Time to Celebrate Our Community Champions

Every community has people who simply get things done.

They're the ones setting up before everyone else arrives and packing up after everyone has gone home. They're coaching kids after work, running sausage sizzles on weekends, checking in on neighbours, planting trees, raising money for good causes or serving on committees because they genuinely care about where they live.

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Most never ask for recognition. In fact, they'd probably tell you they're just doing what anyone else would do.

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But I don't think we should ever take those people for granted.

That's why nominations for the 2027 Whitsunday Australia Day Awards are so important.

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These awards are about recognising the quiet achievers and local champions who help make our region a better place to live. They remind us that strong communities are built by people who are prepared to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand.

Every year I have the privilege of reading the nomination stories, and they never fail to inspire. Some nominees have dedicated decades to local sporting clubs, while others have made an incredible difference through volunteering, community service, environmental projects, the arts or simply being there whenever someone needs support.

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We also have some amazing young people in our region who are already making a positive impact, and these awards are a great opportunity to acknowledge their efforts as well.

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There are categories recognising achievements in sport, arts and culture, environmental stewardship, community service and volunteering, along with awards for outstanding community groups and the prestigious Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year.

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If you've ever thought, "They deserve some recognition," now is the time to act.

A nomination doesn't have to be perfect. It simply needs to tell the story of why that person or group has made a difference and why they deserve to be celebrated.

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I know there are countless unsung heroes right across the Whitsundays whose contributions often happen behind the scenes.

Let's make sure they receive the recognition they've earned.

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Nominations close at 4pm on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. I encourage everyone to think about someone who's made a difference in your community and put their name forward. It could mean far more to them than you realise.

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