Australia Day Awards
The Australia Day Awards celebrate the achievements of individuals who inspire us through their accomplishments in service to our community, culture and sports, and challenge us to make our own contribution to a better Australia.
View previous Australia Day Awards winners
2019 Australia Day Awards
The 2019 Australia Day Awards recognise Townsville's unsung heroes. The awards pay tribute to the special people in our community who have gone above and beyond to help improve the lives of others and contribute to a diverse, friendly and strong community.
This special person could be your neighbour, a friend or someone you have come across through your local school, church or sporting group. Whoever comes to mind, they are someone who works selflessly to help improve your life and the lives of others.
The efforts of these quiet achievers can often go unnoticed in our busy lives. The Australia Day Awards are about taking the time to ensure these remarkable individuals are honoured and receive the recognition they deserve.
The 2019 Australia Day Award Winners
Citizen of the Year
This award recognises a person that has made an outstanding contribution to the community or has been an inspirational role model for the community.
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.
Young Citizen of the Year
This award is presented to persons under the age of 25 years, who have made a noteworthy contribution during 2018 and/or given outstanding service to the local community.
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.
Arts and Culture Award
The Arts and Culture Award recognises those who have made a noteworthy contribution to the arts and cultural life of the community or an outstanding achievement in an arts and cultural activity. This can include, but not limited to individuals, organisations, events and exhibitions.
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.
Community Volunteer Award
This award is presented to individuals or groups who have made an outstanding effort in volunteering in our community.
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.
Senior Sports Award
This award is presented to individuals or teams who have made a noteworthy record of achievement in sport within the community.
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.
Junior Sports Award
This award is open to individuals under the age of 18 or teams who made a noteworthy record of achievement in sport.
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.
Environmental Excellence and Sustainability Award
This award recognises outstanding environmental leaders, ambassadors - whether individuals or organisations - that have exemplified inspiration, vision, innovation, leadership and action for the environment and sustainability in Townsville.
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.
