What it means to be nominated for an Australia Day Award

Published on 24 November 2022

Australia Day Awards - Cr Wickerson, Mayor Willams & Cr Mathers.jpg

If you know a dedicated individual or group who has gone above and beyond to help improve the lives of others and contribute to the Rocky Region, now is your chance to nominate them for a 2023 Australia Day Award.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the Australia Day Awards is our opportunity to acknowledge the unsung heroes in our community and publicly recognise their hard work and dedication.

“This is your opportunity to thank the individuals and groups in your life who work so tirelessly for our community,” Mayor Williams said.

“Take some time to reflect on someone you know who goes that extra mile and contributes to the community - think about someone who inspires you.

“This is the person or group you should nominate for one of the seven award categories.

“The contributions we recognise could include somebody’s 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.

“Being nominated for an Australia Day Award is a great honour, and I look forward to meeting the 2023 nominees and award recipients.

2022 Sportsperson of the Year Joel Coughlan said winning an Australia Day Award provided great recognition for all the hard work and sacrifices he had put in over many years.

“I was honoured to be nominated in the 2022 Australia Day Awards as it was completely unexpected and really fantastic to be acknowledged,” Mr Coughlan said.

“Our region has a huge array of people from all different backgrounds achieving fantastic results in their fields. 

“We should celebrate our community's successes and lift the region up as a collective. 

“The recognition that these Awards bring forward are well deserved and appreciated by all involved.”

Community member and past award nominator Mr Nick Quigley OAM said he encourages everyone to nominate someone they think has made an effort to better the community. 

“In our community, there are people who not only have full time jobs, a family and outside interests but are voluntary community leaders,” Mr Quigley OAM said. 

“These people volunteer their precious time to ensure others can enjoy theirs.

“As a volunteer, it’s not about your own interest, it’s about how you can truly make a difference and contribute to the wider community. 

“If you have someone in mind that makes a difference, nominate them today.” 

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 by 5pm Sunday, 18 December 2022 via https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/AustraliaDayAwards. Winners will be announced on 26 January 2023 at our Australia Day event.

The 2023 Australia Day Award categories are:

  • Citizen of the Year
  • Young Citizen of the Year
  • Sports Official of the Year
  • Sportsperson of the Year
  • Cultural Award
  • Community Service Award
  • Community Initiative