An honour born of tragedy, Pakenham resident Robb Evans has been named Cardinia Citizen of the Year for his ongoing support of young people suffering from anorexia nervosa and their families, following the loss of his daughter, Olivia Evans, to the “insidious illness”.
Mr Evans was named Citizen of the Year last Thursday night at Cardinia Shire’s Australia Day ceremony, saying he was “truly honoured” while remaining resolute in his advocacy for greater awareness of eating disorders and reform in medical treatment.
“What an honour to be recognised amongst a room that gives us so much,” he said while accepting the award.
“My journey, unfortunately, started with the loss of my daughter two years ago, and I didn’t know what to do.”
Mr Evans’ daughter Olivia died in 2023 at the age of 15 after a years-long battle with anorexia nervosa.
Affectionately known as Liv, her father was determined to ensure her battle would leave a legacy of change.
“What I wanted to do was turn my pain into focus and make a difference to other young people who were suffering like Liv did.”
Initially, Mr Evans started a GoFundMe to support dog therapy programs for children suffering from terminal illness.
The inspiration came from Liv’s close affinity with dogs, which she found great comfort in during her battle.
Within just a few weeks, the fundraiser reached its goal of $10,000, supporting two dog therapy programs.
Mr Evans did not know at the time that this work would lead him across the country to the halls of Parliament.
His advocacy helped secure $6.5 million from the federal government for the Co-Design Workshop for the In-Home Program for Eating Disorders at Austin Health, laying the groundwork for stronger at-home care that could save lives.
Last year, he was invited to Parliament to discuss the social media ban with Prime Minister Albanese and the impact it may have had on his daughter.
Though the ban has been controversial since it was first implemented in December 2025, Mr Evans maintains that social media promotes unhealthy lifestyles for vulnerable children and that Liv’s battle may have been different if access had been limited.
Mr Evans’ advocacy is far from over, with potential work extending beyond Australia’s borders against what he describes as this “insidious illness”.
“My work is not done. There is so much more work that needs to be done.”
If you need help or support for an eating disorder or body image issue, please call Butterfly’s National Helpline on 1800 334 673 or email support@butterfly.org.au
