Seventeen outstanding individuals and community organisations have been recognised for their efforts as part of Western Downs Regional Council’s prestigious Local Australia Day Awards.
In the leadup to the region’s Australia Day celebrations, Western Downs Regional Council has revealed this year’s Local Awards recipients, acknowledging the amazing achievements of residents across four key categories.
Mayor Paul McVeigh said the Awards were about recognising excellence in our local towns in the areas of sport, creative arts, volunteering, and community organisations.
“Our region is made up of so many incredible community groups and individuals who work tirelessly to strengthen ties and bolster community spirit throughout the year and these Awards are about shining a light on these wonderful people and letting them know how much we value their efforts,” Cr McVeigh said.
“In 2024 we have 17 individuals and organisations receiving special recognition in the areas of creative arts, sports, or through an outstanding effort as a volunteer or community group, and the stories shared through the nominations process have been incredible.
“It’s also important to thank everyone who put forward a nomination for these Awards because without you, these amazing people would not receive the acknowledgement they deserve.
“It’s the people that make it on the Western Downs, and we are so excited to publicly recognise these unsung community legends as part of our Australia Day festivities on Friday 26 January.
“This is a special time to come together and reflect on the many great things about being an Australian, and I encourage everyone to head to their local event and be a part of our active, vibrant community.”
2024 Australia Day Awards – Local Award Winners
Local Volunteer of the Year
Chinchilla & District – Noel Deacon
Dalby & District – Leith Tebbit
Miles & District – Yvonne McMahon
Tara & District – Judith Bridge
Wandoan & District – Tessa Ives
Local Creative Arts Award
Chinchilla & District – Danica McGrath
Miles & District – Darryn Campbell
Local Community Organisation Achievement Award
Chinchilla & District – Chinchilla Touch Association Inc.
Dalby & District – Dalby Filipino-Australian Community Association
Jandowae & District – Bell Race Club
Wandoan & District – Wandoan Community Commerce & Industry
Local Sports Award
Chinchilla & District – Kyle Hindle
Dalby & District – Monique Smith
Jandowae & District – Lara Coombe
Miles & District – Mackensie Patch
Tara & District – Tilly Austin
Wandoan & District – Mitchell Symes
The Regional Citizen of the Year and Young Regional Citizen of the Year will be revealed on 26th January.
