A Champion for Change: Patchara Weggers’ Lasting Impact on Her Community
Patchara Weggers is a community member who leads by example; who commits her whole self to a number of social and community issues to fight for change and justice.
For eight years, Patchara has made an incredible impact as Chair of the Rockingham Senior High School Board. Seeing the need for changes and upgrades, Patchara fought for funds to be given to the school of no less than $80 million.
“My role as Board Chair has given me the opportunity to bring awareness and push for what has been overlooked in our school for our students and teachers. It has enabled me to look more deeply into the education system.
“It is important for me to be able to bring changes that have not been accomplished before, to make a huge impact for students, teachers and the local community for generations to come.”
Originally from Thailand, Patchara believes that opportunity and respect should be available to all regardless of race or gender. Within her role – not only in the school, but the wider community – she leads with equity in mind.
“I believe good leadership should inspire and empower people, should have empathy and understand different perspectives. Leadership should be reliable, honest and transparent, and take accountabilities for mistakes. A good leader should always lead by example.”
Beyond Rockingham Senior High School, Patchara is very active within the community. She has personally funded a rugby league scholarship since 2013 and served as Community Service Director in the Palm Beach Rotary Club. She has also completed various fundraising campaigns for veterans and children, including walking over 200km as part of March On, raising more than $4,500 to support Soldier On’s mental health services and programs for veterans and their families.
“I genuinely care about those who are doing it tough in our community. Contributing to your community helps community grow, build stronger local connections and helps unite people from different social and economic background. It is a great way to build new friendships and share similar values.”
For her contributions and impact, Patchara was name City of Rockingham’s 2026 Community Citizen of the Year.
“It was a great honour to be chosen as a Community Citizen of the Year. I was very surprised to receive the acknowledgement, and very humbled at the same time.
I have since been invited to different workshops and handing out the Aussie of the Month Award at Secret Harbour Primary School. I have also had a few people whom I have never met, come up and congratulate me for my effort in the community.”
Patchara’s hopes for the future of Australia?
“I hope no child gets left behind in family life and education. All our kids deserve a good quality of life as they are our future. They should have a safe environment to grow and should never go to bed hungry.”
If you know someone like Patchara, nominate them for Community Citizen of the Year Award. Nominations for the 2027 Awards close 31 October 2026.