Australia Day, Our Whitsunday Way
Whitsunday Regional Council has honoured the region’s community champions with a special Australia Day Awards ceremony held at Bowen’s Flagstaff Hill today.
Original plans for an awards ceremony, citizenship ceremony and family fun day were cancelled due to the potential threat posed by Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.
This is the second year the Australia Day awards were staged as one inclusive and united community celebration after a decision to consolidate the separate events was made in 2022.
The venue for the Whitsunday Australia Day Award ceremony will rotate across the region each year while the community organised traditional ceremony and breakfast at Collinsville will still take place.
Whitsunday Regional Council would like to congratulate everyone who has been recognised at today’s ceremony.
The regional awards are a tribute to our unsung heroes who have made positive contributions to the lives of others, to the broader community and who make our region a better place to live.
The full list of the Whitsunday Region Australia Day Award Winners 2024 are as follows:
Whitsunday Regional Council Awards
Citizen of the Year Award – Christine Hinschen
Christine Hinschen, our Citizen of the Year, is a beacon of community spirit. For over two decades, she's managed and owned the Anglican Opportunity Shop, a hub for charitable efforts. Her extensive volunteer roles include leading committees, supporting disaster relief efforts, and providing essential items to those in need locally and abroad.
A true humanitarian, Christine's generosity knows no bounds. From organizing clothing shipments to those in need in Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and local institutions like Lifeline Gold Coast and the Women's Refuge centre, to providing financial support and materials for community projects and assistance in local disaster efforts, Christine's compassion is felt far and wide.
Christine's generosity doesn't stop at financial aid; she actively participates in community activities, ensuring transparency in passing on donations to local charities. Her impact on the Whitsunday community is immeasurable, making her a true inspiration and well-deserving of the Citizen of the Year award.
Young Citizen of the Year – Sam Rogers
Meet Sam Rogers, our remarkable Young Citizen of the Year, a dynamic force of positive change. As the Whitsunday representative in the Queensland Youth Parliament, Sam is an environmentalist pioneer, presenting the world's first electronic waste sorting robotic arm that he invented.
Not only does Sam excel academically, but he's also an international STEM leader. Winning national awards and presenting at global conferences, Sam's contributions to the field are groundbreaking. His achievements include winning the National Science and Engineering Awards and ranking in international competitions.
Despite his numerous accomplishments, Sam remains humble, using his talents to support others. As School Captain, he demonstrates leadership qualities well beyond his years, leaving an indelible mark on Proserpine State High School. Sam's commitment to making a positive impact and his genuine nature make him a truly inspirational Young Citizen of the Year.
Mayoral Award – Danzel Lewis
Recipient of the Mayoral Award, Danzel Lewis, is an inspirational young adult making a significant impact on the Whitsunday community.
Danzel's involvement in both school and community activities is extensive, earning him the school community service award for five consecutive years. A strong advocate for First Nations education, Danzel's achievements include becoming the first Indigenous student to complete a certificate III in Business with The Hillery Group, inspiring fellow First Nations students to pursue leadership roles.
In 2023, he courageously addressed the school on the mental health impacts of bullying and domestic violence, leading to positive changes in students' attitudes and reporting behaviour.
Danzel's dedication to community service was recognized with a Student Citizenship Award through the Order of Australia Branch, an honour bestowed upon only twelve Year 12 students across Queensland each year.
Volunteer of the Year – Sheryl Gordon
Meet Sheryl Gordon, our dedicated Volunteer of the Year, whose commitment to community service is truly exceptional. Serving as the Vice President of the Collinsville QCWA, Sheryl has demonstrated unwavering support for several community organizations.
An active and selfless volunteer, Sheryl goes above and beyond, generously donating her time and culinary skills to various not-for-profit organizations. Her involvement in local fundraising events is marked by her dedication, often preparing delicious treats to contribute to the success of these initiatives.
Remarkably, Sheryl manages all of these volunteer efforts while maintaining a busy local business and overseeing her family's cattle property. Despite her hectic schedule, she always finds time to contribute to local charities and events, showcasing her genuine enjoyment of community involvement. Sheryl Gordon stands as a true pillar of support and dedication in her local community.
Community Event of the Year – Baby Welcoming Ceremony
Celebrate the heartwarming tradition that is the Baby Welcoming Ceremony, hosted by the Bowen Lions Ladies and awarded Community Event of the Year. For two decades, this event has welcomed over 500 babies into the community, offering a special occasion for parents to be officially congratulated by the Mayor.
Originating from the necessity for parents to travel out of town for childbirth, the ceremony has evolved into a cherished tradition. The generosity of the Bowen Lions Ladies shines through as they coordinate the event at no cost to parents, with donated trees enhancing the commemorative aspect.
