Honouring The Legends Of Mackay At The 2026 Mackay Region Australia Day Awards

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Krystal Demaid – Access and Inclusion Achievement Award

Krystal Demaid has turned personal challenge into a platform for community impact. After a fall left her with Functional Neurological Disease and paralysis from the waist down, Krystal committed herself to reshaping perceptions of disability and demonstrating what is possible with determination. She mentors others navigating rehabilitation, advocates nationally for inclusion, disability awareness and mental health, and inspires through her honesty and lived experience.

Her sporting achievements are equally impressive. Since taking up wheelchair basketball in 2019, she has earned bronze and silver medals, a major trophy, and recognition as a rising talent. Playing with the Mackay Machines brought her into the national spotlight, earning an invitation to Australia’s women’s team, the Comets, with hopes to join the 2025 Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball Team. Krystal also made history as the first woman in Mackay to complete the 21km Marina Run in a wheelchair, overcoming setbacks to set a record.

Her advocacy, resilience, and sporting excellence earned her the 2026 Brenden Borellini Access and Inclusion Achievement Award.

Dr Alison Pighills – Environmental Achievement Award

Dr Alison Pighills has dedicated nearly a decade to wildlife rehabilitation, transforming her rural Mount Jukes property into a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals. Beginning with possums in 2016, her work has expanded to wallabies and koalas, with more than 100 wallabies successfully returned to the wild.

Alison serves as treasurer and koala coordinator for Fauna Rescue Whitsundays and led the creation of the Fauna Rescue Whitsundays Koala and Wildlife Rehabilitation Facility, officially opened in April 2025. The 40m by 40m sanctuary features a medical treatment room, isolation space, and outdoor bushland for koalas to practice foraging before release.

Her dedication has provided countless animals a second chance, while also fostering community awareness and involvement in wildlife conservation. Through her tireless efforts, Alison has made a profound and lasting contribution to Mackay’s environmental landscape, earning her the 2026 Environmental Achievement Award.

Nicole Thomson – Arts and Culture Award

Nicole Thomson is a driving force in Mackay’s performing arts community, combining leadership, expertise, and mentorship to enrich local culture. In 2025, she played a central role in productions at the MECC, guiding Mackay Choral Society members in Sisters Are Doing It for Themselves and leading the children’s chorus for Opera Australia’s La Bohème. Her meticulous preparation and calm leadership ensure performers of all levels thrive on stage.

Nicole has also contributed to Mackay Choral Society’s 80th anniversary, Carols by Candlelight, and the Exchange for Peace collaboration with Malaysian musicians. Her work extends to musical theatre, directing productions at CQUniversity and Mackay Musical Comedy Players. Nationally recognised, she presented research at the ANATS Conference in Melbourne and earned a nomination for the Lynette Denny Award.

Through her dedication, Nicole has nurtured emerging talent, strengthened community arts, and created lasting opportunities, securing her place as the 2026 Arts and Culture Award winner.

Mackay parkrun – Community Group Award

Mackay parkrun has become a vibrant fixture in the community, bringing people together every Saturday morning at 7am in the Botanic Gardens for a free 5km walk, jog, or run. Since its launch, the event has been held 466 times, entirely organised by volunteers, with Christine Davies and Michael Vella leading the way alongside a dedicated team.

The event is inclusive and welcoming, encouraging participants of all ages and abilities to get active in a safe, supportive environment. There are no time limits, and no one finishes last, creating a culture of celebration and camaraderie. Regular participation has grown into a thriving community of cheerleaders, friendships, and health-conscious residents.

Mackay parkrun’s success also inspired the creation of Seaview parkrun in Bucasia, extending the program to Mackay’s Northern Beaches. The initiative highlights the power of grassroots community engagement, improving health, fostering connections, and bringing joy to residents, making Mackay parkrun a standout nominee for the 2026 Community Group Award.

Ayla Moon – Young Sports Award

At just 14, Ayla Moon is emerging as one of Australia’s most promising middle-distance runners. Her performances across 2024 and 2025 have earned national recognition, highlighted by multiple championship wins and record-breaking runs.

In September 2025, at the Athletics North Queensland Championships in Townsville, Ayla captured gold in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m, and silver in the 200m, breaking championship records in both the 400m and 800m. She also won the 400m at the inaugural Run With Cathy Freeman event and claimed the national Under-14 400m title at the Australian All Schools Championships, placing second in the 800m.

