Leeton Shire Council is proud to announce the nominees for the 2026 Australia Day Awards. These awards acknowledge individuals, teams and organisations whose contributions strengthen our community and reflect the values we celebrate on Australia Day.
Award winners will be announced at the official Australia Day Ceremony on Monday, 26 January 2026.
INDIVIDUAL AWARD NOMINEES
The following have been nominated for Young Citizen, Young Achiever and Young Sportsperson of the Year:
- Lucy Gilmour – Nominated for her exceptional year in athletics and cross country, breaking records and inspiring young athletes through mentoring and volunteering.
- Hudson Stevens – Recognised as an outstanding young leader and multi-sport athlete who represented Riverina in four sports while serving as School Captain.
- Anna Woodlands – Celebrated for her active involvement in the Leeton Youth Council and her leadership in youth events and community representation.
The following have been nominated for Citizen, Lifelong Citizen of the Shire, Achiever and Sportsperson of the Year:
- Julie Axtill – Nominated for nearly 25 years of leadership in education, arts, youth development, sport and her major role in the SunRice Festival.
- Jarred Boyle – Nominated for his constant willingness to help others, stepping up at short notice to support fundraisers, events and community needs.
- Lorraine McKellar – Recognised for more than 50 years of service to numerous Leeton organisations, demonstrating lifelong dedication to community wellbeing.
- Ruby Miller – Celebrated multisport athlete recognised for achievements at state, national and international level, including representing Australia at the Deaflympics.
- Shannon Morriss – Recognised for her tireless volunteer work across Whitton, supporting local schools, facilities, fundraisers and community organisations.
- Brian Munro – Honoured for his long-standing service to Rotary and his leadership in major local initiatives including the Stories of Resilience breakfasts and Deb Ball.
- Jan Munro – Honoured for five decades of leadership and volunteer service across community groups, schools, arts, service clubs and major events.
- Anna Nardi – Acknowledged for her compassion and service through cancer fundraising and community support, even while facing her own health challenges.
- Paul Smith – Celebrated for 15 years of dedicated volunteer rescue service with VRA Rescue NSW and extensive event support in the community.
- Rebecca Van Den Heuvel – Recognised for her extensive contribution to performing arts, supporting musical productions, choirs and youth performers.
- Arabela Whitby – Recognised for her outstanding achievements in equestrian judging at state and national level and her volunteer work supporting the Leeton Show Society and local health services.
- Roly Zappacosta – Nominated for establishing "Lap It Up Leeton," a major charity event raising significant funds and bringing the community together.
GROUP & EVENT NOMINEES
The following have been nominated for Event and Organisation/Group of the Year:
- Leeton High School's Popstars Production – Recognised for a high‑quality musical production showcasing student talent, creativity and confidence.
- Leeton United's Under 14s Mixed Representative Team – Nominated for completing an undefeated season and securing their third consecutive premiership.
- Leeton United Open Women's Team – Celebrated for winning the 2025 2nd Grade Women's premiership, the first women's title in the club's history.
- Leeton Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) – Acknowledged for providing critical 24/7 rescue support, emergency response and community assistance.
- Leeton Parkrun – Recognised for delivering more than 230 weekly events that promote fitness, social connection and community wellbeing, making Parkrun a valued and much‑loved activity for participants of all ages.
"Each nominee represents the best of our community. Their dedication, generosity and community spirit embody what Australia Day is all about," said Mayor of Leeton Shire, Cr George Weston. "We congratulate every nominee and thank them for their contribution to the Leeton Shire."
All nominations were assessed by an independent community judging panel, with sports categories reviewed against set criteria. The judges also reserve the right not to award a category, as awards are only presented when the criteria have been met and the nomination is considered genuinely deserving.
