A quiet achiever whose lifelong service has made a profound and lasting difference to the Edward River community received its top award on Australia Day. Mari Drennan was named Edward River Council's Citizen of the Year 2026 at a ceremony held at the Deniliquin Town Hall.
Edward River Council Mayor Ashley Hall said Mari's generosity and care for her community made her a worthy recipient of the award.
"Today we are proud to recognise Mari Drennan as our 2026 Citizen of the Year. Mari is a quiet achiever whose lifelong service has made a profound and lasting difference to the Edward River community. Over many decades, Mari has given her time, energy and compassion to support local people and organisations, always without seeking recognition."
The Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Chelsea Weir for sharing her love of sport through coaching and mentoring young people, and encouraging confidence, teamwork and healthy lifestyles.
"Chelsea is not only an outstanding leader in the sporting arena, she has led her school community as High School Captain and gained respect for her professionalism, energy and generosity in sharing her skills with others," said Cr Hall.
Edward River Council's 2026 Australia Day Ambassador was "Ute Muster Queen" Vicki Lowry, General Manager of Play on the Plains. Vicki gave an inspirational Australia Day address, speaking on her life and experiences, and her love for the Edward River region.
Popular local radio identity Angela Parker performed the master of ceremonies duties again this year for the Flag Raising in the Civic Precinct and the Awards Ceremony which followed in the magnificently restored Deniliquin Town Hall.
Sing Australia and the Edward River Concert Band performed the Australian National Anthem and entertained the capacity crowd with "I Still Call Australia Home".
At the Flag Raising at the start of the day, the Mayor made a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, noting that while Australia Day means different things to different people, the community gathering was "a day to celebrate the people who make our region stronger through service, kindness and leadership. These contributions reflect values shared by all Australians: caring for our Country, looking after one another, and strengthening community through shared responsibility."
EDWARD RIVER COUNCIL 2026 AUSTRALIA DAY AWARD
NOMINEES & RECIPIENTS LIST
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
The Citizen of the Year Award is presented to a resident who has made a noteworthy contribution to the betterment of the Edward River region and given outstanding service to the local community in the past 12 months or over a number of years.
Nominees:
- Neil Bull
- John Creenaune
- Mari Drennan
- Pat Fogarty
- Robin McIIwain
- Leesa Muir
- Brenda Norman
- Kate Smith
- Martin Wilmshurst
Award recipient:
Mari Drennan
Mari is a quiet achiever whose lifelong service has made a profound and lasting difference to the Edward River community. Over many decades, Mari has given her time, energy and compassion to support local people and organisations, always without seeking recognition. She is a dedicated volunteer with Meals on Wheels, bringing not just meals but warmth, dignity and companionship to elderly and vulnerable residents, many of whom describe her visits as the highlight of their day.
Mari also volunteers every week at the Deniliquin Golf Club Pro Shop, stepping up during a time of volunteer shortage despite having no prior experience, and quickly becoming a valued and familiar face to members.
As President of the Navorina Nursing Home Auxiliary, she has led successful fundraising efforts that have raised thousands of dollars to improve facilities and comfort for residents, while strengthening community connection through events and activities.
In addition to her decades of service to the Deniliquin community as a teacher and business owner, Mari's past leadership roles include President of Deniliquin Rotary Club and the Deni Chamber of Commerce. Beyond her formal roles, Mari is well known for countless acts of kindness - driving people to medical appointments, collecting locals from early-morning or late-night buses, selling raffle tickets for charities, and helping anyone in need, often people she has never met.
Her generosity, diplomacy and genuine care embody the very best of community spirit, and her contribution continues to strengthen the wellbeing, resilience and heart of the Edward River region.
Mari's humility, empathy, and willingness to step forward when needed make Mari Drennan an exceptional role model and a truly outstanding Citizen of the Year.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
The Young Citizen of the Year Award recognises a young resident aged over 16 years and under 30 who is making a real difference within the Edward River region. The award recognises that this person epitomises the future of our nation.
