2012 Australia Day Awards Evening

GLADSTONE REGIONAL COUNCIL

Australia Day 2012

Awards Presentation Evening Gladstone Entertainment Centre 25 January 2012

Program

Index Program ............................................... 4 Seating Plan .......................................... 5 Award Categories ......................... 6 & 7 National Anthem .................................. 7 Citizenship Pledge ................................ 8 Nominees Community Event of the Year ......... 9 Junior Cultural Award ...................... 9 Senior Cultural Award ..................... 9 Young Sports Person of the Year Award ............................ 9 Senior Sports Person of the Year Award .......................... 10 Sports Official of the Year Award .. 10 Young Citizen of the Year Award ... 10 Citizen of the Year Award .............. 10 Profiles Community Event of the Year Welcoming Intercultural Neighbours 2011 Diversity Forum ............................................ 11 Gladstone Gymnastics Club’s 2011 Annual Display ...................... 11 Mount Larcom & District Show Society 2011 Mount Larcom Show ............ 12 Junior Cultural Award Michael Dimitrov ........................... 13 Thomas Hooley ............................. 13 Ayden Roberts ............................... 14 Samuel Thompson ......................... 14

Senior Cultural Award Beth Jones ..................................... 15 Natalia Muszkat ............................. 15

Young Sports Person of the Year Award Eliza Armitage ............................... 16 Ryan Beecroft ................................ 16 Lachlan Cartwright ........................ 17 Talia Galbraith ................................ 17 Skye Henebery .............................. 18 Josh Horkings ................................ 18 Chloe Jess ...................................... 19 Poppy Larson ................................. 19 Hannah Lowry .............................. 20 Keecia Mallie ................................. 20 Senior Sports Person of the Year Award Cian Fothergill ............................. 21 Lewis Marshall ............................. 21 Sports Official of the Year Award Mark Bryant .................................. 22 Owen Harms ................................ 22 Kevin Howard ............................... 23 Julie Maeyke .................................. 23 Anna Turetschek ............................ 24

Young Citizen of the Year Award Talia Galbraith ................................ 25 Skye Henebery .............................. 25 Citizen of the Year Award Mark Bryant .................................. 26 Cecily Burkett ............................... 26 Owen Harms ................................ 27 Sally Heap ...................................... 27 Geoff Lester .................................. 28 John Massey .................................. 28 Greg Realf ..................................... 29 David Roby ................................... 29 Cheryl Wickes ............................... 30

Program Move into Main Auditorium (Wheelchair access via Door 2 Seating Row F) Please see page 5 for Seating Plan

Welcome National Anthem Speeches by Special Guests Citizenship Address Citizenship Ceremony Public Citizenship Affirmation Announcement of Australia Day Award Winners Mayor Address Move to Foyer Cutting of Australia Day Cake by Citizen of the Year Light Supper

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Seating Plan Seating has been reserved as follows: Row C • Mayor, Councillors & Partners • Federal Member for Flynn • State Member for Gladstone [27 seats] Row D • Residents pledging Citizenship • Helena Sant & Guest • John LaFave & Family • Thomas Hooley and Accompanist [28 seats] Row F Wheelchair Access via Door 2 Row E through to U General Public Gladstone Regional Council wishes to thank the Gladstone Branch of Zonta for the Award Ceremony Cake.

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Award Categories 1. Community Event of the Year Award The Community Event of the Year is awarded to the organising body of an outstanding community event that has drawn significant crowds, enhanced social interaction among the community and served to raise the profile of the Gladstone Region as the “Region of Choice�.

2. Junior Cultural Award Awarded to a person aged 18 years or younger as of January 25 who has made a noteworthy contribution to the cultural life of the community or who has outstanding achievements in cultural activity.

3. Senior Cultural Award Awarded to a person over18 years as of January 25 who has made a noteworthy contribution to the cultural life of the community or has outstanding achievements in cultural activity.

4. Young Sports Person of the Year Award Awarded to an individual aged 18 years or younger as of January 25 for an outstanding record of achievement in sport and who has served as a noteworthy ambassador for their sport at a regional, state or international level.

5. Senior Sports Person of the Year Award Awarded to an individual over18 years as of January 25 who has an outstanding record of achievement in sport and who has served as a noteworthy ambassador for their sport and a regional, state or international level.

6. Sports Official of the Year Award Awarded to a person in recognition of their involvement as an administrator, official or coach and who has made a significant contribution to the growth, development or increased participation of their sport within the Gladstone Region.

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Award Categories 7. Young Citizen of the Year Award Is awarded to a person aged 18 years or younger as of January 25 for noteworthy achievements or civic contributions during the current year or given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.

8. Citizen of the Year Award Awarded to a person who has made an outstanding civic contribution during the current year or given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.

National Anthem ADVANCE AUSTRALIA FAIR Australians all let us rejoice, For we are young and free; We’ve golden soil and wealth for toil; Our home is girt by sea; Our land abounds in nature’s gifts Of beauty rich and rare; In history’s page, let every stage Advance Australia Fair.

In joyful strains then let us sing, Advance Australia Fair.

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Citizenship Pledge

As an Australian citizen, I affirm my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect, and whose laws I uphold and obey.

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Nominees Community Event of the Year • Welcoming Intercultural Neighbours 2011 Diversity Forum • Gladstone Gymnastic Club’s 2011 Annual Display • Mount Larcom & District Show Society 2011 Mount Larcom Show Junior Cultural Award • Michael Dimitrov • Thomas Hooley • Ayden Roberts • Samuel Thompson Senior Cultural Award • Beth Jones • Natalia Muszkat Young Sports Person of the Year Award • Eliza Armitage • Ryan Beecroft • Lachlan Cartwright • Talia Galbraith • Skye Henebery • Josh Horkings • Chloe Jess • Poppy Larson • Hannah Lowry • Keecia Mallie

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Nominees Senior Sports Person of the Year Award • Cian Fothergill • Lewis Marshall Sports Official of the Year Award • Mark Bryant • Owen Harms • Kevin Howard • Julie Maeyke • Anna Turetschek Young Citizen of the Year Award • Talia Galbraith • Skye Henebery Citizen of the Year Award • Mark Bryant • Cecily Burkett • Owen Harms • Sally Heap • Geoff Lester • John Massey • Greg Realf • David Roby • Cheryl Wickes

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Community Event Of The Year Award Nominations (3) 2011 Diversity Forum The 2011 Diversity Forum was a highlight of the year for Welcoming Intercultural Neighbours (WIN), which was established in February 2010 to bring issues of diversity to the attention of the Gladstone community. With a cast of local and national personalities, the Forum, themed ‘Benefits and Challenge of Diversity’ provided the region with the opportunity to access high profile and knowledgeable people in the fields of education, employment, integration, culture and religion. An impressive program was developed by the Forum’s working group of volunteers. In addition, WIN volunteers played a key part of the event with more than 15 of its members coming together to educate the community on matters of diversity and its challenges and benefits. The 100 attendees, including a group of high school students, comprised representatives from the education sector, local government, community organisations, service providers, religious organisations, businesses and industry. The event took WIN’s Forum Working Group many months to plan, ensuring the workshops, presentations and guest speakers were of a high quality to ensure goals were achieved. These goals included: Teaching about the region’s growth and helping people understand how to make the most of a diverse workforce; gaining awareness of diversity related issues; developing tolerance in the context of intercultural conflict and grievances; and how to create a safe environment where issues such as prejudice and diversity can be discussed. The Forum’s success also helped to raise the profile of the not-for-profit WIN, which has achieved a great deal since its establishment in the region.

