Australia Day Awards
The awards recognise Townsville’s unsung heroes and 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 community 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.
2026 Australia Day Award Winners
Thank you to all nominees for your commitment to the Townsville community. The winners were announced at the Australia Day celebrations on Monday 26 January 2026.
Nicole McLachlan - Citizen of the Year
Ethan Cavanagh - Young Citizen of the Year
Boori Monty Pryor - Arts & Culture Award
Townsville Hike & Explore - Community Volunteer Award
Amelia Chaplin - Environmental Excellence & Sustainability Award
Ryder Smith - Junior Sports Award
Townsville Hike & Explore representatives, Ryder Smith, Borri Monty Pryor and Ethan Cavanagh
Previous Winners
Recovery Roadshow
Council is taking recovery support on the road, with a series of community events planned across some of our region’s more remote communities. Connected communities recover better - let’s do it together.
Entries are now open for Strand Ephemera 2027
Artists are invited to submit concepts that will form the North’s premier pop-up public art festival. Spark imagination and wonder, with artworks that celebrate Queensland’s unique stories – creating connection and lasting inspiration. Entries close: 10am, Tuesday 3 November 2026.
Community Sentiment Survey
Council’s Community Sentiment Survey is a city-wide survey that gives community members the opportunity to tell Council what is working well, what needs improvement and what matters most to them. The survey closes 30 October 2026.
Capital Works Program
To keep Townsville growing, Council is actively involved in the delivery of projects to provide vital infrastructure and exciting development opportunities.
North Queensland Ceramic Awards
Originally conceived by the North Queensland Potters Association, these awards have continued to flourish through Townsville City Gallery's partnership with the Potters Association. The 2026 biennial North Queensland Ceramic Awards are on display at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery, 19 September 2026 – 17 January 2027.