Whitsunday Regional Council is seeking more nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, with the closing date now extended to Thursday, 28th November.
The Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organisations across the region. Mayor Ry Collins is encouraging everyone to take a moment to nominate someone special.
“We all know someone whether they’re a high achiever or a quiet contributor who deserves recognition for making our community stronger, inclusive and more connected,” Mayor Collins said.
“Taking a few minutes to nominate them is a great way to shine a spotlight on their hard work and dedication. These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the people and groups who make the Whitsunday Region such an exceptional place to live.”
The Awards recognise excellence across a range of categories:
• Citizen of the Year Award – Honouring individuals aged 27 years or older as of 26 January 2026 who have made significant contributions to the Whitsunday Region or provided outstanding service to the community.
• Young Citizen of the Year – Celebrating young people aged 16–26 as of 26 January 2026 who have positively impacted the community.
• Community Event of the Year – A standout event that has made a meaningful local impact.
• Spirit of the Whitsundays Award – Recognising generosity, pride and contributions that strengthen community connection.
• Corporate Community Contribution of the Year – Honouring business-led initiatives or support that benefit our region.
• Community Champion Award – Mayoral Award – Selected by the Mayor to acknowledge exceptional voluntary contributions in arts, culture, sport or service.
• Volunteer of the Year Award – Celebrating volunteers of all ages who have significantly contributed to the Whitsunday Region. This award is presented in honour of Wally Hinschen.
How to Nominate:
• Complete the online nomination form via Your Say Whitsunday.
• Download a PDF nomination form from the Your Say Whitsunday website.
• Collect and submit a hard copy from any Council Customer Service Centre at Collinsville, Bowen, Proserpine or Cannonvale.
Nominations close 5pm, Thursday 28th November, so don’t miss your chance to recognise the unsung heroes of our region.
Further information on the Australia Day Award celebrations will be provided at a later date.
The 2025 Whitsunday Citizen of the Year was Matt Stokes President of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network. Photo sourced: Whitsunday Life Newspaper
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