🥇 Announcing the Inaugural Colin Mendelson Medal: Honouring Excellence in Tobacco Harm Reduction

By Pippa Starr – Alive Advocacy Movement

It is with immense pride and emotion that we announce the very first presentation of the Colin Mendelson Medal, a tribute that means more than words can express, and one that we hope will continue to inspire generations of advocates to come.

A Legacy of Change

Dr. Colin Mendelson, a pioneer in tobacco harm reduction in Australia, has left an indelible mark on the public health landscape. Though he retired from medical practice and public advocacy last year, his contributions and unwavering dedication continue to shape the movement for smarter, more compassionate nicotine policy.

To ensure his name—and his work—live on, we’ve created the Colin Mendelson Medal, an annual award recognising outstanding leadership and impact in the field of tobacco harm reduction.

And now, it’s time to reveal our very first recipient…

🏅 The Inaugural Colin Mendelson Medal Goes To... Alan Gore

We couldn’t think of a more deserving recipient than Alan Gore, a true powerhouse behind the scenes at the Alive Advocacy Movement.

As Colin himself shared during the presentation:

"Al’s been a driving force behind the Alive Advocacy Movement and has worked tirelessly to promote evidence-based vaping policy in Australia. Behind the scenes, he's been an absolute powerhouse—researching scientific papers, policy documents, and media stories to produce clear and compelling content.""He’s always there—mentoring, advising, and motivating other vapers. Al sets a fantastic example for all of us.""This is tough work, but it’s only with the passion and dedication of people like Al that we’ll turn around Australia’s misguided vaping policy."

Alan’s Story: More Than Advocacy

In a heartfelt video, Alan shared his own journey—from a young army recruit hooked on cigarettes, to decades of failed quit attempts, to finally finding freedom through vaping.

“Vaping didn’t just help me stop smoking. It gave me my life back.”“Through Alive, I realized my story wasn’t just personal. It was political. Our voice matters. We are the evidence.”

Alan’s story is one of courage, compassion, and conviction. He stands not just as an ex-smoker, but as a leader and voice for thousands of Australians who’ve been helped—and could be saved—by sensible harm reduction policies.

Honouring the Unsung Heroes

While Alan’s contribution is being formally recognised, we also want to acknowledge the many minds, many hands, and many hearts that make Alive what it is. There are so many working behind the scenes—mentors, advocates, designers, researchers, and everyday Australians who are standing up against misinformation and policy failure.

We see you. We appreciate you. And we’re just getting started.

🔥 The Fight Continues – Join the Movement

We know the road ahead won’t be easy. Many Australians are still being forced back to smoking due to harmful policies. But with leaders like Alan, and a community like Alive, we know change is possible.

Follow us. Share our message. Be part of the movement.

Let’s make vaping great again, for health, for truth, and for the people who deserve better.

Till next time,

Pippa Starr Founder, Alive Advocacy Movement

👏 Massive congratulations once again to Alan Gore—the inaugural Colin Mendelson Medalist. You make us proud.

🎥 Watch the full presentation here.