2011 Annual Display The Gladstone Gymnastics Club’s Annual Display showcases the hard work and skills of gymnasts while allowing the community to sit back, relax and enjoy a spectacular show.

The 2011 display, ‘Movie Mania’, featured 225 gymnasts from the competitive and general gym programs who performed to songs from their favourite movies. The display showcased the gymnasts’ hard work, dedication and skills and gave them the opportunity to perform for their coaches, friends, families, local sponsor businesses and the wider community. A number of competitive gymnasts also performed individual routines, to honour their remarkable performances at the State and National Championships and the Border Challenge. These routines included three Women’s Artistic State medallists, three Men’s Artistic State medallists, an Acrobatic Women’s pair that won State Championships and competed at Nationals, one Border Challenge competitor and one Women’s Artistic Gymnastics National Qualifier. The display also featured a routine by two of the club’s Level 10 Women’s Artistic Gymnasts (WAG), who achieved the highest level of competitive gymnastics this year and will compete in their last WAG competition in Hawaii in early 2012. The event provides all gymnasts at the club a chance to shine in front of a crowd Australia Day 2012 Awards Presentation Evening

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of more than 500. The club was also presented with the Club of the Year 2011 title by Gymnastics Queensland and several members received the highest honour from the state body as well for their roles in promoting and facilitating gymnastics. As a result, ‘Movie Mania’ highlights how a not-for-profit organisation can succeed through the dedication of members and supporters.

2011 Mount Larcom Show The Mount Larcom Show is a major annual event in our region that is conducted in June each year. Known as ‘The Friendly Show’ for its country hospitality, this event is organised by a voluntary committee with assistance from generous individuals and sponsors and attracts thousands of people through its gates annually. The show provides two days of quality family entertainment through the various sections of competition, and an extensive range of events and attractions. It is a true traditional agricultural show with ring events, chainsaw races, farm animals, old machinery, beef cattle, showjumping and more, but it has modern touches to ensure it meets the expectations of the diverse interests of today’s show-goers. Central to its operation is a mission statement that reads: “We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a truly unique country experience; to step out of the rat race of life for time; to enjoy the ambience and diversity of country; to feel a sense of pride around our heritage, our history, our country traditions; and to do this in an interactive, fun and affordable way …”. The show is regarded in show circles as one of the biggest and best in Queensland. Its extensive offerings in 2011 ensured the committee met its objectives and raised funds to conduct the 2012 show, plus put money back into the grounds for the benefit of the many community groups which use them each year.

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Junior Cultural Award Nominations (4) Michael Dimitrov Michael Dimitrov has a passion for music and uses his talents to positively promote the Gladstone Region. He has been involved in some of the biggest cultural events and activities in the region and demonstrates a strong level of leadership and commitment representing Gladstone. With the goal of becoming a music teacher, Michael has exhibited a dedicated and mature approach towards extending his musical ability. He recently participated in the Young Conservatoriums’ State Honours Ensemble Program where he played as part of a large orchestra and gained the practical experience needed for teaching pursuits. Michael is proficient in saxophone, piano, flute, clarinet and violin. He has been a prominent and respected competitor at Gladstone and Rockhampton Eisteddfods for the past nine years and five years respectively. Michael has consistently received encouragement awards, highest mark awards and bursaries for performances on various instruments. He proudly accepted the 2011 Gladstone Eisteddfod Bursary for Outstanding Local Performer. Michael has also played a significant part in his school’s music program, representing the Rockhampton Region in the US. For the past two years, Michael has developed a mentoring role, conducting 20 students in his school’s stage band. He works with this band weekly to develop their skills and encourages music appreciation and enjoyment. While completing senior school studies, Michael also taught music privately to several students helping to develop their technical skills. Enhancing Michael’s vast musical achievements is his determination and effort to make a difference through extensive volunteer work and service within the community.

Thomas Hooley At 18 years of age, Thomas Hooley’s voice and passion for musical theatre has proved a rich reward for the Gladstone community. Thomas has participated in numerous school and community musical productions, including “Les Miserables” and has entertained at various public performances throughout the region. In 2011 other credits included the lead role of Ugly in the Gladstone combined high schools production of “Honk”, and Aladdin in Gladstone State High’s musical production “Aladdin Jr”. Thomas’ singing talents have been heard competitively at the Gladstone Eisteddfod, Harbour Festival and in state competitions such as Storm the Stage. When at school his mature outlook provided him with the perfect foundation to successfully juggle studying, learning guitar, singing and performing while remaining confident, courteous and thoughtful - traits he is now passing on to younger protégés. Thomas demonstrated his commitment to his cultural pursuits by undertaking work experience to gather an increased understanding of music culture. His work experience duties included helping operate the Gladstone Harbour Festival stage, a highlight being his selection as live camera-person for the Jazz ‘n’ Shiraz Kate Ceberano concert. Throughout high school, Thomas was involved in music and choir programs, assisted with fundraising initiatives and has displayed leadership abilities. He has proudly sung the national anthem at school functions, award nights and ANZAC Day services.

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Thomas’ active participation in the local cultural scene has encouraged him to pursue a career in the industry and he is eagerly auditioning for a study placement.

Ayden Roberts Ayden Roberts, 17, showcases his talents by participating in many of Gladstone’s cultural performances. Music plays a major part in Ayden’s life and he consistently displays his ability and adaptability to perform on stage. His rhythmic skill is exhibited in band settings, playing various instruments through to projection of his voice in musical productions.

