More than 50 local individuals and community groups have been nominated for the 2025 Australia Day Awards, recognising their exceptional contributions to the Bundaberg Region.
The annual awards celebrate those who have made a meaningful impact on the community, either through personal actions or initiatives that enrich the lives of others and strengthen the social fabric of the region.
This year’s nominations include 15 community groups and 37 individuals who were selected through a public submission process in four categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, and Community Group of the Year.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the submissions showcased a diverse range of contributions from across the region.
“Australia Day is about celebrating the spirit of community, and it’s important that we recognise the incredible actions of our local people,” she said.
“From nominees including sporting champions, charity advocates, dedicated volunteers, and even locals involved in emergency rescues, these individuals and groups selected for the awards demonstrate excellence and a deep commitment to their community.”
All nominees will be honoured at the official 2025 Australia Day Awards ceremony on Friday 24 January at the Bundaberg Multiplex, from 3 pm for a 3.30 pm start.
An independent panel, made up of community members, will evaluate each nominee’s contribution to the community and announce the winners based on a carefully designed judging matrix.
Mayor Blackburn congratulated the 2025 award nominees.
“Good luck to each and every one of you – you are all incredibly deserving of this recognition,” she said.
The 2025 Australia Day Awards nominees are:
Citizen of the Year:
• Bill Moorhead
• Darren Enslin
• Dave Facer
• Elisa Mayberry
• George Reibelt
• Jo Leveritt
• John William Smith
• Kate Juillerat
• Katrina Maree Lane-Krebs
• Matt Griffiths
• Miranda Lammin
• Nadia Gillies
• Phillip and Maria Dunkley
• Sonja Pressler-McHugh (posthumous)
• Taryn Gollshewsky
• Trevor Green
• Trevor Standfast
• Wade Smith
Senior Citizen of the Year:
• Adele Freeman
• Alan Charles Williams
• Amy Guppy
• Barry and Margaret Cochrane
• Gloria Larsen
• Kenneth Paul Wilson
• Lyn Greer
• Mark Herron
• Neil Musch
• Raymond Phillips
• Vickie Mills
• Warren O’Brien
Young Citizen of the Year:
• Amelia Taylor
• Finn Cohen
• Harrison Titmarsh
• Jack Daw
• Jessica Steiner
• Jonty Murdoch
• Lucy Hamilton
Community Group of the Year:
• Bargara Beach Walkers (Heart Foundation)
• Brave Brothers
• Bundaberg Business Women’s Network
• Bundaberg Caledonian Pipe Band
• Bundaberg Cycling Club
• Bundaberg Players Inc
• Bundaberg Services Club
• Bundaberg Ukuleles
• Carinbundi
• GenesisCare Oncology
• Headlands Community Partnerships
• Partner in Care Transport
• The Clothes Basket
• The Kelly’s Creek Reserve Community Group
• Wide Bay Kids
For further information about the awards ceremony or nominees click here.
To register to attend the event click here.
