Australia Day Awards

With humility and gentleness, Uncle Glen Miller teaches and leads by example. He exemplifies how each of us can contribute to reconciliation. 

Through his vision and perseverance, the working group he led received the Queensland Premier’s Reconciliation Award and the Community Reconciliation Award for the Butchulla Warriors Memorial in Queens Park.

This memorial is the first in Australia to recognise Aboriginal men who died defending their country during colonisation. It serves not to attach blame or guilt, but to acknowledge history and honour those Aboriginal men who lost their lives. 

For over 14 years, Uncle Glen Miller has been an inspirational role model and leader, imparting knowledge, culture, and wisdom to the community. He has volunteered on numerous boards and participated in working groups across schools, prisons, older men's groups, and government bodies, freely giving his time to benefit others. His selfless contribution to Older Men Unlimited since 2012 is immeasurable. 

Uncle Glen’s spirit of generosity, wisdom, and leadership embodies the highest standard of community service. His quiet yet profound efforts have transformed lives and left an enduring legacy on the Fraser Coast. 

As the founder and Chairman of Fraser Coast Agriculture Show Society NextGen, Matthew has inspired a new generation of under-35s to actively participate in preserving and celebrating rural life, including the launch of FutureGen for under-18s.

His tireless efforts, from coordinating major events like the Fraser Coast Show Ball to representing NextGen at Government House, highlight his passion for community engagement and rural leadership.

Matthew’s commitment extends beyond leadership roles, as he dedicates countless hours to hands-on volunteering, from setting up markets at dawn to stewarding the cattle section at the Fraser Coast Show.

Fraser Coast Films stands out as a transformative force in the region, not only showcasing the Fraser Coast on an international stage but also fostering a growing local film industry that inspires pride and creates lasting cultural and economic benefits for the community.

Through its storytelling, Fraser Coast Films promotes the identity of the region, attracting tourism and encouraging appreciation of its natural beauty.

The movie ‘He Loves Me Not’, was filmed locally, showcasing the region’s stunning landscapes and featuring local residents as extras. The film’s success to date includes screening at multiple Film Festivals and cinemas, elevating the Fraser Coast’s global profile and promoting the region as an attractive destination for future film projects.

The organisation has supported aspiring filmmakers, actors, and crew members through free mentorship and training programs. These initiatives have empowered local talent to develop their skills and gain valuable industry experience without financial barriers, nurturing the next generation of filmmakers in the community.

Trinity’s achievements, including representing Australia in football and winning gold,
have brought pride to the Fraser Coast and highlighted the talent of athletes with disability on the global stage.

She currently plays for Doon Villa Football Club in the 1st Division Ladies team and was honoured with the Tom Dickson Athlete with a Disability Award at the Football Queensland Awards night in 2024.

Looking ahead, Trinity has an exciting year, being selected as one of the School Sports Captains at Maryborough State High School for 2025 and receiving an invitation to speak at an upcoming Maryborough Zonta Club event.

Trinity is a positive role model for her peers and an ambassador for athletes on the Fraser Coast.

Rally for a Cause is a community-led charity proudly raising funds to support local families and individuals impacted by life-limiting medical conditions or whose lives have been significantly disrupted by tragic circumstances beyond their control.

The work of the charity is made possible through its major fundraiser, the Dunga Derby, an annual car rally that sees up to 300 people take part in a four-day adventure travelling from the Coast to Country.

Now in its 10th year, Rally for a Cause has assisted 310 recipients with much-needed equipment and/or financial support in their time of greatest need.

Kathleen Cady, for dedicating over 30 years to providing exceptional foster care, currently nurturing nine children with diverse needs, exemplifying her unwavering commitment to offering stability, love, and advocacy for the most vulnerable members of our community.

Jimmy Hamilton, for founding the Hervey Bay Humpbacks All Abilities Futsal Club and tirelessly volunteering with local rugby league and soccer clubs, fostering inclusion, inspiring players with disability, and building a stronger, more connected community through sport.

Jacinda Kirwan, for her tireless dedication to empowering healthcare workers in Vanuatu through self-funded training initiatives and her exemplary leadership as a clinical nurse in Hervey Bay, making a profound impact on health outcomes both locally and abroad.

Bobbie Walsh, for devoting 26 years to youth and community service as a nurse, educator, and first aid trainer, tirelessly volunteering thousands of hours to empower underprivileged students, improve healthcare access, and promote public health on the Fraser Coast.

Patrick McMahon, for selflessly volunteering over 60 hours monthly at the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre since 2021, tackling challenging tasks with empathy and reliability, and providing unwavering support to both staff and clients.

Josie Raco, for her unwavering advocacy for disability inclusion and leadership in Sustainable Independent Living housing, empowering people with disability to achieve independence and equality while fostering a caring and supportive community.

Jenelle Harrington, for enriching the Fraser Coast community through her tireless work with the Maryborough Progress Association, organising family-friendly events like the Mary Easter Egg Hunt and Mary Movie Nights, while mentoring and supporting new community initiatives.

Michael Oakes, for his exceptional leadership and dedication to fostering community engagement through music, mentoring performers of all abilities, and creating inclusive opportunities for cultural connection and growth as musical director of Cool Country Inc.

John Parsons, for dedicating over 20 years to environmental conservation, leading microbat protection initiatives through Fraser Coast Micro Bats Inc, and engaging the community in sustainable practices that preserve ecosystems and foster environmental awareness.

Nan Ott, for contributing over 40 years of volunteer service to the Fraser Coast, supporting countless community initiatives through her roles in arts councils, historical projects, and advocacy for public safety, education, and RV tourism.

Uncle Glen Miller, for his unwavering leadership in reconciliation, cultural education, and suicide prevention, exemplified through his work with the Butchulla Warriors Memorial, Older Men Unlimited, and mentorship programs that inspire and empower the Fraser Coast community.

