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Ocean Hater's Million-Dollar Lifesaving Feat
17 Feb
Summary
- She raised hundreds of thousands for charities.
- She secured $1m in grants for a surf club.
- She was nominated for a community legends award.
Katrina Pastourmoglou, a resident of Valentine, south of Newcastle, has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to community service, often in the face of personal adversity. Diagnosed with a brain tumor, her daughter Ellie's condition spurred Mrs. Pastourmoglou to raise significant funds for the Mark Hughes Foundation. Similarly, her best friend Karen Starrett's terminal breast cancer diagnosis motivated her to support the Hunter Breast Cancer service.
Her action-oriented approach also benefited the Swansea Belmont Surf Life Saving Club. As a volunteer director for ten years, she was instrumental in acquiring $1 million in grants for the club, an achievement notable given her personal aversion to swimming in the ocean. She continues to provide care for her daughter, who has lasting vision impairment from her medical treatments.
Mrs. Pastourmoglou's dedication extends to raising $60,000 annually for the Mark Hughes Foundation through the Beanie for Brain Cancer initiative over the past six years. Her profound impact has earned her a nomination for the Bunnings Community Legends Awards, launching February 18, 2026, which celebrate inspiring local heroes across various categories. The overall winner will receive a $10,000 donation to their chosen charity.
