The success of Cairns athletes and administrators at the recent North Queensland Sportstar Awards has promoted Cairns Mayor Bob Manning to remind residents they should nominate deserving locals for Council's Australia Day Awards.
Cr Manning said it was heartening to see Cairns sportspeople rewarded for their efforts at the NQ Sportstar Awards, which were held in Charters Towers last weekend.
"It just demonstrates the depth of talent we have in Cairns and the good work being done by our coaches, administrators and organisations to foster their development," Cr Manning said.
Among the Cairns winners were triathlete and ultra-runner Rachel Matthews, who was named Masters Sportstar of the Year, Paralympian dual medallist Grant 'Scooter' Patterson was awarded the Athlete with a Disability Sportstar of the Year, and Liam Gilbert (athletics) was the Senior Sportstar of the Year winner.
The Stratford Dolphins under 14 football (soccer) team was runner-up in the Team of the Year category, while young runner Ollie Boltz was nominated for the Junior Sportstar of the Year award.
Nora Pennefather (from the Outrigger Club) was named Alan Ticehurst Memorial Award for Service to NQ Sport runner-up.
Cr Manning said it was important people were recognised for their achievements and service to the community.
"There is no greater honour than to be recognised by your own community, and there is no greater way to say 'thank you' than by nominating someone for an Australia Day Award," Cr Manning said.
"It's important that we, as a community, make the effort to celebrate the individuals who inspire us, who help to build up our community, and who make us a stronger and more vibrant city."
Australia Day Award nominations can be completed online or downloaded and printed via Cairns Regional Council's website. Paper copies are available from Council's customer service centres and Cairns Libraries branches.
Nominators are asked to fill in all relevant sections, provide contactable referees, and include as much information as possible to allow judges to assess the nomination.
Nominations close Friday 17 December.
