee member and active participant, taking phone calls from people who need support.
Healthy Minds is a small community group that works to reduce the stigma of mental health, educating people to understand that controlling stress helps control depression and anxiety.
Gavin was prompted to bring Healthy Minds to Horsham following the death of a young friend.
"The number of people who shared their concerns about mental health and suicide prompted the launch of Healthy Minds in Horsham," he said.
"We knew something had to be done at the grass-roots level. It is a free service; we don't have any government funding. It is all run by volunteers and donations," he said.
"This is not something I have done alone; we have a committee of five and many others who help with the group."
Gavin is the dealer principal of Morrow Motor Group, along with his two brothers, Wade and Shannon.
In 2023, the company was recognised as regional Victoria's best large automotive business and was a finalist in 2024.
Their father, Kevin, who died in 2014 after a short illness with cancer, started the business 50 years ago.
"Through the business, we have been able to support the community in a number of ways, and that has been a privilege," Gavin said.
Gavin has held many executive positions within the community, including Wimmera Football League deputy commissioner.
In July 2024, he organised the Wimmera and Horsham District Football League CheckMate Round to raise awareness, reduce the stigma of mental health issues across both leagues and provide education for players and spectators.
He is a Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute member and the chair of Its fundraising committee.
He also holds the deputy chair position of the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, supporting the research of Professor George Kannourakis, the honorary director.
Gavin and his wife, Jodie, are foster carers and regularly provide a safe place for children in need.
In its 50 years of business, the Morrow Group has sponsored and supported numerous community events and activities.
Sponsorship includes six football clubs, four bowling clubs, five golf clubs and local schools, Carols by Candlelight, Horsham Arts Council, the Warracknabeal Christmas Promotion, and The Rainbow, Nhill and Warracknabeal Agricultural Shows.
He was a member of the Rotary Club from age 18 to 30 and the former Deputy Commissioner and Welfare Officer of the Wimmera Football and Netball League.
"I am incredibly grateful for this recognition and thank the Horsham Rural City Council for the honour," he said.