Townsville’s Australia Day Award Winners

Townsville’s Australia Day Awards winners have been recognised by the community in a ceremony at Jezzine Barracks today.

The Australia Day Awards recognise residents and organisations for their contributions and achievements across seven categories.

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said each winner exemplifies true Townsville spirit and are fantastic representatives for the community.

“It is outstanding that we have such wonderful people working within the city to make Townsville the amazing city it is,” Cr Hill said.

“We had some fantastic nominations this year, and to be recognised with an Australia Day Award is a wonderful way to be recognised for the valuable contributions made to our community.

“This doesn’t just go for our winners – each person nominated should be incredibly proud of their efforts.”

Townsville’s Australia Day Award winners for 2019 are:

JUNIOR SPORTS AWARD: STACY ROCKLIFF

Stacy Rockliff has been a passionate cricket representative for Townsville, competing at school, local, regional, state and national and international levels.

Her dedication to the sport was demonstrated at all turns, including participating in the Interschool male competitions as there was no female competition.

Stacy’s contribution to cricket in Townsville, and now Brisbane, sets an impressive standard for junior athletes to rise to.

SENIOR SPORTS AWARD: LINDA DAVIS

Linda Davis is a local athlete that has competed on a national and international level, bringing home medals for her efforts in Outrigging and White-Water Rafting.

In addition to her commitment to competing, Linda gives back to the sporting community by volunteering her time at several events across Australia.

Linda is a great mentor to other paddle sports women and demonstrates what can be achieved by working hard.

ARTS AND CULTURE AWARD: KYLE PAGE

Kyle Page has been a pioneering force behind local dance organisation DanceNorth as the Artistic Director of the company, elevating its reputation as one of Australia’s leading contemporary dance companies.

As Artistic Director, Kyle has committed to leveraging his position to provide development opportunities in Townsville and advocates for the arts in education and cultural participation.

Kyle is a keen ambassador for Townsville and North Queensland and has taken DanceNorth all over the world while advocating for arts in regional communities.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY AWARD: TANGAROA BLUE FOUNDATION

Tangaroa Blue Foundation is a driving force for sustainability in Townsville, working to clean marine debris from the beaches and waterways and preventing pollution from entering the ocean.

As part of their environmental efforts, Tangaroa Blue Foundation helped coordinate the annual ReefBlitz and works to educate the community on the impact of marine debris.

Townsville residents can enjoy stunning waterways and beaches in the region, Tangaroa Blue has ensured this continues by bringing the community together and cleaning these areas.

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AWARD: ALISON MACLEAN

Alison Maclean joined the Northern Regional SES in 2011 following Cyclone Yasi – since then she has risen through the ranks and assisted in multiple call outs.

A passionate Townsville resident, Alison selflessly gives her time in helping the region prepare for potential disasters and attends the Local Disaster Management Group meetings.

As well as her commitment to SES, Alison volunteers for The Pyjama Foundation and works full time – her dedication and drive assists vulnerable people throughout our community and the state.

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: ETHAN CAVANAGH

Ethan Cavanagh is a Year 5 student who has faced hardship early in his life – despite this, he has a passion for helping those less fortunate than himself.

Ethan began his contributions to the community by donating to the Kmart Christmas Appeal but has gradually increased his donations by holding his own campaigns to provide support to the Ronald McDonald House.

In addition to his passion for helping others, Ethan is an outstanding student and participates in several extracurricular activities such as sports, choir and violin.

Ethan is a wonderful role model for young people and a deserving recipient of this award.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR: LEIGH CALDWELL

Leigh Caldwell is the creator of the community group, Happy Feat Townsville, and works with individuals with disabilities to encourage them to dance and perform on stage.

Having worked with various community groups in the disability sector, Leigh recognised a way to build a support network within Townsville – the Happy Feat family now perform at big events across the country.

Leigh has worked tirelessly from the inception of the group to create a safe and happy environment for members of Happy Feat.

For more information or to see past winners, visit Council's Awards and Recognition website.