Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Australia Day Awards. This year, two new award categories were introduced: ‘Community Organisation of the Year’ and ‘Senior Citizen of the Year’.
Captains Flat
The Captains Flat Halloween Dance was awarded Event of the Year for Captains Flat. From the trick-or-treat walk, costume and house decoration competitions, to the disco itself, the event united the community through creativity and imagination. Volunteers and local supporters worked tirelessly to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where families, children, and neighbours all came together to celebrate. By building connections and inspiring creativity, this event brought joy to children and strengthened bonds across the community.
The Captains Flat Community Organisation of the Year was awarded to the Captains Flat Preschool Association. Needing a new safe and inclusive playground to support the physical, social, and emotional development of preschool-aged children, this inspiring group took on a 45-kilometre fundraising walk from Queanbeyan to Captains Flat. With no footpaths, countless hills, and blistered feet, they raised both awareness and crucial funds for the project. Thanks to their hard work and vision, the preschool now boasts an amazing new playground.
Captains Flat’s Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Lincon Flaherty. Lincon is a dependable and hardworking young member of the Captains Flat community who has gained a reputation for his quiet contribution and willingness to help others. Over the past year, he has made an incredible impact through his work with the Captains Flat Community Association, volunteering tirelessly to help set up, run, and pack down events like the monthly markets and community BBQs. Lincon is also an active member of the Men’s Shed, assisting with woodworking projects and maintenance, and encouraging younger residents to get involved, fostering stronger intergenerational connections. In addition, he has supported storm clean-ups, checked on older residents, and assisted locals with everyday tasks, demonstrating initiative, care, and respect well beyond his years.
Shane Radburn was awarded Senior Citizen of the Year for Captains Flat. Shane has been instrumental in the incredible work the Men’s Shed does in Captains Flat, contributing to the town in countless ways. Beyond his leadership, Shane is a true community personality, always ready with a warm welcome for visitors and willing to roll up his sleeves to assist with local events. His dedication and involvement in Captains Flat make a real difference. His invaluable contributions are representative of the heart and spirit of the community.
Citizen of the Year for Captains Flat was awarded to Ellanor Pavlovich. As President of the Captains Flat Community Association, she has delivered tangible improvements, including restoring the heritage hall, installing new community noticeboards, and organising regular town clean-ups that have enhanced local pride and safety. As a representative on the Captains Flat Lead Management Network, she has worked hard to represent the needs of her local community. Her role as Secretary of the Rural Fire Service ensures the brigade is well-organised and able to respond swiftly, while she also supports training for younger members. Ellanor’s coordination of events such as the Folk Music Concert, monthly markets, and Christmas BBQs has brought the community together and reinforced the town’s vibrant spirit.
Braidwood
The restoration of the 1930 Dodge vehicle was awarded Braidwood’s Event of the Year. In early 2023, the Historical Society was gifted the parts of a 1930 Dodge by the National Museum. Using a bequest from John Gellibrand, a dedicated team of volunteers worked tirelessly to rebuild the vehicle from scratch in the old D&S Motors workshop. On the 22nd of November 2025, Gellibrand was unveiled and drove out of the workshop to an enthusiastic crowd. This community project brought people from all walks of life together and Gellibrand now stands as a symbol of the town’s hard work and community spirit.
Braidwood’s Community Organisation of the Year was awarded to the Country Women’s Association (CWA) Braidwood branch. Since its founding in 1925 by seven trailblazing women, this remarkable organisation has been a cornerstone of community support, advocacy, and friendship in Braidwood. The Braidwood CWA has always stepped up to care for and strengthen the local community. Over the decades, their contributions have ranged from organising education grants and community events to promoting skills like sewing and cake decorating. The Braidwood branch continues to be a shining example of service, community spirit, and perseverance.
Georgia Garcia was awarded Young Citizen of the Year for Braidwood. As the principal of Braidwood Dance Studio, Georgia has gone above and beyond to bring hope, creativity, and opportunity to the young people of Braidwood. After stepping into ownership of the studio during challenging times following the 2019 fires and COVID-19 disruptions, she turned things around, rebuilding participation and giving children a creative and social outlet. Not only has she delivered incredible classes and end-of-year shows, but she has also volunteered her time to provide performance opportunities for her students at events such as Australia Day, the Majors Creek Festival, and the Braidwood Show.