A Gladstone State High School student, Ayden performs in four school bands. He plays bass and trombone in the Big Band, changes to euphonium for the Concert Band, switches to viola for Strings and performs on bass for the Symphonic line-up. Ayden attended his school’s band tour of New Zealand and was a member of the State Core Choir which performed in Creative Generations in Brisbane. Excelling in all areas he pursues, Ayden was awarded the lead role of Bullfrog in the combined schools musical “Honk” and played the lead character Jafar in Gladstone State High School’s musical “Aladdin Jr”. Adding to his achievements, Ayden participated in vocals at the State Honours Ensemble Program at the Conservatorium in Brisbane and shared the success of three first placings performing with “Vibrant Vocals” (GASSA) Choir at the Gladstone Eisteddfod. A member of the Maynard Singers, the group won an aggregate placing at the Queensland Eisteddfod in Maryborough. As a solo vocalist for “Inner City Breakdown”, Ayden has performed at Gladstone’s Battle of the Bands and Thursday Night Events. In 2011 he was awarded the Gladstone State High School Cyril Golding Cultural Award of the Year for the second consecutive year.

Samuel Thompson Two years ago, with no previous background or training, 16-year-old Samuel Thompson decided to follow a musical theatre dream. Through hard work, perseverance and uncompromising determination, Samuel is on his way towards achieving his goal. Samuel was invited to attend a two week musical theatre course in January 2012 at the University of Southern Queensland’s McGregor School. He has made a significant cultural contribution to the community, performing as a member of the Maynard Singers and combined school choir Vibrant Vocals. Samuel performed at Gladstone Regional Council’s Music in the Gardens in May 2011 and gave solo and choir performances at Carols by Candlelight. He took to the stage in the Junior GLOS production of “The Boyfriend”, held three minor roles in the combined schools musical “Honk” and was a smash hit as Genie in the Gladstone State High School musical “Aladdin Jr”. His talents have extended to making a short film as part of the “In the Bin” touring festival in July 2010 and performing at the Gladstone Region Festival of Arts’ “Surrounding Seas Dreams” in August 2011. Samuel participated in a play competition, “Short and Sweet”, in Rockhampton and was nominated as one of the best young actors for his outstanding performance. He placed first in the character recital, in a light opera duet and choir section at the Queensland Eisteddfod in Maryborough in April 2011. At the 2011 Gladstone Eisteddfod, Samuel was awarded encouragement awards for speech and drama and vocal, and performed with Vibrant Vocals, the best overall choir.

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Senior Cultural Award Nominations (2) Beth Jones Beth Jones has taught speech and drama for more than 30 years and has been actively involved in the local Eisteddfod for just as many. She has helped the Gladstone Eisteddfod Committee for the past six years, taking the minutes, serving as Speech and Drama Coordinator and Trophy Coordinator at the Eisteddfod. Beth prepares many students, both as individuals and in groups, for the Gladstone Eisteddfod, guides them through Trinity Guildhall and AMEB speech and drama examinations, and assists students prepare for university auditions. Beth passes on her love of teaching to her students, prepares older students and adults for teaching certificates in speech and drama, and helps other teachers prepare their students.

Beth works with a wide range of students aged five to adult, all with varying abilities and needs, including special needs students experiencing speech language disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Aspergers Syndrome, hearing impairment and various learning disabilities. She is an advocate for people with special needs and has proven that all children are capable of learning and appreciating poems, prose and drama, teaching them new skills and helping them become confident performers and speakers. Beth’s personal belief is that the English language is rich in diversity and beauty and that we are all the better for exploring this part of our cultural heritage.

Natalia Muszkat Since relocating to Gladstone four years ago, Natalia has dedicated her time here to assist newly arriving migrants settle in the Gladstone Region. Natalia was instrumental in establishing the Women’s Intercultural Network, now called Welcoming Intercultural Neighbours Inc, which boasts 500 network members since its inception 18 months ago. This initiative seeks to respond to the emerging community needs of our growing and diverse population. Natalia sourced funding for the network to provide services and programs that include English classes, first aid courses, community classes, weekly information sessions and assistance to school students when English is their second language. Natalia believes that a community is always better off when everyone works together to make the most of things. Natalia has coordinated a number of cultural events over the past year, including Gladstone’s Cultural Diversity Forum, Indonesia End of Year celebrations, a Caribbean Night and has also conducted a number of school presentations regarding cultural diversity in the Gladstone Region. Her work ensures the community embraces its new residents and she represents the culturally diverse needs of the community in organisations including the Women’s Health Centre, Sexual Assault Network, Gladstone Community Gardens, Early Childhood Network, Gladstone Communities for Children, Coordinated Community Response to Domestic Violence and Family Violence, Intercultural Reference Group and through interagency meetings. Natalia is a leader in providing programs and services that assist migrants to quickly integrate into the Region, encourage new residents to volunteer their time for the community’s benefit, and provide valuable information to newcomers about living in Australia.

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Young Sports Person of the Year Award (10) Eliza Armitage All-rounder Eliza Armitage’s passion for sport is evidenced by her strong performances across a number of codes, both in school and club competition. A member of a well-known Gladstone sporting family, Eliza’s versatility earned her Port Curtis selection in volleyball, softball and hockey, going on a step further to represent Capricornia in softball and hockey. A member of Gladstone State High’s Volleyball School of Excellence program for five years, Eliza won the school’s 2011 Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award. She has also proved to be a valuable member of the Souths top grade women’s softball and hockey teams, continuing a strong family tradition by turning out in the blue and white in both codes. Lessons learnt on the region’s fields and courts have resulted in Eliza developing strong leadership skills, as evidenced by the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award she received in 2010. Eliza’s commitment to achieving the best possible results in a variety of sports is duplicated in other areas of her life. Her continual drive for improvement, both in team practice and through individual training, did not prevent her from achieving academic success and displaying a commitment to community service. Eliza competed in the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) and Rio Tinto Big Science competitions and received Gladstone High’s Year 12 Academic Award for physical education. Eliza was also school vice captain and assisted with the 2011 Mayoral Breakfast and loaned her efforts to helping the region’s Vietnam veterans.

Ryan Beecroft Surf Life Saving Queensland is the beneficiary of the talents of all-rounder Ryan Beecroft, who has had a stellar 2011 in surf lifesaving competition.

Ryan, 17, is involved in all facets of surf lifesaving - surf sport, pool rescue and surf rescue. In 2011, he was Tannum Sands Surf Lifesaving Club Junior Member of the Year and at the Queensland Surf Lifesaving State endurance titles, he earned a silver medal in the 2km beach run, a bronze in the 2km surf swim and finished seventh in the 8km surf ski. At the Queensland State Pool Rescue championships, he was in the top five in all events and placed fourth in the under-17 division at the Queensland State Surf Rescue Championships. Ryan was also a finalist in the surf swim and semi-finalist in the iron person and ski events at the Queensland State Surf Life Saving Championships - Surf Sports 2011; and at Coolangatta Gold he finished 23rd in the under-19 section of the 30.5km event. His success continued at the North Australian championships, claiming gold in the open ironman, U19 ironman and U19 ski events, plus a silver in the U19 tube, swim and board, and bronze in the open 2km beach run. He was also the U17 Wide Bay Capricorn Age Champion for surf sports in the 2010-11 season and was selected in the Queensland Country Team. Ryan is a keen volunteer, spending 50 hours last season conducting voluntary patrols on Tannum Beach and helping with many fundraising activities.

