Recognise the unsung heroes in our community by nominating them in Western Downs Regional Council's Australia Day Awards for 2026.
Nominations have now opened, and residents are encouraged to nominate the hard-working individuals and community groups that are making a true impact in our communities.
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said Australia Day Awards give residents an opportunity to say thank you to those making a difference.
"The Western Downs has no shortage of amazing individuals, make sure to recognise those in your community with an Australia Day Awards nomination," Mayor Smith said.
"The Australia Day Awards give us an opportunity to showcase the passionate people that dedicate their time to make our active and vibrant communities such a great place to live, work and play.
"I encourage everyone to take the time to submit a nomination for somebody making a meaningful contribution to your community.
"Every year Council asks the community to recognise the amazing people who have made a significant contribution to the region through our regional Australia Day Awards."
The annual Australia Day Awards acknowledge the achievements of those across six districts, in categories including local volunteering, arts and culture, and sport.
Residents can also nominate for regional award categories including Regional Citizen of the Year and Regional Young Citizen of the Year (aged 30 or younger).
Regional Sportsperson of the Year and the Regional Creative Arts Award are selected from the pool of local nominees from across the Western Downs.
Helen Hubbard, nominator of last year's Young Citizen of the Year winner, said it is important to recognise those going above and beyond for their communities.
Mrs Hubbard nominated Grant Dolbel for the 2025 awards, after teaching Grant throughout High School, she saw him excel in his studies and go above and beyond through his extracurriculars.
Grant even went on to represent his community across the globe in several highly regarded music programs.
"It is always good to say thank you to the people in the community who give so willingly of their time and effort," Mrs Hubbard said.
"I have been teaching for a long time and Grant is up there with some of the best students I have ever taught, he has an amazing musical ability, and he is willing to share that with the community," she said.
The Western Downs 2026 Australia Day Award nomination categories are:
Nominations for Australia Day Awards are now open until 16 November 2025. Winners will be announced at local Australia Day events across the region on Monday 26 January 2026.
Regional Awards
Nominees eligible from across the Western Downs:
- Regional Citizen of the Year
- Regional Young Citizen of the Year (aged 30 years or younger)
Local Awards
To be selected from nominees in each district across Chinchilla, Dalby, Jandowae, Miles, Tara and Wandoan:
- Local Volunteer Award
- Local Creative Arts Award
- Local Community Organisation Achievement Award
- Local Sports Award
Regional Awards
To be selected from the local nominees in each district (above):
- Regional Sportsperson of the Year Award
- Regional Creative Arts Award
Nominations for Australia Day Awards are now open until 16 November 2025. Winners will be announced at local Australia Day events across the region on Monday 26 January 2026.
To nominate, visit https://wdrc.au/ausdayawards