The Baby Welcoming Ceremony is a testament to the enduring spirit and dedication of the Bowen Lions Ladies in creating joyous memories for generations to come.
Senior Sportsperson Award – Aimee Sulzberger
Meet Aimee Sulzberger, the deserving recipient of the Senior Sportsperson Award, a powerhouse in the athletic realm. Recently honored as the Athletics North Queensland 2023 Recreational Runner of the Year in Townsville, Aimee's achievements in 2023 alone are nothing short of remarkable.
Aimee's gold-winning streak is exceptional – from the Townsville marathon to dominating the Airlie Beach 10.5km event and the Whitsunday Trial Festival. Her prowess continued with gold in the North QLD Cross Country and the 6km Cross Country, achieved just half an hour after the 10.5km event. Beyond local competitions, Aimee ran on Whitehaven and tackled the Hamilton Island Hilly Half. Looking ahead, she gears up for the formidable Kosci 100, a 106 km race around Mount Kosciuszko, showcasing her endurance and dedication in competitive running.
What makes Aimee's accomplishments even more astounding is that she is a mother of three, pushing a pram with two inside and one on the front wheel. Aimee Sulzberger is undeniably a force to be reckoned with, exemplifying resilience, dedication, and a passion for excellence in sports.
Junior Sportsperson Award – Lillian Kelly
Meet Lillian Kelly, the impressive Junior Sportsperson Award recipient from Proserpine State High School. Selected for the 2023 Australian Club U16 national volleyball team, Lillian competed at the U16 Asian Championships in Hangzhou, China, showcasing her talent on the international stage.
Her journey began at the School Sport Australia Championships in Canberra, followed by a pre-tournament camp at the Australian Institute of Sport. Identified through various competitions and camps, Lillian's inclusion in the Australian team is a testament to her dedication and skill.
Praised by PSHS teachers for her work ethic and academic excellence, Lillian not only excels in sports but also maintains high standards academically. Her upcoming participation in the Queensland beach volleyball side at the national championships in Coolangatta in 2024 further highlights her multifaceted talent and dedication to success. Lillian Kelly is a rising star, embodying excellence both on and off the field.
Environmental Achievement Award
The Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC) is the proud recipient of the Environmental Achievement Award for their outstanding contributions since their inception in May 2020. Operated mainly by volunteers, the Whitsunday Conservation Council boasts a supporter base of over 1500 individuals, including several environmental groups from Whitsunday and Mackay featured on their "We Care" website platform.
Noteworthy achievements include the "Go Slow for Those Below" program, addressing concerns for turtle and dugong protection in high marine traffic areas.
Central to their mission is community engagement, evident through initiatives like free guided nature walks, monthly green drinks with guest speakers, educational market and school stalls, and collaborative community artwork displayed at the 2023 Reef Festival street parade.
Their focus on education, information, and community involvement showcases their dedication to protecting and caring for the local environment, addressing the challenges faced by the region.
Arts & Cultural Award – Gleezus: Teen Rock Band
Winners of the Arts & Cultural Award, Gleezus: Teen Rock Band, has taken the music scene by storm in Bowen. Comprising Kameron, Brock, Jack, and Ashton from Bowen State High School and St Catherine's College, the band has rapidly gained fame locally, regionally, and statewide with strong support from the Whitsunday community.
From their origins rocking out in the school music room, Gleezus has become a sought-after act, winning accolades like the Foothills Youth Music Competition at the Townsville Folk Festival and Young Whitsunday's Got Talent. They've even graced the stage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music under 18 stage.
Their 2023 community performances were diverse and included appearances at Bowen SHS's School Musical: Grease, Collinsville Workers Club, Collinsville Bacon Busters event, Queens Beach Hotel after the Don River Dash, Rockfest All Schools Music Competition, and T8T Festival Bowen. Notably, Kameron was nominated for a future vocals award at the Rockfest All Schools Competition.
Gleezus, a hardworking and humble group, loves to share their passion for music with audiences of all ages. Their commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of the Whitsundays is both evident and commendable.
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Collinsville Awards
Young Sports Award: Cooper Groocock
Cooper is an outstanding young man and sports person which he has demonstrated and has been recognized for throughout 2023.
Cooper has an impressive list sporting achievements including broken records within School Sports and Swimming Club, while also excelling in Sprinting, squash, tennis & touch Football.
He was also selected by the student body to be the 2023 Boomerang Sports House Senior Captain. Now As well as the sporting awards, Cooper was also awarded the 2023 Yr. 11 Dux award.
Along with his community mindedness with fund raising and supporting and encouraging young people in sporting activities, makes Cooper a worthy recipient of the Young Sports Person for 2024.
Senior Sports Award: Almeroe de Nysschen.
