Community spirit shines through at Australia Day awards night

Dedication, hard work and lending a hand to those in need were common themes at Gladstone Regional Council’s Australia Day awards ceremony last night.

The ceremony, which took place at the Gladstone Entertainment and Convention Centre, celebrated and recognised phenomenal community members who go above and beyond to ensure the Gladstone Region thrives into the future.

Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett commended all nominees for the time they dedicate to the betterment of our region. 

“Year in, year out, amazing people are nominated, and we are so fortunate as a community for the countless, tireless and sometimes thankless hours they put in,” Councillor Burnett said.

“Our awards ceremony is about recognising and thanking the nominees, many of whom are so humble in their achievements.

“Recognising the great work our community members are doing is a fantastic way to kick-off celebrating Australia Day tomorrow.”

The awards ceremony was held in conjunction with the Gladstone Region’s citizenship ceremony.

“Last night we also welcomed the region’s newest Australians who made their citizenship pledge,” Cr Burnett said.

“How great is it that they will have woken up today, on Australia Day, and get to celebrate their first day being an Australian.”

Australia Day award recipients:

Citizen of the Year – Frank McKee

Young Citizen of the Year – Sidney Crawshaw

Arts & Culture Award – Christine Holden

Senior Sportsperson Award – Michael Ludkin

Young Sportsperson Award – Chyanne Downing

Sports Official Award – Kathleen Bell

Community Event or Initiative Award – Boyne Tannum Turtleway Artscape

Community Volunteer Award – Ian Anderson