Nominees:
- Brad Gain
- Jade Selwood
- Chelsea Weir
Award recipient:
Chelsea Weir
Chelsea Weir is an outstanding young leader whose energy, professionalism and generosity have made a significant impact across the Edward River community.
Chelsea coaches more than 85 children each week at Flipstars Gymnastics Club and has also coached junior netball at the Blighty Football Netball Club, sharing her love of sport and encouraging confidence, teamwork and healthy lifestyles. In 2025, she completed her Gold Gymnastics Coaching qualification and Coach Mentor accreditation, supporting and guiding younger coaches.
Chelsea was also selected as Deniliquin High School Captain for 2025, where she has represented her school and community with maturity beyond her years.
Balancing her volunteer commitments with Year 12 studies, Chelsea consistently goes above and beyond for others, making her a positive role model and a deserving Young Citizen of the Year.
SPORTS AWARD
The Sports award is awarded to a resident who has demonstrated an outstanding record of achievement in sport or through their involvement as an administrator, official or coach, or who has made a significant contribution to the growth, development and/or increased participation of their sport within the Edward River region.
Nominees:
- Meagan Lowry
- Leanne Mulham
- Diego Sztejman
Award recipient:
Meagan Lowry
Meagan Lowry is a driving force behind the success and culture of the Blighty Football Netball Club.
Her leadership has strengthened club operations, increased junior participation and fostered an inclusive, supportive environment where players feel valued.
She has contributed countless volunteer hours at the Club as a player, coach and administrator, including roles as Netball Club President, Vice President Netball and junior coach.
Meagan has coached multiple junior teams with outstanding results, including premiership success, while continuing to lead by example on the court.
Her commitment, reliability and passion for community sport have had a lasting impact on Blighty and the wider Edward River region, and make Meagan a deserving recipient of our Sports Award.
JUNIOR SPORTS AWARD
The Junior Sports Award is awarded to a resident aged 25 years or younger on 26 January 2025 who has demonstrated an outstanding record of achievement in sport or through their involvement as an administrator, official or coach, or who has made a significant contribution to the growth, development and/or increased participation of their sport within the Edward River region.
Nominees:
- Hamish Baker
- Chase Bartlett
- Hazel Glowrey
- Isla Ho
- Levi Jakeman
- Connor Wilson
Award recipient:
Connor Wilson
Connor Wilson is an exceptional young athlete whose dedication and achievements in shot put have brought pride to Deniliquin and the Edward River region. Connor holds school records in every age group he has competed in and has represented his school and community at Riverina, State, All Schools and National levels. He broke the NSW All Schools State record with a throw of 18.88 metres and has placed third nationally, with further national competition ahead.
Connor's goals are to attend the Youth Games and Oceania Games in 2026 and then to participate in the Diamond League, Commonwealth Games and Olympic Games.
Beyond his sporting success, Connor gives back to our community by volunteering at Deniliquin Little Athletics, mentoring younger athletes and sharing his skills. His discipline, humility and commitment make Connor a positive role model and a worthy recipient of the Junior Sports Award.
ARTS & CULTURE AWARD
The Arts & Culture Award is awarded to a resident or organisation who has made a noteworthy contribution to the cultural life of the Edward River region or an outstanding achievement in a cultural activity, including creating partnerships to benefit the arts and culture of the community and raising awareness of the value of the arts in our community.
Nominees:
- Megan Hunter
- Deni Play on thePlains Festival Ltd.
- Edward River Art Society
Award recipient:
Edward River Art Society - accepted by Simone Dudley
The Edward River Art Society has helped to transform arts and cultural life in Deniliquin through extraordinary volunteer commitment, creativity and community connection.
Since becoming a tenant of Council's Multi Arts Hall and Sunday School building in Waring Gardens in 2024, the Society has activated these spaces with a vibrant calendar of exhibitions, workshops and partnerships, attracting strong local participation and visitors from across the region.