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Lachlan Cartwright Gladstone’s Lachlan Cartwright made local history in 2011 when he became Capricornia’s first Queensland School Sport 12 and under state golf champion, earning himself a berth in the eight-boy, four-girl state team which contested the national championships in Adelaide in November. He returned from the nationals with a team gold medal.

Achieving an Australian Golfing Union handicap of 9.7 by September 2011, and maintaining it to the season’s end, Lachlan became a member of a very elite few in CQ to record the achievement at such a tender age.

Lachlan has also had significant success in CQ and North Queensland events in 2011, winning two of the three rounds of the Townsville Triangle B grade events at Easter. Success at Rowes Bay during that the Townsville Triangle earned Lachlan selection in the Greg Norman Junior Masters which was contested over four rounds at Tweed Heads in December. He was also a regular winner in B grade (gross) and then A grade (nett) events of the CQ Junior Golf Championship calendar. Lachlan has also won the Capricornia School Sport 12&U Golf Championships, which is held over two rounds in February and October, on two occasions (2011 and 2010), and was runner-up in 2009 when in Year 5. He has represented CQ at three successive state school 12&U championships, one of a very few to do so, and in 2008, after taking up golf a year earlier, he won the Queensland U10 Chip ‘N’ Putt Championship in Brisbane.

Talia Galbraith Talia Galbraith, 17, strives to excel and reached new heights in her gymnastics success in 2011. Talia started the year at Level 8 and ended 2011 achieving Level 10, the highest honour in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics at a national level. Talia continues to impress coaches with her commitment to the sport as well as her overall physical strength. She competed in six events during the competitive season, finishing second All-Around at three events in Level 8; first All-Around twice in Level 9 (including club champion) and third All-Around in Level 10. A highlight for Talia in 2011 was selection in the Queensland team at the Border Challenge to represent her State against New South Wales in Level 8 competition. She has also expanded her gymnastic challenges, now experiencing success as a judge. As a beginner women’s gymnastics judge, Talia judged at all of the club’s term events and invitationals throughout the year. Talia’s commitment to training, drive and endurance makes her an ideal role model for young gymnasts. After a successful 2011, Talia was preparing to end her competitive gymnastics career on a high, participating at her second international competition recently in Hawaii. She has played an important role in club fundraising, was a presenter at a club luncheon and has helped at other fundraising events. Talia consistently demonstrates commitment to all of her varied pursuits. She also celebrated cross country sporting success with a second at school level and a fifth at the Port Curtis trials.

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Skye Henebery Level 6 gymnast Skye Henebery has attended Gladstone Gymnastics Club since April 2009 and has had a remarkable climb to success. The outstanding gymnast has achieved placings in every competition she has competed in and has quite often finished first. Skye’s dedication to the sport continues to impress with her success a tribute to the hard work she has exhibited in her short involvement with gymnastics. In 2010, she was first overall at the regional championships and dominated at all competitions. Skye received recognition for her achievements and in July she was privileged to be one of two girls invited by the Queensland Academy of Sport to trial for a place in the High Performance Program.

The trial experience was invaluable. She tested in front of the current Olympic Women’s Gymnastic coach and while she missed out on a place, Skye is required to attend again in 2012. Adding to her achievements, Skye attended the Queensland State Championships in June and placed second on uneven bars, fourth on floor and fifth overall. Skye was invited to attend a High Performance Clinic at Moreton Bay College in December and has been busy training towards an international gymnastics event in Hawaii in 2012. Her sporting success extended to include school representation in swimming and athletics, with selection for Central Queensland trials. While maintaining a busy gymnastics training schedule, Skye has already earned respect for being a Gladstone Relay For Life team captain and her active fundraising to support cancer research.

Josh Horkings Up-and-coming Miriam Vale golfer Josh Horkings went from strength to strength in 2011 when he stamped himself as one of the most rapidly improved juniors in Central Queensland. Josh, 14, is a relative newcomer to golf but has already shown a highly developed sense of sportsmanship.

He has also impressed with his commitment to improving himself by spending countless hours training at the course each week. During the year, Josh bagged several high-placed finishes including wins in the Gracemere, Miriam Vale and Biloela junior C grade championships and a seventh place finish in the Capricornia junior C grade championship at Yeppoon, contested over three days. Josh also stepped up confidently into junior B grade competition, finishing nett runner-up and third in the gross event at the Boyne Tannum Junior Open late in the year. Josh also enjoyed success in men’s competition, claiming 11th spot in the Central Queensland B grade championship at Rockhampton as well as being a finalist in the 2011 men’s medal at Miriam Vale. Josh tasted further success at his home club, lining up with the winning team in the “Glenco Shield” mixed teams event; winning the men’s monthly medal for July; and the 2011 club men’s medal final; and finishing overall nett winner in the 72 hole men’s open. Topping off a big year, Josh was also the Central Queensland Greg Norman Junior Shark Challenge nett winner for 2011. Josh’s outstanding progress has helped raise the profile of golf as an attractive proposition for young members of the Miriam Vale community.

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Chloe Jess Surf lifesaving is Chloe Jess’s first passion, but the capable competitor is often among the medals at Gladstone Swimming Club meets. Chloe amassed an impressive list of achievements during the 2010-11 surf lifesaving season, particularly impressing in her favoured champion lifesaver category consisting of surf swim, beach sprint, rescue tube and board events, plus the completion of a 40 question multiple choice exam and resuscitation examination. The under-15 competitor finished third at the Australian championships and at the Laerdal Queensland championships, second at the North Australian titles and claimed victory at the Wide Bay Capricorn championships. Chloe, who consistently trains for swimming and surf lifesaving, has been with Tannum Sands Surf Lifesaving Club for 11 seasons. As a patrolling member of the club, Chloe completes more than 40 hours of active duty each season and despite her busy schedule, often finds time to help the club with its fundraising efforts. In the pool rescue surf life saving event, Chloe’s successes at North Queensland and Wide Bay championships led to her selection for the Queensland Country Team. She proved herself to be as at home in the swimming pool as she is in the surf when she won the 2.5km open water swim and 400m freestyle (U14) events at the Liquid Energy Carnival held in Gladstone in November 2010 and she gained several medals at the Harbour City Carnival and Central Queensland Swimming Championships in 2011.

In the off-season, Chloe plays and umpires netball.