Over the past four years Al has volunteered his time to coordinate the Collinsville Touch Football competition as president of the Club.
He willingly takes on the responsibility of organising memberships, weekly draws, sponsorships, referees, managing the mowing and maintenance of the fields as well as organising the end of season presentations. The past couple of seasons Al has worked with local businesses to coordinate sponsorship for the clubs shirts.
2023 also saw the start of the Young Guns Competition for juniors. A great competition which was hugely successful & much needed for our young locals.
Environmental Achievement Award: Collinsville Youth Coaltion - National Tree Day
On the 30th of July this last year, CYC (Collinsville youth Coalition) took part in National Tree Day. With thanks to WRC, they planted over 50 sustainable and suitable trees.
There was a morning of planting trees followed by lunch afterwards at the CYC Centre. Over 50 CYC Kids & Community members attended on the day & helped with the planting.
CYC is looking forward to being involved in this year’s National Tree Day
Collinsville/Scottville Volunteer of the Year Award: Raymond Wallace
Ray is an inaugural member of the Collinsville Scottville and District Historical Society. He has held the position of President and Treasurer within the Society.
He makes himself available for visitors to explore the Scottville old Number One Coal Mine site of Bowen Consolidated Coal Mine (BCCM ). These buildings have an enormous wealth of history to be told and Raymond, having worked there as a young training surveyor, knows its history better than most. His help in preserving history here is most valuable.
Ray is also a member of the Collinsville Scottville Bow Hunters and has given generous support to this Club. Often driving the distance to prepare the grounds for a competition or just to give a plant a drink for survival. No job is out of the question for Ray.
His contributions to both organizations over many years richly deserves this recognition within our community.
Community Event of the Year: QCWA Collinsville Branch – “Do it for Dolly” Day
Do It for Dolly Day is a day dedicated to bringing the community together, spreading kindness and uniting in helping break the silence around bullying. To Help raise awareness & help to create a kinder and safer world for Australia’s kids and communities, as well as participate in fundraising activities to help support important anti-bullying awareness.
QCWA, held a morning tea here at the Civic Centre. Raffles were conducted to raise Funds, and donated to “Dolly’s Dream”, to help enable the development of vital bullying prevention and online safety programs that can be provided to kids, families, schools, and communities.
This year Approximately 150 community members & invited guests attended this event, and raising over $3500 on the day.
This event was Well attended & appreciated by the community. It Created a sense of Community Connectedness, as well as raising awareness for this very important cause.
Arts & Cultural Event of the Year: Scottville State School – “NAIDOC week” Event
On the 18th of July, 2023 NAIDOC week was celebrated at the Scottville State School.
Scottville State School students and staff, especially Mrs Shavarn Stanway and Mrs Lynette Drinkwater spent many late hours making sure the day was a success.
Local schools, Playgroups and Kindys, community members, parents and friends came together to be a part of this special day.
Activities included crafts, games, native food, face painting, story time, animal visits, a yarning circle and local first nations elders.
Young Citizen of the Year: Sarah Wilson
Sarah has played an instrumental role in supporting the Collinsville community and serving to make it a better place over a number of years.
Sarah impresses with her sense of responsibility and drive to succeed. This is particularly seen in the dedication and commitment she demonstrates in supporting young people in the community. These are incredibly admirable qualities not often seen in others much older than herself.
Together with her mother Bianca, Sarah is Collinsville Dance. Sarah has been the dance teacher for a number of years, delivering lessons on most weekdays. She has done this while being a full-time student and completing Year 12 at Collinsville SHS. The dance school's recent sell-out concert is testament to the high esteem which the community attributes to the school and the love and care Sarah brings to each of her charges is heart-warming.
Sarah also attained a Certificate Ill in Early Childhood Education and Care during her last two years of school. She has secured a full-time position with the childcare centre in 2024. Additionally, Sarah has been kept busy caring for youngsters before and after school, providing a service unavailable to working parents in the community.
Sarah also held the role of Vice-President of the Collinsville State High School's Student Council for 2023.
Citizen of the Year: Kimberley Oliver
Kimmy Oliver is a single mother who lives here in Collinsville who has always got her hand up to help anyone in need.
Kimmy became a Collinsville Lions Member 5 years ago and after only being a member for 1 year accepted the nomination to become President of the Lions club making her one of the youngest Presidents in Queensland.
Collinsville lions club is very active in the town and Kimmy has attended everyone whether it is cooking on the BBQ or selling raffle tickets or just putting a smile on the face of the public.
With Kimmy leading the Collinsville Lions the club has gone from strength to strength the club is better for having Kimmy Oliver leading it.
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The Australian Citizenship Ceremony will be held at Flagstaff Hill in Bowen from 10:30am on Tuesday 13th February.