I don't think Australian of The Year is a quest to find the best or most virtuous Australian. If it was the same person would probably win it every year. It's about someone who can be a symbol and role model for the population. Sometimes it goes to someone unheard of and unheralded outside of their field, at other times it goes to a celebrity. Our national consciousness is made up of both types. It does seem the award is at it's most controversial when it goes to a black. It's been awarded to sports people before without being opposed so vehemently.
