Welsh Rugby international Gareth Thomas was named Hero of the Year at the Stonewall Awards in London last night, where an Australian was also in the running.

Thomas (pictured first) was put forward for the award after coming out as the first openly-gay professional rugby union star. He has since used his profile to become an inspirational public advocate for gay equality.

On accepting his award, voted by thousands of Stonewall supporters, Thomas paid tribute to his parents.

“To be a hero, you have to follow in a hero’s footsteps. And there’s people here tonight who’ve been my heroes all my life and will be forever – that’s my mother and father,” he said.

The awards, held annually at a glittering ceremony at the Victoria and Albert Museum, celebrate those who have made a positive impact on the lives of lesbian, gay and bisexual people in Britain.

There is however one exception – with the less honourable Bigot of the Year award going to Conservative MP Chris Grayling who was recorded as saying that bed and breakfast inn owners should have the right to turn away gay couples despite legislation stating otherwise.

An Aussie icon

There was also an Australian connection on the night with swimmer Daniel Kowalski (pictured second) becoming only the second Aussie to be nominated for an award after Matthew Mitcham featured in 2008’s shortlist.

The athlete was nominated for both coming out earlier this year and speaking out against comments made by Jason Akermanis that AFL players should stay in the closet.

Kowalski told Same Same that the nomination “was overwhelming actually, but to be in that company was such an honor.

“I don’t think there are any losers in this instance. I’m still trying to find my feet and how exactly I can play my part within the gay community but I’m excited by the challenge.”

Other winners on the night included:

Writer of the Year: Stella Duffy and Rupert Smith (joint)

Journalist of the Year: Patrick Strudwick for his expose on ‘gay-cure’ therapists

Entertainer of the Year: EastEnders actor John Partridge

Sports Award: Martina Navratilova for winning the ladies invitational at Wimbledon despite recent treatment for breast cancer

Politician of the Year: Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow MP

Publication of the Year: The Times

Broadcast of the Year: Coronation Street for featuring their first lesbian storyline

Community group award went to MindOut – the LGBT arm of mental health charity Mind.