Bland Shire announces 2026 Australia Day Award winners
Bland Shire Council has announced the recipients of the 2026 Bland Shire Australia Day Awards at the Bland Shire Australia Day Celebrations held on Monday 26 January at Barnado Park, West Wyalong.
The announcement followed a successful Mayoral Reception held on Sunday 25 January at Wyalong Hall, where nominees and their families were formally acknowledged and thanked for their outstanding contributions to the community.
Australia Day celebrations at Barnado Park brought together residents and visitors for a morning of reflection and celebration, including a beautiful free community breakfast generously provided by the West Wyalong Lions Club.
The ceremony opened with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Marlene Collins, acknowledging the Traditional Custodians and paying respect to Elders past and present. Council was also honoured to welcome Bland Shire Australia Day Ambassador Brooke Watts, who spoke about community connection, resilience and the importance of recognising local achievements.
Two new Australian citizens, Sylvia Geerin and Louise Jacobsen, were officially welcomed to Australia during the ceremony.
Mayor Brian Monaghan congratulated all nominees and award recipients.
"The Australia Day Awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on the people and groups who quietly and consistently make a difference in our towns and villages," Mayor Monaghan said.
"The 2026 recipients represent the very best of the Bland Shire, generosity, leadership, service, creativity and community pride. Council thanks every nominee and volunteer for the time and effort they give to strengthen our community."
2026 Bland Shire Australia Day Award Recipients
Community Event of the Year - Hearts of Gold Festival
The West Wyalong Hearts of Gold Festival 2025 was a standout celebration of community, creativity and local pride. Entirely volunteer run, the festival featured live performances, displays, a colour run, street markets and amusement rides, engaging schools, community groups and businesses across the Bland Shire. With more than 100 volunteers contributing countless hours, the festival offered an inclusive program with something for everyone, while supporting local suppliers and attracting visitors from across the Riverina and beyond. The festival also provided a platform for community organisations, health services and emergency services to connect with the public, leaving a lasting positive impact.
Arts and Culture Award - Cassandra Geddes
Cassandra has dedicated more than 20 years to enriching the cultural life of West Wyalong through extensive volunteer work. She has played a central role in the Catholic Debutante Ball, the West Wyalong Dramatic Society and the Tivoli Theatre, contributing as a performer, director, choreographer and organiser. Her efforts have brought entertainment, inspiration and vital fundraising to the community, with productions including Mama Mia, Chicago and Rocky Horror Picture Show. Cassandra's dedication, leadership and generosity continue to strengthen local culture and inspire others.
Achievement in Sport - West Wyalong High School Stage 3 Aerobics Team
The team achieved outstanding success in 2025, winning gold at the National Aerobics Championships in Hobart. They are recognised not only for their exceptional skill and teamwork, but also for their integrity and sportsmanship. Beyond competition, the team mentors younger athletes, supports school programs and performs at community fundraising events, helping foster a positive and inclusive sporting culture.
Joint Young Sportsperson of the Year - Sophie Leonard & Ryder Pettit
Sophie Leonard Sophie excels across multiple sports including AFL, netball, basketball, athletics, rugby union and rugby league. In 2025 she achieved top scorer and best-on-ground honours in AFL, represented elite development academies and contributed to a silver medal at the National Carnival with the NSW Southern Inland PSSA team. Sophie also volunteers as a referee, boundary umpire and helper at events and mentors younger players, making her a respected role model.
Ryder Pettit Ryder, a Year 9 student at West Wyalong High School, signed a three-year NRL Development Contract with the Sydney Roosters in 2025. He has captained representative rugby league teams and earned MVP honours in basketball. Ryder actively gives back by coaching, refereeing and assisting junior players and was named Junior Club Person of the Year in 2024.
Sportsperson of the Year - Doug McAlister
Doug has devoted more than 50 years to maintaining the McAlister Oval cricket pitch, ensuring a first-class facility for junior and senior cricket. He also coaches, mentors and supports young players, fostering a welcoming environment. His quiet dedication and passion have left a lasting impact on cricket and the wider community.
Young Citizen of the Year - Sophie Maxwell
Sophie organised "Steps with Sophie", a 14km fundraising walk at Mirrool during Silo Kick Day, raising more than $5,000 for the Bravehearts Foundation to support children affected by sexual abuse. Her compassion, leadership and commitment demonstrate a strong sense of social responsibility and community care.
Citizen of the Year - Marilyn Moore
A lifelong Barmedman resident, Marilyn has dedicated decades to supporting local organisations including the Show Society, Swimming Club, Mineral Pool, churches, sporting clubs and schools. As secretary of the Barmedman Development Association and a regular volunteer at the Community Centre, Marilyn is widely regarded as the friendly face of Barmedman. Her generosity, reliability and pride in her town make her a highly deserving recipient.
Bland Shire Council congratulates all award winners and thanks every nominee, volunteer and community member who contributes to making the Bland Shire such a wonderful place to live.