The Society has tripled its membership to 175, supported by dozens of dedicated volunteers who curate exhibitions, host workshops and foster inclusive creative spaces for all ages.
Signature events such as the Easter Art Show have drawn record attendance and contributed significantly to local tourism and artist income.
The Edward River Art Society continues to strengthen wellbeing, connection and pride through the power of the arts, making them a deserving winner of the Arts & Culture Award.
JUNIOR ARTS & CULTURE AWARD
The Junior Arts & Culture Award recognises a resident aged 25 years or younger who has made a noteworthy contribution to the cultural life of the Edward River region or an outstanding achievement in a cultural activity, including creating partnerships to benefit the arts and culture of the community and raising awareness of the value of the arts in our community.
Nominees:
- Amelia (Jay) Bennett
- Zara Lindeman
Award recipient:
Zara Lindeman
Zara Lindeman has made an outstanding contribution to arts and culture in the Edward River community through her talent, generosity and commitment to sharing music.
From a young age, Zara has volunteered her time to perform at fundraisers and community events, supporting local health services and charities. She has delivered music tuition across the region, mentored emerging performers, collaborated with local ensembles, and facilitated workshops for young people.
Zara's achievements include academic excellence in music, national recognition through the CMAA Academy of Country Music, and performances at major festivals, all while remaining deeply connected to her hometown.
Zara's passion and dedication continue to enrich Deniliquin's creative life and inspire the next generation of artists, making her a truly deserving recipient of our Junior Arts and Culture Award.
COMMUNITY EVENT OR INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR
The Community Event or Initiative of the Year is awarded to a group or organisation who, over the past 12 months, have made a noteworthy contribution to the Edward River region through conducting a successful project, event, activity, or initiative which has brought recognition and credit to the community through a cultural, economic, environmental, or sporting achievement within the Edward River region.
Nominees:
- Deniliquin Truck Show
- Deniliquin Ute Muster
Award Recipient:
Deni Ute Muster 2025
The 2025 Deni Ute Muster delivered an extraordinary outcome for the Edward River region, becoming the first sell-out event in its 27-year history and welcoming more than 22,000 attendees from across Australia and overseas. The event generated significant economic benefits for local businesses, accommodation providers and contractors, while providing fundraising and volunteering opportunities for more than 26 local community groups and charities.
With record participation from families and young people (including 36% as first-time visitors), as well as strong safety and wellbeing partnerships, and extensive national media coverage, the 2025 Muster strengthened Deniliquin's identity as Australia's Ute capital.
Under the leadership of General Manager Vicky Lowry (our Australia Day Ambassador), the Deni Ute Muster has become a family-friendly celebration for all generations, showcasing the power of community, culture and connection, while delivering lasting social, cultural and economic benefits for the entire Edward River region.
The 2025 Deni Ute Muster's scale, energy, and strong community focus made it a defining event for Deniliquin last year, and an outstanding recipient of our Community Event of the Year Award.
COMMUNITY GROUP OF THE YEAR
The Award for Community Group of the Year recognises a group or organisation, consisting predominantly of volunteers, that has shown significant contribution toward developing a more socially cohesive community through community engagement and partnerships.
Nominees:
- Deniliquin Blue Heelers Rugby League Football
- Deniliquin Can Assist
- Deniliquin Film Society
- Deniliquin Playgroup
- Deniliquin Riding for the Disabled
- Deniliquin Rovers Football and Netball Club
- Mini Vinnies
Award Recipient:
Deniliquin Can Assist - accepted by Bianca Armytage
Deniliquin Can Assist is a remarkable volunteer-led organisation providing vital financial and emotional support to local residents facing cancer.
Established in 2017, the group ensures that every dollar raised through community fundraising and donations goes directly to patients, helping with accommodation, travel, medical and pharmaceutical costs, and essential household expenses.
To date, Deniliquin Can Assist has supported 229 patients, providing more than $480,000 in assistance and easing stress during an incredibly challenging time.