Braidwood’s Senior Citizen of the Year was awarded to Margaret Shea. From volunteering at markets, seniors’ events, memorials, and bake sales, to offering her time and heartfelt compassion whenever someone is in need, Margaret has built a legacy of kindness, compassion, and dedication. She recently stepped down as President of the Braidwood Country Women’s Association after three years of dedicated leadership, following her many years of service as Secretary. As the Office Manager at the Braidwood Servicemen's Club, Margaret continuously goes above and beyond, often arranging last-minute catering for wakes and memorials with the utmost care and respect. Whether it’s organising an event for 250 people or staying late to help bar staff clean, her selflessness does not go unnoticed.
Sue Murray was awarded Citizen of the Year for Braidwood. Sue has dedicated over 50 years to improving the wellbeing of the people of Braidwood and the surrounding district, making her a true pillar of the community. From her time as a much-loved teacher and librarian at Braidwood Central School to her unwavering leadership as President of the Braidwood Community Association (BCA), Sue has exemplified generosity, determination, and a tireless commitment to local progress. Over the past year alone, Sue has acted as a vital conduit with Council, advocated for affordable housing, and worked on significant projects such as the Braidwood Heritage Interpretation Plan and the community space now known as ‘The Glasshouse.’ Whether it’s advocating for services for seniors, supporting local organisations, or enriching the community through her leadership, Sue's impact on Braidwood is immeasurable.
Bungendore
Bungendore’s Event of the Year was awarded to the Winter Solstice. Hosted at the Bungendore Bowling and Sports Club, the Winter Solstice offered something for everyone, from delicious local food vendors and live music to the warmth of bonfires and a very special performance by the Prosperous Mountain Lion Dance Group. Families were at the heart of this year's celebration, with the club playground buzzing with activity and partnerships forged with local organisations like Rotary, Lions, Netball, the Scouts, Mellabella, and many more, who not only contributed food but also raised funds for their causes. Thanks to the generous raffle donations from local businesses, the event showcased the strength of our community spirit, with an incredible turnout of 500-600 people.
The Rotary Club of Bungendore was awarded Community Organisation of the Year for Bungendore. For more than two decades, Bungendore Rotary has been a cornerstone of community spirit, tirelessly volunteering thousands of hours annually to uplift and support our region. From fundraising efforts like the Bungendore Monopoly project to running sausage sizzles, managing parking at major events like the Bungendore Show and Rodeo, and delivering driver safety courses for young P-platers, their impact is both broad and deeply meaningful. They’ve supported education, mental health training, and even the simple yet profound acts of mowing community spaces and packing Christmas hampers. Bungendore Rotary doesn’t just serve - they lead by example, embodying generosity, kindness, and service above self.
Jaelyn Whiley was awarded Young Citizen of the Year in Bungendore. She has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Bungendore Netball Club and made significant contributions through sport and to her community. Since joining the club in 2019, Jaelyn has become a cornerstone of its success, coaching junior teams with care and passion, umpiring local and regional competitions with integrity, and mentoring young athletes to build their confidence and skills. Beyond the court, she’s been a driving force behind fundraising efforts and social competitions, fostering a fun and inclusive atmosphere for everyone. Jaelyn’s love for netball and her community shines through in all she does.
Bungendore’s Senior Citizen of the Year was awarded to Karen Toscan. Since moving to Bungendore in 1988, Karen has devoted herself to supporting the community. She joined the Rotary Club of Bungendore in 2020 and was awarded an OAM in 2022 for her extraordinary service to veterans, 22 years of fostering, her long-term support of veterans through welfare and pension advocacy, and her vital role in mental health, bushfire support, and housing assistance through organisations like Angels for the Forgotten and Picking up the Peaces. Karen is also a dedicated volunteer at Rotary events and has contributed to the Bungendore Seniors Festival. Karen’s quiet strength, compassion, and unwavering care make Bungendore a better place for all.
