10th February, 2026.
Elise Pardy won the Disability Inclusion Award at the 2026 Wollondilly Shire Council Australia Day awards. She is committed to improving the quality of life for people diagnosed with life-limiting illnesses, particularly motor neurone disease, as part of a specialist multidisciplinary local team. Elise's care and commitment to her work as an occupational therapist and fitness instructor has made a significant and lasting difference to many in our community. Her work providing equipment and arranging links with services and supports to improve independence, safety and quality of life for her clients and their families and carers often enables her clients to remain at home. In addition to her professional achievements, which include completing a graduate certificate in palliative care after being awarded a scholarship, Elise also volunteers her time to knit Trauma Teddies for the Red Cross. She is the 2025 national Spartan champion for the 30- to 34-year age group. Elise grew up in the Oaks and has worked in the local area for many years. She is a gym instructor at the local gym, where she helps improve the fitness levels of participants.