Supported by a small but dedicated volunteer committee and the generosity of local clubs, schools and community groups, Deniliquin Can Assist works closely with health professionals and referral partners to ensure no one faces cancer alone. Their work reflects the compassion, generosity and strength of the Edward River community, and makes the group a worthy recipient of this award.
ENVIRONMENTAL CITIZEN OF THE YEAR - BILL & ELWYN HERMISTON MEMORIAL AWARD
The Environmental Citizen of the Year - Bill & Elwyn Hermiston Memorial Award recognises a resident who has made a significant contribution to natural resource management, biodiversity, and environmental conservation within the Edward River Region.
Award recipient:
Michael Pisasale
Michael Pisasale is a highly respected environmental leader whose lifelong commitment has delivered lasting benefits for the Edward River region.
Over more than 25 years, Michael has played a pivotal role in restoring ecosystems, protecting biodiversity and strengthening sustainable water management across the region. His leadership of major initiatives such as the Mid Murray Wetlands and Ephemeral Creek Project has improved environmental water delivery and restored more than 2,000 private wetlands and numerous creeks, while carefully balancing environmental, agricultural and community needs.
On his own property, Michael has transformed underutilised farmland into a thriving wetland, using it as a living classroom for students, landholders and community groups. Widely recognised for his warm and collaborative approach, Michael brings people together across government, environmental and farming sectors to achieve shared goals.
Michael's work not only protects biodiversity today but also educates and empowers the community to maintain a healthy, sustainable landscape.
Michael's positive approach, unwavering commitment to sustainable water management, and his ability to inspire collective action make him an exceptional
Environmental Citizen of the Year, whose legacy will enrich the Edward River region for years to come.
TRANSCRIPT OF EDWARD RIVER COUNCIL MAYOR ASHLEY HALL'S SPEECHES:
Acknowledgement of Country
Good morning everyone, and thank you for joining us for our Australia Day Awards and community celebration.
I begin by acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we gather today, the Wamba Wamba and Perrepa Perrepa people. We meet here at our beautiful Town Hall, between our lagoons and river systems that have long sustained life and connection. I pay my respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people here today.
Australia Day means different things to different people. For some, it is a day of pride; for others, a day of reflection. Here in Edward River, we recognise that complexity and the importance of acknowledging our full history - respectfully and honestly - as we move forward together as a community
Reconciliation and unity are shared responsibilities. They belong to all Australians and are reflected in how we listen, learn, and support one another to build understanding, respect and connection.
Over the past year, challenges such as the Deniliquin High School fire showed the strength of our community, with people from all walks of life coming together to support one another.
Today is a day to celebrate the people who make our region stronger through service, kindness and leadership. These contributions reflect values shared by all Australians: caring for our Country, looking after one another, and strengthening community through shared responsibility.
Thank you for being here, for caring about this place we call home, and for choosing connection as we look ahead to the year to come.
Awards announcement:
As Mayor of Edward River Council it is an honour for me to announce our 2026 Australia Day Award winners and present their certificates and gifts.
Today, on Australia Day, we come together to celebrate what it means to be Australian and to recognise the very best of our nation and our local community. We are lucky to have so many outstanding Australians right here in our own community who truly deserve to be applauded for their contribution to the Edward River region.
This morning, we honour a group of exceptional individuals whose leadership, commitment and service have left a lasting mark on our community.
Some of our award recipients have dedicated many years to supporting others and strengthening our community, while others, even at a young age, are already making a meaningful difference and helping to shape our future.
Each of today's recipients reflects the true spirit of being Australian - whether through personal achievement, volunteering their time, supporting charitable causes, empowering others, or giving generously to make a positive impact.
Every nominee is a powerful example of community spirit and selflessness, and I congratulate them on their remarkable contributions. Their efforts inspire all of us to get involved, support one another, and continue working together to build a stronger future for our community.
To our award winners: thank you for the work you do quietly, consistently, and wholeheartedly. You represent the very best of Edward River.
Happy Australia Day, and congratulations to all our award recipients.
