They are eight individuals who in different ways have made an outstanding contribution. Four men and four women, honoured not just for the excellence they have displayed in their chosen professions but for the way they have used their influence, knowledge and authority to change the world around them. A human rights lawyer, a former army general, a conservationist, a mentor to troubled youth, a nurse working on the frontline of the ebola epidemic, a campaigner for gender equality, an advocate for the transgender community and a surgeon. The winner will be announced on Monday night, taking over from the 2015 Australian of the Year, Rosie Batty.