The official presentation ceremony is expected to take place between April and May this year, but her contribution has long been well known to those who have seen her working tirelessly for decades to support cancer research and patient care.

Sicilian by heritage, Giunta was born in Australia to a family deeply connected to its Italian roots: her father migrated as a young man from the Aeolian island of Lipari, while her maternal grandparents came from the main island.

Growing up between Italian culture and Australian identity, she says she experienced “the best of both” in a family where community, food and close-knit relationships were at the heart of everyday life.

For many years, Giunta worked as a primary school teacher, beginning her career in Haberfield in the 1970s. At the time, it was a strong Italian area where language and dialects were part of daily school life.

The experience strengthened her connection with local families and the wider community. “When I go for a walk around Haberfield, I often run into former students—they still call me ‘Mrs Catherine’, and it fills my heart with joy,” she said.

However, it is through volunteering and fundraising that Giunta has made her most enduring impact. Her journey began in 1994 when, at her mother’s suggestion, she hosted a small morning tea to support Cancer Council NSW following the loss of an aunt to lymphoma.

What started as a simple gathering among friends grew year after year into a major annual event. After her mother was diagnosed with cancer, Giunta became even more determined to continue.

The initiative expanded rapidly—from early fundraising efforts that raised just a few dollars, to events attracting hundreds of attendees.

Over time, it moved across several venues before settling at the Deckhouse in Woolwich, where around 300 people now attend each year.

In 32 years, Giunta has raised close to $700,000 for cancer research and support services through Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, which has become a deeply valued fixture on the community calendar.

Her commitment became even more personal in 2012, when she herself was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Even during that difficult period, Giunta refused to pause her fundraising efforts. “I didn’t want the illness to take over,” she recalled, explaining that her response has always been to keep moving forward—turning hardship into energy for others.

Giunta said she first learned of her nomination in September, with the official confirmation arriving shortly before Christmas.

She described the honour as deeply moving and accepted it with humility, saying it was unexpected and never sought—but one that made her feel honoured to be recognised alongside so many others who contribute to the public good in different ways.