Bruce Taylor, for over 50 years of exceptional volunteer service with Lions Clubs, including 43 years in Hervey Bay, where his leadership in initiatives like the Buddy Seat project and eyeglass collection has left a lasting impact on the community and improved countless lives.

Shane Bradbury, for fostering men’s mental health awareness in the Fraser Coast through his leadership of the Man Walk & Talk program, inspiring open communication and connection, while also contributing to community events like the Hundy 100, fundraisers, and youth sports.

Erin Mills, for advocating for inclusion in the Fraser Coast community and the allied health profession through her professional work, volunteering, and mentoring, empowering people with disability to achieve equitable access and workforce participation.

Brydee Kirsopp, for demonstrating leadership and compassion through school and community initiatives, excelling academically, in the arts, and as a mentor to vulnerable community members.

Caitlin Humphries, for inspiring the Fraser Coast community as an accomplished dancer, teacher, and academic, dedicating countless hours to mentoring young performers and achieving outstanding results.

Matthew Hillier is known for empowering young agricultural leaders, fostering community pride through innovative initiatives like NextGen, and dedicating his leadership and volunteer work to advancing the Fraser Coast’s rural traditions.

Caitlin Leishman, for her unwavering advocacy and remarkable contributions to the establishment of Queensland’s Donor Conceived Register, demonstrating extraordinary persistence and inspiring others through her dedication to social justice, community engagement, and creating lasting change.

Fraser Coast Films, for actively promoting the Fraser Coast as a desirable film destination, working closely with local businesses and council to attract productions to the area.

Carol Sendall, for enriching the Fraser Coast through her leadership in music, founding the groups Mansong and Makin’ Whoopee, and using her talents to uplift individuals and enhance cultural vibrancy.

Michael Oakes, for significantly contributing to Hervey Bay’s live music scene by leading Cool Country Inc, mentoring performers, and fostering a vibrant and inclusive cultural community.

Robyn Lowe, for advocating for Fraser Coast arts and culture, inspiring others through decades of volunteer leadership and unwavering support across numerous organisations and events.

Hunter Papavasiliou, for his contributions to the Fraser Coast arts scene as a performer, director, and mentor, fostering creativity and enriching the region’s performing arts community.

Caitlyn Humphries, for her award-winning achievements in dance, dedication to mentoring young performers, and invaluable contributions to the Fraser Coast arts community.

Amarlie-Rose Martens, for excelling in gymnastics and Oztag at state and national levels while inspiring others through volunteer coaching at Wide Bay Gymnastics.

Michael Green, for empowering youth through MMA and resilience classes, community outreach, and fundraising, including the Friendship Challenge and events for Parkinson’s Queensland.

Finn McNamara, for representing Queensland and Australia in football and futsal, while volunteering as a coach and helping out at Doonvilla FC and local primary schools.

Hayleigh Kennedy, for her outstanding achievements as an athlete, bringing home national medals in running and throws, and for her dedication to mentoring and inspiring children of all abilities to pursue their goals in athletics.

Tiaro Chamber of Commerce - Mental Wellbeing Initiative, for creating a vital mental health fund providing free, fast, and confidential assistance to support the wellbeing of 4650 postcode residents.

Bay City Gelball Arena, for introducing the sport of indoor gelball to the Fraser Coast, creating a safe, inclusive space for families and youth while supporting community fundraising.

Shakina Godbee, for representing Wide Bay and Australia in rugby league and Oztag, while volunteering as a coach and helper at her local junior rugby league club.

Ellyn Parker, for achieving top-level success in dressage at state and national competitions while mentoring local riders and volunteering at equestrian events.

Thomas McCarroll, for representing the Fraser Coast and Australia in softball, consistently competing at elite levels and serving the community as an umpire and role model.

Shirley Shilvock, for dedicating her life to Maryborough’s health and wellbeing, providing nursing care, advocating for mental health services, and volunteering selflessly, even into her 90s.

Trinity McPhie, for making history by becoming the first female in Queensland to be selected in the mixed team for the Cerebral Palsy Football Nationals. In 2024, she was selected for the ParaMatildas and scored 2 goals to help win the World Cup in Spain.

Shane Logan, for significantly contributing to Fraser Coast sport as a team member, volunteer media and sponsorship manager for 710 Motorsport, securing funds and national coverage for the team during the 2024 Bathurst 6-hour race.

Fraser Coast Bee Keepers Club, for creating awareness and education about bees, offering free swarm collection services, and engaging the community through events and outreach, safeguarding pollinators and promoting environmental stewardship.

Maryborough Australian Football Club, for fostering inclusivity, cultural connection, and community growth through participation, volunteerism, and player development. This is highlighted by their Reserves’ premiership win and senior women’s program.

Rally for a Cause, for raising over $4 million to support families in crisis, exemplifying community spirit through the Dunga Derby and fostering connections with programs like Angel Families.

Maryborough Garden Club, for volunteering their time to enrich community life with diverse activities, workshops, and partnerships that foster inclusion, creativity, and engagement.

Fraser Coast First Aid, for ensuring event safety, supporting vulnerable populations, and providing skilled emergency care while volunteering services to non-profits and fostering community confidence.

Maryborough MUSOS, for bringing music to life on the Fraser Coast through inclusive performances, community events, and retreats, fostering mental well-being and social connection for all.

Wide Bay Rodders, for fuelling community spirit and economic growth through their iconic May in the Wide Bay event, which raises substantial funds for local charities and fosters regional connections.

The Food Basket, for supporting thousands with affordable food, emergency relief, and volunteer opportunities while partnering with schools and organisations to nurture the Fraser Coast community.