The Rockhampton Region is home to many outstanding achievers, and we need your help to give them the recognition they deserve by nominating them for a 2023 Australia Day Award.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the Australia Day Awards allow us to publicly recognise the special people in our community who've gone above and beyond to help improve the lives of others and contribute to the Rocky Region.
"We all know that certain individual or group that goes the extra mile, dedicating their time and effort to ensure the betterment of our community," said Mayor Williams.
"Our seven award categories have been specifically designed to highlight those who make a difference across various aspects of our community.
"Recognisable contributions could be their involvement in local clubs, sporting groups, volunteering, charity work, business, cultural or youth groups or those who take on an advocating role to speak up for their community.
"So, if you know a friend, group, colleague or relative, someone who deserves acknowledgement for their achievements, help us recognise their efforts and nominate them for a Rockhampton Region Australia Day Award."
2022 Citizen of the Year, Mrs Jennifer Hilcher said she was extremely honoured to receive an award and recognition for her work.
"We don't partake in community activities to receive such awards, but being recognised is very much appreciated," Mrs Hilcher said.
"Our community has many organisations with many volunteers. I encourage these organisations to nominate the valuable community personnel to continue the circle of our community working and volunteering to make it a wonderful environment for all."
2022 Community Initiative Award winner, Rockhampton Relay for Life spokesperson Glenys Kirkwood, said she is a strong supporter of the opportunity to recognise outstanding people in our community through the Australia Day Awards.
"Through my various community involvements, I recognise almost every day how many extraordinary people contribute to our community," Mrs Kirkwood.
"The opportunities offered to the public by those who happily, selflessly and willingly share their time and expertise for the pleasure or smooth operation of so many events and organisations are absolutely outstanding.
"In 2022, our Relay for Life committee felt proud to have their hard work and dedication recognised.
"It was a very satisfying way to recognise the hours of work happily contributed for that year and for the 20 years of committee members who have gone before, with the result of many thousands of dollars raised going toward life-changing research and services that impact so many.
"I would enthusiastically encourage people to nominate a person or persons they admire who they believe needs recognition.
"Whether they are individuals or groups, Australia Day Awards are a perfect opportunity to shine the spotlight on people who contribute so much to the pleasure of living in Rockhampton."
Nominating a local inspiration has never been easier! Complete the online form and share why you think your nominee deserves an award.
Submit your nomination via https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/AustraliaDayAwards.
Submit your nomination by 5 pm Sunday, 18 December 2022. The 2023 Rockhampton Region Australia Day Award categories are:
- Citizen of the Year
- Young Citizen of the Year
- Community Service Award
- Cultural Award
- Sportsperson of the Year
- Sports Official of the Year
- Community Initiative Award
Winners will be announced on 26 January 2023 at our Australia Day event.