Poppy Larson Poppy Larson’s netballing career is set following her selection for the Carina Leagues Club Tigers State League Netball Team in Brisbane in 2012. The talented Capricorn Claws regional team and Queensland Ergon Energy Capricorn Academy member excels in tasks set down for her and is a role model for others. The year 2011 has seen her travel state-wide, as far north as Cairns and south to Brisbane, as a member of the Claws team, earning herself the 2011 Capricornia Claws Flamank Shooter Award for accuracy in the process. She was the Yaralla Sports Star of the Year monthly award winner for July and was voted by her peers as Senior Player of the Year for the Gladstone and District Netball Association. Poppy also represented the Queensland under-17 team in 2011; and was selected in the training squad of 30 at phase two state under-19 selections held in Brisbane, the final team from which will not be finalised until February 2012. Not surprisingly, Poppy also earned the Senior Player of the Year 2011 award for her club, Yaralla Dynamics Falcons.

Poppy is highly regarded for her commitment to her club and the community and is often seen assisting with the development of junior athletics in the region, attending regular clinics and offering guidance and support to young girls. Poppy has played netball since the age of five and spends, on average, an hour per day training, plus travelling to Rockhampton to hone her skills in their competition and Brisbane as part of the state team.

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Hannah Lowry Hannah Lowry, 13, has shown her sporting diversity with successful achievements in 2011 across different fields. Hannah enjoyed the sweet taste of success in October as part of the undefeated U13 girls Queensland hockey team. Competing at the national titles was a highlight for Hannah when the State team won the gold medal. Donning Queensland representative colours provided a rewarding experience for Hannah’s commitment to the team sport. Hannah has continually impressed as a competent and confident hockey player with dedication to her sport resulting in numerous club awards. She was named Sparks Hockey Club’s Most Outstanding Junior Player and defeated strong competition to score the Gladstone Hockey Association’s Most Promising Junior Player. Throughout 2011 Hannah also displayed her sporting ability off the hockey field. She not only emphasised the importance of being a good sport in a team event but showed her focus and drive to succeed in individual pursuits. The keen swimmer dived in at the State Sprint Titles at Chandler, Brisbane and had a successful swim, snaring a silver medal in the 50m breaststroke. At Gladstone club level, Hannah won the Western Suburbs Swimming Club’s Club Champion Award. Topping off her swimming accomplishments for 2011, she was named runner-up age champion at the Central Queensland Swimming Championships. Hannah proved speed in the swimming pool was not her only strength. Participating in school sports, Hannah displayed her all-round sporting talents as a strong contender on the athletics track when claiming the 100m and 200m races at the Interschool Athletics Carnival.

Keecia Mallie Gymnastics has played a major role in Keecia Mallie’s life for the past 14 years. Keecia’s dedication and commitment to training was rewarded in 2011 when she achieved Level 10, the highest national gymnastics level in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics. As an Assistant Coach under the club Challenge Achievement Pathways program, Keecia is an active mentor, training young girls starting in the competitive stream.

She is a beginner ACRO judge and an intermediate bronze women’s gymnastics judge. Besides training, coaching and judging Keecia helps with choreography and fundraising events and has showcased her talents as a speaker and singer. Keecia spends 18 to 20 hours per week training for the Women’s Artistic and Acrobatic Gymnastics programs. She successfully competed in 2011 with first and second all-around placings and, with her partner, finished first in the Level 5 Women’s Pairs in their only acrobatic competition. The pair was selected as a reserve for the Queensland Acrobatic team. Keecia’s strong performances have rewarded her with placings at Regionals from Level 4 to 10, winning levels from 2006 to 2009. In early 2012, she will compete in her second international competition in Hawaii. Outside of gymnastics, Keecia captained and was named the Most Valuable Player for Chanel College’s netball confraternity side and team. She has helped at numerous netball fundraisers and volunteered to coach a young school netball team during her lunch break. Keecia supports sports and cultural activities in the indigenous community and participates in NAIDOC Week and other community celebrations.

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Senior Sports Person of the Year Award (2) Cian Fothergill The year 2011 has continued the pattern of amazing outcomes for Gladstone Kart Club member Cian Fothergill. On the back of his incredible 2010 success which earned him numerous awards and accolades, including being the winner of the premier event of Australian karting (the Commission Internationale de Karting [CIK] Series in the KF1 class), Cian’s skill, hard work and dedication has continued to pay off with a string of impressive results at local, state, interstate, national and international level in 2011. His list of achievements includes being the fastest qualifier and national champion in two separate race classes Clubman Light and Leopard Light; Queensland State Champion in one class and runner-up in another; as well as runner-up in the New South Wales State Championships and major placegetter at the Victorian State Championships. Along with this, Cian’s second tilt at Australia’s highest level karting series (CIK) resulted in two round wins and a second, plus overall runner-up for the series, and overall fastest qualifier for the series. As a result of his exciting performances, he was also voted the Dunlop Driver’s Driver of the Series. In addition to his commitment to racing nationwide, Cian has continued to support and race at his local Gladstone Kart Track whenever possible. In a sport that is fiercely competitive at an individual level, Cian stands out as a role model for others as he continually puts his time and efforts back into the club and helps mentor others, whether they are young upand-coming racers or senior competitors.

Lewis Marshall Gladstone cyclist Lewis Marshall is Cycling Queensland’s Senior Road Cyclist of the Year, a title he won after almost clean sweeping the major master cycling events in Queensland and Australia in 2011. Lewis, 52, travels from Gladstone to his home club at Rockhampton three times a week for training, as it is the nearest cycling club to Gladstone, and spends countless hours on the road annually to compete against the nation’s best. Despite his training regime that was hampered by the flooding of early 2011, Lewis’s hard work bagged him a swag of titles in 2011. He is the reigning Australian Masters Champion of Champions (Road 2011); Australian Masters Road Criterium Champion 2011; Queensland Masters Road Criterium and Time Trial Champion; Queensland Masters Track - Individual Pursuit Champion; and Queensland Masters Track Scratch Race Champion.

At the Australian Masters Games in Adelaide in 2011, Lewis captured gold in road events as well as track events, including the Road Criterium, Time Trial, Individual Pursuit 2000m and Scratch Race, plus silver in the Sprint and Time Trial 500m events. He also was the Maryborough Masters Road Champion, Rockhampton Cycling Club A grade track champion, winner of Calliope Classic (Category 3) 120 kilometre road race and winner of the Gold Fever Le Tour (Category 3) Stage Race Road 2011 that was held at Charters Towers/Townsville. Lewis, who enjoys mentoring others, makes the most of his riding with a group of friends when not training or competing.

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Sports Official of the Year Award (5) Mark Bryant The surf lifesaving movement is all the better for having Mark Bryant as part of it. Mark, as an active member of the Tannum Sands Surf Life Saving Club, has shown passion and leadership in everything he has achieved during the past decade of service. Mark wears multiple hats at the club and spends countless hours volunteering in the process. He is the current junior club coach, steering the training and development of 100 Nippers aged nine to 14 years throughout the surf lifesaving season.

