Community members are being urged to take the time 'to say thanks' this year and acknowledge our Region's local legends and outstanding achievers across sport, culture and community.
Rockhampton Regional Council has opened nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards and with eight award categories, there are plenty of opportunities to recognise an unsung hero or high achiever.
Rockhampton Regional Council Deputy Mayor Drew Wickerson said the Rockhampton region is rich with sporting, community and cultural successes and is calling on residents to consider those within their own circles that deserve recognition.
"We know there are hundreds, if not thousands, of smaller communities that create the vibrant tapestry of our great region – sporting clubs, cultural groups, charities, non-profits, and more," Cr Wickerson said.
"We need nominations from each of those communities to reveal the incredible people powering our region."
"From standout performers to behind-the-scenes heroes—Rockhampton's strength is its people."
"Who have you come across this year who has achieved great things in sport, the arts or cultural pursuits, or who is the person your club or non-profit could not do without?"
Councillor Cherie Rutherford said the process to nominate is easy, with nominations open until Sunday 14 December 2025.
"Please take the time to nominate the local legend in your community life, or a remarkable sporting or cultural achiever, so we can recognise them in our Australia Day celebrations in 2026," Cr Rutherford said.
"We ask you to let the person know you are nominating them prior to submitting your form and remind the community we can only accept nominees who have contributed via unpaid, voluntary service."
The 2025 Citizen of the Year Christine Dobele was recognised for her decades of selfless service across numerous community organisations, including U3A, the Queensland Cancer Council, the Rockhampton Agricultural Show, the Pilbeam Theatre and many more.
"It was an honour to be recognised and attend the Awards," Mrs Dobele said.
"I chose to volunteer because it's the best job in the world. We are always appreciated. And we meet some wonderful people."
For someone who was proud to be recognised, Christine's ultimate message is for the benefit of others.
"It is wonderful to be recognised, but the awards are also important because they put a spotlight on volunteering," Mrs Dobele said.
"Nobody volunteers for the accolades, but when you do get recognition for that, it is nice.
"Just look around every organisation that you are involved with and see those people who turn up every day, do the job and go home again and don't expect a pat on the back.
Nominations close on Sunday 14 December 2025 with nominations considered across the following categories:
- Citizen of the Year
- Young Citizen of the Year
- Community Service Award
- Arts and Culture Award
- Sportsperson of the Year
- Junior Sportsperson of the Year
- Sports Official of the Year
- Community Initiative/Event.
For selection criteria, conditions of entry and nomination forms visit https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/CommunityEvents/Australia-Day-Awards
