Jodie McRae, Lismore’s Australia Day Citizen
Jodie McRae, Lismore’s Australia Day Citizen

The founder of local charity Jodie’s Inspiration, which has raised $105,000 for medical equipment at Lismore’s oncology units in six months, has been named Lismore’s 2016 Australian Day Citizen of the Year.

Jodie McRae was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer in 2013 but after being given the all-clear was diagnosed with secondary cancer the following year.

Jodie is a mother of two and a local business owner. The success of Jodie’s Inspiration has matched her personal motto of ‘Live Life Large’.

Lismore Mayor Jenny Dowell said, “Those who know this amazing woman also know that Jodie is an inspiration to many people in everything she does and in her attitude to life.”

After being awarded the top Australia Day honour, Jodie said, “I was blown away… it's just awesome. Best thing ever! There are so many people out there doing such great things for our community, and you never expect something like this to be given to you.”