Nominations for the 2025 Bundaberg Region Australia Day Awards have been extended to 6 January and residents are encouraged to recognise a local leader.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s annual awards recognise community members who go above and beyond to contribute to the region.
From individuals to groups Mayor Helen Blackburn said there were plenty of worthy recipients.
“Every day in the Bundaberg Region there are people giving freely of their own time and skills to help others,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“They don’t ask for anything in return but we feel they deserve to be celebrated.
“Everyone who is nominated is invited to be part of the awards ceremony to ensure they all receive their well-deserved recognition.
“We’re giving the community some extra time and asking that you please take just five minutes to complete the form and celebrate our local heroes.”
Dale Rethamel was Citizen of the Year in 2022 for his tireless volunteer work, generous support of a range of sporting and community groups and his fundraising efforts.
“I love feeling connected and I love feeling a part of all the sporting groups and the community groups….it’s a great feeling,” he said.
“Bundaberg is just such a great town and and I love helping to try and contribute to keep it that way.”
Dale said he was extremely grateful to have received his award in 2022.
“It was very humbling when I was first notified,” he said.
“To win the Bundaberg Citizen of the Year on Australia Day was a very memorable moment for myself and my family.
“I really encourage anyone out there, if they know someone or a group that really gives back, to take five minutes and complete the survey (to nominate them).”
Read Dale’s story here.
In 2024, the Unity Drummers Incorporated were awarded with Community Group of the Year.
“There is a lot of volunteers in our group, we want to make a difference in our community so we are very proud to have received that award and be recognised for what we do in the community,” president Cynthia Hoogstraten said.
“We don’t do what we do to win an award, we do it because we love it, but to have that recognition is a little extra bonus for our group.”
Read more about the Unity Drummers Inc. award here.
The awards will be held in January 2025 with categories including:
Citizen of the Year Award
This award recognizes an inspirational role model who has consistently demonstrated leadership and involvement in initiatives that contribute to the advancement of the Bundaberg Region.
Young Citizen of the Year Award
Open to nominees aged 25 years or younger on January 26, 2024, this award celebrates outstanding young residents who have shown excellence and leadership in their contributions to the community.
Senior Citizen of the Year Award
Recognising the vital role of seniors aged 65 years or older, this award honours those who continue to contribute to the community through their involvement, commitment, and knowledge sharing.
Community Group of the Year Award
This award acknowledges significant contributions by community groups or non-profile organisations that have enhanced the welfare of people, quality of life, or the arts, sciences, and environment within the Bundaberg Region.
Nominations can now be submitted online up until 6 January 2025.
Find out more here.
