Mareeba Shire Australia Day Award Winners for 2025

Twelve residents were recognised this weekend at the Mareeba Shire Australia Day Awards.

“It was a wonderful turn-out on Sunday to celebrate the amazing work that our residents do for our community. The judging panel had a tough decision with all the excellent entries, everyone who was nominated is an inspiration,” said Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin.

2025 Mareeba Shire Australia Day Award winners:  

Citizen of the Year: Cheryl Emmerson Young Citizen of the Year: Steven Young Sportsperson: Alana Mehes Junior Sportsperson: Ally MacLeod Community Service: John Nethery Community Service: Kay Harrold Arts and Cultural Award: Irvinebank School of Arts and Progress Association Junior Arts and Cultural Award: Elenoa Patolo Junior Arts and Cultural Award: Evangeleah McKay Community Organisation: Lions Club of Mareeba Highly commended for Community Service: Ellen Duff Highly commended for Community Service: Mick Dub

Cheryl Emmerson has been named Mareeba Shire Citizen of the Year for her incredible contribution to the Mareeba RSL and volunteer work across many community organisations. The Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Steven Young, as the 2024 school captain of Mareeba State High School, Steven performed remarkably well academically, in sport, leadership roles and volunteer work.

“The winners this year also showed the diversity of our Shire, with residents from Chillagoe, Irvinebank, Mareeba, Mutchilba and Speewah taking home an award,” said Mayor Toppin.

Nine new Australian citizens also completed their final milestone for their migration journey to Australia at the citizenship ceremony.

“Congratulations to all of our nominees this year and thank you for all that you do to support the community,” concluded Mayor Toppin.

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