2025 Fraser Coast Ability Awards winners announced

From a coffee shop reimagined as a training ground for inclusive employment to a ParaMatildas footballer and a local artist whose hand-painted rocks spark connection in our parks – the 2025 Fraser Coast Ability Awards celebrated practical inclusion in action across our community.

Fraser Coast Inclusive Access Advisory Committee Chair Cr John Weiland said the awards celebrate the achievements of people with disability and those who help build a more inclusive, supportive community.

“Our winners and nominees show how inclusion happens - on the job, on the field, in classrooms and at community events. They’re removing barriers, opening doors and creating opportunities so more people can belong and thrive on the Fraser Coast,” Cr Weiland said.

“Thank you to everyone who nominated, supported and took part today. Together, we’re building a community where access and participation are part of everyday life.”

The 2025 Fraser Coast Ability Awards winners

• Hall of Fame: Isabella (Belle) Bellert - talented artist and Funland Sensory founder whose disability-led business builds awareness and community connection.
   
• Ted Weber Individual Achievement: Marcus Renaud - 18 years of steady volunteering at Baycrest Aged Care and inclusive sport involvement, reflecting commitment and community spirit.
   
• Arts & Culture: Lachlan Woods - community-minded artist whose hand-painted rocks and small business turn creativity into local connection.
   
• Sport & Recreation: Trinity McPhie - ParaMatildas footballer and first woman in Queensland selected for the mixed Cerebral Palsy Football Nationals squad, pairing elite performance with local leadership.
  • Highly commended: Bill Fuller, Gorja Ebert
     
• Community Changemaker (Individual): Peter Kalbfell - wheelchair basketball leader and woodworking mentor creating safe, hands-on roles and inclusive pathways.
  • Highly commended: Carolyn Robbers
     
• Outstanding Inclusive Initiative (Organisation): Hashtag All Abilities - week-to-week programs and inclusive sport that grow confidence, skills and teams across the region.
   
• Excellence in Innovation (Organisation): Cloud 129 (Community Lifestyles Agency) - a social-enterprise café co-designed with participants that provides hospitality training and pathways to open employment.

Council congratulates all nominees, supporters and volunteers recognised at today’s ceremony at the Brolga Theatre in Maryborough.

This year’s theme was ‘Sparkle – shine bright in your community’ with attendees encouraged to dress with flair while celebrating diversity and inclusion.