Christine Allard was awarded Citizen of the Year for Bungendore. Over the past 13 years, she has tirelessly volunteered her time, energy, and talents for the betterment of the Bungendore community. Whether it’s donating her intricately crafted cakes for community events, organising Bungendore’s celebrated Monopoly fundraiser, or leading the creation of the Bungendore History Walk with interpretive signage and online resources, Christine gives her all to every initiative she takes on. She is also the driving force behind events like International Women’s Day, the Queanbeyan-Palerang Seniors Festival, and the Cancer Council’s Biggest Afternoon Teas. Christine dedicates countless hours to her community through her leadership in Rotary, serving as President in 2023, and she is always checking in on those who need a little extra kindness, often with a delicious, home-cooked treat in hand.
Queanbeyan
Queanbeyan’s Event of the Year was awarded to Pramathon 2025. Organised by First Steps Pregnancy Support as their first-ever major fundraising project, this inspiring event took place at Queanbeyan Park on Mother’s Day weekend, with over 200 participants walking a specially designed course while proudly pushing and decorating prams. In a heartwarming show of community spirit, the event raised an incredible $36,000 - well beyond the initial $10,000 goal - with support from over 70 local businesses and countless individuals. A highlight of the day included setting an Australian record with 86 prams in a conga line! With the help of groups like the Queanbeyan Hospital Auxiliary, CWA, and Lions, this event brought businesses, volunteers, and families together, uniting the community in an extraordinary way.
The Queanbeyan Senior Citizens Association was award Community Organisation of the Year for Queanbeyan. Since 1996, the Queanbeyan Senior Citizens Association have been dedicated to promoting the wellbeing of senior citizens in Queanbeyan and surrounding districts, this non-profit organisation has grown from just 22 members to an incredible 305, all drawn together by a shared vision of connection, support, and kindness. Through regular meetings, social gatherings, outings to places like Batemans Bay and Cooma, exercise programs, and support groups, they foster belonging, mental alertness, and physical activity for their members. Beyond social connection, their volunteers go above and beyond, providing transport, meal support, companionship, and a network of care for those who are vulnerable or isolated.
Queanbeyan’s Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Rory Pittman. At just 16, Rory has turned a life-changing and deeply personal experience into a mission to save others. After surviving a sudden cardiac arrest thanks to the use of CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED), Rory has raised $5,000 through Streetbeat, ensuring the installation of two public AEDs in Queanbeyan and Jerrabomberra, with plans to secure another for Googong. A student at Karabar High School and a keen sportsman, Rory has used his natural leadership and determination to spread the vital message of CPR training and the importance of AEDs, speaking on radio, television, and in print. He is also working within his school to empower young people with the knowledge of what to do in an emergency, ensuring others have the best chance of surviving a cardiac arrest.
Janice Moore was awarded Senior Citizen of the Year for Queanbeyan. Janice is the driving force behind the Queanbeyan Show, overseeing an impressive 80% increase in pavilion entries over the past year, which has shone a spotlight on the community's talent and reinforced its rich agricultural heritage. Her longstanding dedication to philanthropic efforts and her involvement in local organisations like the Lions Club highlight her tireless commitment to bettering the lives of those around her. Born on Show Day in the 1950s to community-minded parents, Janice has spent her life giving back to Queanbeyan.
Queanbeyan’s Citizen of the Year was awarded to Tanya Joveski. Tanya embodies the very best qualities of a dedicated citizen, inspiring others through her roles as a parent, businesswoman, and fitness leader. For the past 13 years, Tanya has operated a women’s-only gym, welcoming and supporting women of all ages, cultures, and fitness levels. Over the past year, she has gone above and beyond, leading fundraising efforts like the Kids with Cancer ride class, contributing to events such as the Pramathon, and celebrating her members’ journeys through social media and community events. Beyond the gym, Tanya has been deeply involved in the Queanbeyan Soccer community and regularly brings people together for initiatives that foster health, connection, and joy.