Mechelle Turvey, the mother of Indigenous Perth teenager Cassius Turvey, has been named WA’s Australian of the Year.
Ms Turvey was recognised for her advocacy work to prevent violence and improve the treatment of victims of crime.
Cassius was walking with friends in a Perth suburb last year when he was attacked by a group and later died in hospital.
His death sparked a wave of anger and grief around the country and saw 38 rallies held in cities and towns.
Ms Turvey has repeatedly spoken of the importance of not allowing what happened to her son to create further tension and violence in the community.