Beyond her results, Ayla’s humility, determination, and dedication to supporting fellow athletes have set her apart. She is admired by coaches and peers alike for her work ethic and commitment. With her talent, drive, and leadership, Ayla is not just a champion athlete, but a role model for young sportspeople, earning her the 2026 Young Sports Award.

Daniel Mayfield – Senior Sports Award
Daniel “Danny” Mayfield has dedicated decades to developing hockey in Mackay, inspiring players of all ages while strengthening the local sporting community. A talented player in his youth, Danny represented both Mackay and Queensland across multiple age groups, culminating in his selection for the Australian Masters team.

However, his greatest impact has been as a coach. He has guided numerous teams, including Mackay’s Under-14 boys at the Queensland titles, blending tactical expertise with encouragement and patience. Danny also contributed to indoor hockey, coaching the Under-18 boys’ indoor team to a state championship in 2023 and earning recognition as a Queensland coach.

Beyond the field, Danny has served on the executive of the Mackay School Hockey Association, offering his time, leadership, and guidance wherever needed. His dedication, skill, and community spirit have elevated the sport locally, inspiring countless players. For his lifelong commitment to hockey and the Mackay community, Danny is the deserving recipient of the 2026 Senior Sports Award.

Edie Weiss – Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award

For 25 years, Edie Weiss has been a cornerstone of suicide prevention and crisis support in Mackay through her work with Lifeline Australia. Her dedication extends across Grapevine Suicide Prevention initiatives, Run for Mi Life, and widespread delivery of SafeTALK training to community groups.

Edie also facilitates the two-day ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) program, equipping participants, particularly those who work closely with people in crisis, with life-saving skills. Her commitment to suicide prevention is underpinned by a vision to foster awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversation about mental health.

Her support extends beyond training, assisting vulnerable communities affected by natural disasters with communication and emotional support. Over the past 25 years, Edie’s tireless work has directly contributed to the wellbeing of thousands, providing reassurance, guidance, and hope to those in their most challenging moments. Her extraordinary commitment earned her the 2026 Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award.

Amelia Bishop – Young Citizen Award

Amelia Bishop exemplifies leadership, service, and community spirit. A dedicated volunteer, she contributes to the Mackay community through Eimeo Surf Lifesaving Club patrols, Mackay Road Runners, and the Mackay Marina Run. Within her school, Whitsunday Anglican, she serves as 2026 School Captain Elect, Zonta Club President, Year 1 Reading Program Coordinator, and SONY Camp Companion.

Amelia founded an Indigenous scrunchie business at just 11, showcasing entrepreneurship, creativity, and cultural pride. Her commitment to Indigenous health includes work experience with ATSICHS Mackay and the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, aligning with her aspirations to pursue a career in Indigenous health.

Her leadership, achievements, and contributions have been recognised through awards including the ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award and participation in prestigious programs like the ANU Indigenous Summer School and Queensland Surf Lifesaving Youth Excellence Leadership Program. Amelia’s dedication to service and cultural pride earned her the 2026 Young Citizen Award.

Col Benson – Citizen of the Year

Col Benson has dedicated more than 40 years to supporting veterans and families through the Mackay RSL Sub-branch. A Vietnam War veteran and long-serving member of the Royal Australian Air Force, he has shaped the community’s commemorative traditions with humble dedication.

Col plays a central role in organising ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Victory in Europe and Pacific Day ceremonies, the Rats of Tobruk tribute, the Bakers Creek Memorial, and the annual Fokker Friendship crash remembrance, ensuring each event honours Australia’s servicemen and women with solemnity and care.

He also educates young people on military history, fostering understanding and gratitude, while offering vital support to veterans and families in times of need, from mental health guidance to personalised funeral services. Through decades of service, leadership, and compassion, Col Benson embodies community spirit and is a fitting recipient of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Award.

Congratulations to all the award winners and nominees!

Col Benson – Citizen of the Year. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Amelia Bishop – Young Citizen Award. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Edie Weiss – Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award
Krystal Demaid – Access and Inclusion Achievement Award

Dr Alison Pighills – Environmental Achievement Award

Nicole Thomson – Arts and Culture Award
Mackay parkrun – Community Group Award
Ayla Moon – Young Sports Award. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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