As junior club training officer, Mark works with the club’s training officer to ensure that all juniors are proficient and achieve their appropriate surf lifesaving awards. As chairperson of the junior development group, he leads a committee in organising development clinics for the juniors and performs the associated administration work. He is also the youth development officer for the club and has been responsible for presenting a framework and five-year plan to encourage local youth to continue to participate in all aspects of surf lifesaving. Mark is also patrol captain, spending many voluntary hours on the beach overseeing patrols and ensuring beach safety for all. He is a Level 1 official and expects to receive his Level 2 authorisation soon. Mark performs official duties at all junior branch carnivals, the North Australian Championships and Queensland junior titles, and holds the position of carnival referee at local carnivals. Mark and his family also support the club through their active participation in fundraising activities.

Owen Harms Owen Harms went from player to coach, president, secretary, treasurer and Life Member of the Miriam Vale Rugby League Club (Magpies). Always acting selflessly in his roles at the club, Owen goes above and beyond to keep the club and players active and competing in the Northern Districts Rugby League competition. The Magpies have Owen to thank for the improvements to their facilities, as he spends countless hours mowing and line marking, as well as organising game day functions including the bar, food and raffles. Through his role as president, Owen has secured funding for the enhancement works to the Gary Larson Oval, including lighting, automated watering system and player enclosures. Realising the need for further facilities, Owen coordinated the Gary Larson Oval Enhancement Group and sought funding for a new clubhouse. His hard work paid off when he was advised in October 2011 that the Federal Government would fund the entire clubhouse project to the value of $280,000. Miriam Vale sporting groups and the wider community will benefit greatly from this project. Owen is also Officer in Charge of the Miriam Vale Police Station and holds numerous community roles, including Adopt-a-Cop, Neighbourhood Watch, president of the Miriam Vale State School P&C, Lions Club member and Clean Up Australia Day coordinator for Miriam Vale. It is the small things that Owen does for both the rugby league club and the community that make him a great ambassador for the Miriam Vale area.

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Kevin Howard Gladstone-born Kevin Howard demonstrates an unrelenting dedication and determination towards strengthening and maintaining interest in regional volleyball. Kevin has provided voluntary leadership and governance of the Gladstone Volleyball Association for more than 10 years. His extensive contribution has been recognised with a Distinguished Service Award by the sport’s parent body, the Queensland Volleyball Association (trading as Volleyball Queensland). In a decade, Kevin has held the position of club president and primary administrator of the long-running and very successful social competition. As a direct result of his energies and efforts, there are currently over 20 teams competing every Thursday night on three court venues in Gladstone. This equates to about 150 registered volleyball players of both genders, aged 13 to 50. Kevin also contributes to the development of the sport at a higher level. He has held the seat of Central Queensland Director on the Board of Volleyball Queensland for the past five years. In this role, he provides judicious stewardship and much-needed advocacy for the sport in Central Queensland.

Kevin provides a significant contribution to the sport that extends beyond our Council boundaries. He provides his time and expertise as a coach at various schools, meeting all expenses himself for the betterment of the sport. He coaches school teams, including Gladstone State High, Calliope, Gladstone Central, Kin Kora, Mount Larcom, Faith Baptist, South, Benaraby and Moura. Kevin is directly responsible for the annual inter-city challenge between Gladstone, Gympie, Kingaroy and Bundaberg, offering competition for developing elite-level athletes throughout Central Queensland.

Julie Maeyke Julie Maeyke was one of the driving forces in re-establishing the Gladstone District Dirtriders Club in 1996 and has held several positions in the club during the past 12 years, most recently as the secretary and race secretary. Julie has played an integral role in the club’s development, both on and off the track. In 1998, after the club was forced to relocate to a vacant block of land at Benaraby, construction of a track was first on Julie’s agenda. Over time, with funds generated from the club and grants received, the club has built a new canteen, relocated a toilet block, constructed lap scorer huts, shaded start areas and fenced the allotment and Julie was involved at every step. What started as a vacant block is now a premier motocross facility and yet Julie is still striving for more. She is currently involved with building the Benaraby Motorsports complex into a hub for motorsports in Central Queensland and she will hold the secretary’s position for this organisation once complete. She is also a Level 3, state and national accredited race official, which allows her to run events at their Benaraby track. The year 2012 will see the track host at least three major events. Julie has received numerous awards over the years for her involvement with the sport, including the 2009 Motorcycling Queensland Official of the Year and the CQ Moto Mania Sports Administrator Award in 2010. She was honoured with Life Membership to the Gladstone Dirtriders Club in 2009.

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Anna Turetschek In 1977, Anna Turetschek set out on a mission to teach the children of Gladstone the sport she loved so much, gymnastics, and with that the Gladstone Gymnastics Club was born. Her club’s mission was to provide a gymnastics program to the greater Gladstone community so that each member can maximise their movement potential and sporting personal goals through gymnastic sports. Thirty-five years later, Anna remains heavily involved in the club’s daily operations as a coach, judge and event coordinator. The year 2011 saw Anna re-introduce the CAPS (Challenge Achievement Pathway in Sport) program which identifies youth to serve as athletes or assistant coaches in the club, providing both the individual and club the opportunity to grow. Anna advocates for the education of judges in the Central Queensland region, presenting many WG Beginner and Intermediate judging courses over the years.

Her expertise in judging is an asset to both Gladstone and the Central Queensland region, as she is one of only a handful of Advanced Level judges in the area, and was awarded the Gymnastics Queensland Official of the Year Award in 2011 for her extraordinary efforts and work as an official. Anna was named a Life Member of the Gymnastics Queensland Association in 2011. She volunteers countless hours at the gym organising term events, invitationals, education courses, the annual display and end-of-year break up. When Anna is not volunteering for the club, she enjoys working as a Friends of the Theatre volunteer at the Gladstone Entertainment Centre.

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Young Citizen of the Year Award (2) Talia Galbraith Talia Galbraith strives to excel, showing dedication and commitment to all of her various pursuits. The 17-year-old Gladstone State High School student actively participates in all educational areas from academia to culture and sport. Talia has continually shown her strength in gymnastics, representing Gladstone at many meets. Her commitment to training was rewarded with first placings in Level 8 competition at the Harbour City Invitational, and in Level 9 at the Yeppoon Gymnastics Invitational competition and Gladstone Club championships. Talia claimed second spot overall in Level 8 competition at the Border Challenge State Teams event, and showed her sporting diversity by finishing fifth at the Port Curtis cross country trials. Talia applies the drive and endurance she exhibits in her sporting pursuits to her community contributions. A responsible attitude and leadership ability has supported her strong involvement in fundraising for community events. She has participated in the Red Shield Doorknock Appeal, Gladstone’s Botanic to Bridge fun run and the Mater Little Miracles Walk. She has supported the Leukaemia Foundation by participating in Gladstone High’s Crazy Hair Day, represented the school at the ANZAC Day parade in 2011, and provided voluntary help at a senior citizen’s dinner. Talia has served as president of Interact for Gladstone State High School and was awarded her school’s Best All-Rounder Award in 2010. Talia is also part of her school’s Senior Student Council Executive and has attended the International Science School and National Youth Science Forum, competed in the Gladstone Eisteddfod, and assisted with the NAPLAN and Chaplain’s breakfasts.

