Top honour for migrant

Mr Coseski, from Marangaroo, was recently awarded the Order of the Republic of Macedonia in recognition of his humanitarian and diplomatic work.

He was the only West Australian, from 13 people throughout the country, to receive the honour.

‘I’m extremely proud. To be rung up by the President of Macedonia, Gjorge Ivanov, out of the blue and be thanked for my work is very humbling,’ he said.

Mr Coseski was born in Macedonia, but migrated to Australia with his parents, who were searching for greater economic prosperity, in 1970 when he was six.

For the past 30 years he has been involved in numerous projects, in both Australia and Macedonia, to help strengthen the relationship between the two countries.

In 2007 he became an honorary consul.

‘When Macedonia became independent in 1991 it had a bit of a rough ride,’ he said.

‘It had to develop international recognition on the world stage and create stability following the break-up of Yugoslavia.’

‘As an independent country, they had to develop hospitals, schools and other essential services by themselves.’

Western Australia has the largest Macedonian community in the country, per head of population, with about 20,000 Macedonians living in the State.

Many have gone on to become highly successful especially in business and sport.

Mr Coseski has volunteered countless hours to community events, helping to organise sponsorship and fundraising in the Australian/Macedonian community to supply schools and medical equipment to the Macedonian people.

At the same time he has encouraged Australians to invest in Macedonian’s prospering tourism and trade industry.

‘It was really exciting to go back to Macedonia and meet people face-to-face and see how they’re benefiting from the work we’re doing.

‘The relationship between Macedonia and Australia is really good and is always improving. I’ll keep putting my hand up and continue to do what I can,’ he said.