Gunnedah Shire is celebrating its outstanding volunteers and achievers.
The 2026 Australia Day Awards presentation was held under the gums at Anzac Park on Monday and the winners received their awards from the Shire's Ambassador Anthony Snape.
Anthony is an internationally recognised artist and award-winning songwriter born and raised in Gunnedah. His career spans Australia, Europe, and the United States and he has performed on major world stages alongside artists including former Gunnedah musician and Grammy Award winner Tommy Emmanuel.
Michael Broekman is the Shire's Citizen of the Year (21 and over) and Steven Hopwood was named Young Citizen of the Year (20 and under) for the second time.
Lachlan Finnerty is Sports Person of the Year and the Multicultural Women's Association won the Community and Cultural Achievement Award for the second consecutive year.
Gunnedah Shire Council's Australia Day Working Group Chair Cr Rob Hooke said the awards were well-deserved and highlighted the significant contributions of community members.
"Our Citizen of the Year, Michael Broekman, is a foundational member of both our business community and our wider community, providing long-term employment through the generational family operation of Namoi Valley Bricks, strong leadership through significant industry challenges, and support for local organisations through sponsorship, service and volunteering," Cr Hooke said.
"A well-regarded mentor, Michael is always willing to share his knowledge and experience, enhancing our Shire and creating a lasting legacy.
"Our Young Citizen of the Year, Steven Hopwood, is an excellent role model, both serving and supporting our community as a Youth Ambassador for Meals on Wheels, volunteering for Gunnedah Junior Rugby League and acting as a Group 4 referee.
"Steven is also a gifted and passionate performer and has received numerous awards in arts and music. His leadership skills, enthusiasm and willingness to get involved in the Shire make him an inspiring role model and valuable member of the Gunnedah community."
Cr Hooke said Sports Person of the Year Lachlan Finnerty was excelling in tennis, recently representing the region in the state Champion of Champions competition, and attending a prestigious national training camp in Melbourne.
"The Multicultural Women's Association (MWA) is another worthy winner, claiming the Community and Cultural Achievement Award once again for promoting cultural diversity, building community connection and supporting inclusive integration," he said.
"A huge congratulations to all our 2026 award winners, and award nominees."
Council's Australia Day Awards are presented by the Australia Day Working Group and are assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
Caption: Gunnedah Shire's 2026 Australia Day Awards winners and nominees.