Skye Henebery At 14 years of age, Skye Henebery has earned the honour of being the city’s youngest Gladstone Relay for Life team captain. Skye has shown a level of commitment beyond her teenage years, avidly raising funds to support cancer research. That commitment has served Skye well in her gymnastics career. As a champion gymnast, Skye won multiple competitions throughout Queensland in 2011, including major placings at the State Titles. Despite her busy training schedule, Skye has devoted many hours to fundraising for cancer research, her efforts helping people of all ages who have been struck by various forms of the disease. She has assisted teenagers with cancer through the sale of bandannas for CANTEEN’s Bandanna Day. Skye also raised funds to contribute to breast cancer research and enthusiastically organised and led a team to participate in the Gladstone Relay for Life event. Skye and her team, cleverly named Heaven Can Wait, raised $1517 and dedicated a night to walk laps of Gladstone’s Chanel College oval in memory of past cancer patients and in support of those diagnosed with cancer. Skye maintains a busy schedule contributing to the support of disadvantaged youth. She is a responsible role model for her peers and is well known and respected for her fundraising efforts and participation in local charity events. Skye displays a willingness to assist others and is keen to develop this trait to fulfil her desire of becoming a foster carer when she reaches the required age.

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Citizen of the Year Award (9) Mark Bryant The surf lifesaving movement is all the better for having Mark Bryant as part of it. Mark, as an active member of the Tannum Sands Surf Life Saving Club, has shown passion and leadership in everything he has achieved during the past decade of service. Mark wears multiple hats at the club and spends countless hours volunteering in the process. He is the current junior club coach, steering the training and development of 100 Nippers aged nine to 14 years throughout the surf lifesaving season.

As junior club training officer, Mark works with the club’s training officer to ensure that all juniors are proficient and achieve their appropriate surf lifesaving awards. As chairperson of the junior development group, he leads a committee in organising development clinics for the juniors and performs the associated administration work. He is also the youth development officer for the club and has been responsible for presenting a framework and five-year plan to encourage local youth to continue to participate in all aspects of surf lifesaving. Mark is also patrol captain, spending many voluntary hours on the beach overseeing patrols and ensuring beach safety for all. He is a Level 1 official and expects to receive his Level 2 authorisation soon. Mark performs official duties at all junior branch carnivals, the North Australian Championships and Queensland junior titles, and holds the position of carnival referee at local carnivals. Mark and his family also support the club through their active participation in fundraising activities.

Cecily Burkett Boyne Island resident Cecily Burkett, a former teacher, has been an active member of the community during the past four decades. It is through her dedication and kindness that she has become a well known local identity. A seven year member of the Boyne Island Lions Club, Cecily is the club’s current publicity officer and secretary. She served as Youth of the Year Chairperson for seven years; her duties included organising club, zone and regional judging events and encouraging senior high school students to participate in public speaking contests. In 2010, the withdrawal of government funding for the Boyne Island Low Vision Support Group resulted in Cecily organising funding through the Boyne Island Lions Club to keep the group operating. Cecily now prepares monthly outings, transport and social interactions for this group. She also volunteers with the St Vincent de Paul Society, assisting in the sorting of donations and taking garments home to mend for sale. Her generosity also benefits the St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Tannum Sands, where, as secretary of the Pastoral Leadership Group, she organises social activities for the church’s family group. Cecily is also an active member of Gladstone Legacy, looking after social interests of war widows and fundraising; performs stall coordinator duties for the popular Beach Arts Music (BAM) monthly events; and is highly regarded for hosting and organising the Neighbourhood Christmas party at her home for the past five years, encouraging social interaction between up to 30 neighbours.

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Owen Harms Owen Harms has gone from player to coach, president, secretary, treasurer and Life Member of the Miriam Vale Rugby League Club (Magpies) over the years. Always acting selflessly in his roles at the club, Owen goes above and beyond to keep the club and players active and competing in the Northern Districts Rugby League competition. The Magpies have Owen to thank for the improvements to their facilities, as he spends countless hours mowing and line marking, as well as organising game day functions including the bar, food and raffles. Through his role as president, Owen has secured funding for the enhancement works to the Gary Larson Oval, including lighting, automated watering system and player enclosures. Realising the need for further facilities, Owen coordinated the Gary Larson Oval Enhancement Group and sought funding for a new clubhouse. His hard work paid off when he was advised in October 2011 that the Federal Government would fund the entire clubhouse project to the value of $280,000. Miriam Vale sporting groups and the wider community will benefit greatly from this project. Owen is also Officer in Charge of the Miriam Vale Police Station and holds numerous community roles, including Adopt-aCop, Neighbourhood Watch, president of the Miriam Vale State School P&C, Lions Club member and Clean Up Australia Day coordinator for Miriam Vale. It is the small things that Owen does for both the rugby league club and the community that make him a great ambassador for the Miriam Vale area.

Sally Heap When Sally Heap moved to Turkey Beach three and a half years ago, she brought with her a wealth of knowledge and experience gained during 13 years as a State Emergency Service officer in three different states.

Sally immediately put her years of experience to work, signing up as a Queensland Ambulance Service trained Turkey Beach first responder.

This group of local residents is contacted when a 000 call is received in the area. Responders then report to the emergency site and provide basic first aid until the arrival of the ambulance and paramedic, as the nearest ambulance is 35 minutes from Turkey Beach. As a first responder, Sally provides life saving treatment and reassurance, and relays critical patient information to responding paramedics. Sally invests untold time and effort in her volunteer role, working with empathy and compassion and providing a personal service above and beyond the call of duty. Sally also signed up as a Turkey Beach Rural Firefighter and member of the Turkey Beach Progress Association when she moved to the area. In 2011 she was elected vice president of the Progress Association. Sally also raises funds for various events, helping boost community spirit in the process. She is also an advocate for cancer awareness, organising ‘Girls Night In’ fundraising evenings each year to raise money for women’s cancer treatment and programs. The Turkey Beach community has benefited from Sally’s experience in responding to emergencies and disasters and her dedication to the community is second to none.

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Geoff Lester A personal experience with prostate cancer in 2004 has driven Gladstone man Geoff Lester’s passion to help others. Geoff, in his efforts to help save men’s lives, formed the Gladstone and District Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2005 and was then selected as an ambassador for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia in 2006. In his ambassadorial role, Geoff has delivered numerous prostate cancer education and awareness talks at public events, work places, community group gatherings and to sporting teams in Gladstone, Rockhampton, Yeppoon, Biloela, Monto, Moura and Mount Morgan. Those attending his sessions have often provided feedback suggesting Geoff’s passion and empathy have contributed significantly to the success of the program and ensured the key messages have reached their intended audience. In recent years Geoff extended the education program to cover all aspects of health specific to men, not just prostate health. His motive for doing this was to educate men on the importance of recognising and attending to changes in their bodies, and to the value of having regular health checks. Geoff is also known for his tireless work in helping organise the “No Joke Blokes” campaign in November 2011. This event brought cricket icon Merv Hughes and two highly regarded doctors to Gladstone to attend four men’s health education sessions over the course of two days. Attracting almost 300 people from a range of backgrounds, the “No Joke Blokes Your Health Your Choice” campaign was hugely successful in achieving its objectives.

John Massey Quick thinking by John Massey and his crew of New South Wales visitors prevented possible drownings at Tannum Sands in June. John and his visitors were approaching the Boyne River mouth after having completed a day’s fishing off the coast when John witnessed a boat capsize, throwing a father and his three children into the water. He immediately noticed the children were struggling to keep their heads above water. While occupants of other boats were frozen in inaction, John immediately drove towards the struggling swimmers, positioning his boat so that his crew could haul the stricken foursome out of the water. Without the quick reaction of John and his crew, the incident may have ended tragically. The action typified John’s willingness to help others, with the Tannum Sands resident boasting a long history of dedicated community service. From an early age John volunteered as a Lions club and bush fire brigade member. He also joined the Army Reserves and received the Cadet of the Year Award for his dedication and commitment to the cause. His desire to serve the community remains intact as evidenced by his current membership of the Tannum Sands Fire Brigade which often requires him to assist at road accidents and help fellow residents in times of trouble. John is also part of an emergency response team at his place of employment, his experience in dealing with potentially dangerous situations making him a valuable asset to his employer and fellow employees.

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Greg Realf Greg Realf, a former Miriam Vale Councillor, has dedicated more than 15 years of service to the local community, providing his friendly and approachable personality to many different organisations. He has been an instrumental part in raising funds for numerous local charities while working for the Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited (GAPDL) based in Miram Vale. Greg’s contributions include being current president of the Miriam Vale Lions Club; a 10 year member (four as president) of the Miriam Vale Parents and Citizens Committee; executive member of Queensland Information Centre Association; and member of the Gary Larson Oval Enhancement Group, Miriam Vale Magpies Football Club and Local Marine Advisory Committee, and five years involvement with Miriam Vale Rural Science and Landcare. He is also well known for his involvement in the Baffle Creek Catchment Management Group; being the founding president of Miriam Vale Community Development Incorporated and group leader of the Miriam Vale State Emergency Service for three years. Greg has also led several community development projects, including the heritage registration of the iconic local fig tree and construction of a viewing deck; a youth shelter design workshop and construction project; the Miriam Vale Green Corps program; and the Miriam Vale Enhancement Plan. Greg’s passion for his community has also led him to initiate several programs such as the development and delivery of a rural leaders course; seagrass monitoring in the Baffle Creek catchment; coordinate school water monitoring workshops, and help organise lease agreements for a men’s shed, youth centre and Lions Club den.

David Roby David Roby worked as a carpenter before changing careers to work as a Chaplain at Toolooa State High School. Through his chaplaincy role, David is able to contribute to the community he is so passionate about, leading numerous youth camps and programs, including a program for at risk girls, called ‘Shine’, which aims to help build their self-esteem and confidence. In September, David rode his bicycle from the Gold Coast to Sydney to raise money for ‘Break the Cycle’, a charity advocating for the world’s poor by raising awareness and assisting children living in extreme poverty. The ride took place from September 24 to October 2 and this year’s funds raised will go to programs run by Eagles Wings, an organisation working with children in poverty in Zambia and other countries in Southern Africa. David also rode from Gladstone to Brisbane in January raising funds for Compassion Australia and helped coordinate the 2011 Tour de Chaplain from Many Peaks to the Marina, a bike ride fundraising for the work of School Chaplains in the Gladstone District. David also works with young men to help them realise their potential through Action Based Learning and, with the little spare time he has, facilitates a mentoring program for high school aged boys. This year, David worked with school refusers at a ‘drumbeat’ program designed to engage at risk youths through music, playing the African djembe drum with them. David hopes to study Psychology in 2012 to equip him with further skills to aid young people in regional areas such as Gladstone.

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Cheryl Wickes Since taking up residency at Agnes Water in 2002, Cheryl has devoted her time and efforts to the community. Cheryl has been involved in many committees for various community groups and is the current president of the Agnes Water Surf Life Saving Supporters Club, a member of the Lions Club board and president of the Captain Cook 1770 Festival.

The festival has cemented itself as a major calendar event, attracting many visitors to the area. She has been involved with the Disaster Management Group, was instrumental in resurrecting the Agnes Water Triathlon, and has held several Discovery Coast Tourism and Commerce Incorporated executive positions. Cheryl was a major contributor to improvements made to the Discovery Coast Sport and Recreation Club. As part of the club’s committee, Cheryl oversaw its development and it now hosts netball, rugby league and AFL competitions for both junior and senior players. She also attends the Agnes Water Intra-agency meetings for local organisations and has offered her support at these meetings for the Agnes Water Men’s Shed and Community Garden. As the owner/editor of the Coastal Rag, Cheryl endeavours to bring the community together to promote the people, the places and the lifestyle of the Discovery Coast, advertising community events, playgroups, sporting and health services for free. Cheryl lends her efforts to fundraising events by coordinating community support and helping ensure the viability of a club or organisation’s future. Her contributions to the community are widely-known and appreciated in the Agnes Water/Seventeen Seventy area and further afield.

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Australia Day 2012 Awards Presentation Evening

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y a D a i l Austra reat! r g s ’ t a h w e t a Celebr Family Fun Day

Millennium Esplanade, Tannum Sands January 26 - 4.00pm to 8.00pm Program of Events  1000 free sausages  Rides and Free Face Painting  Roving performers “The Crack Up Sisters” 4.30pm Band, local pop duo “Lyrebird” 5.20pm Pie Eating Competition 5.45pm Onstage performance “The Crack Up Sisters” 6.00pm Flag Raising Ceremony, National Anthem,

Announcement of the “Celebrate Australia,

Primary School Art Competition” winners 6.45pm Band, local pop duo “Lyrebird” 7.45pm

Fireworks

Gladstone Regional Council has designated all of their parklands alcohol free. Please be aware that Australia Day celebration at Millennium Esplanade is a family friendly event. Your cooperation is appreciated.