Australia Day Nominations Announced!

On every street in the Hinchinbrook Shire, there is someone who makes life a little brighter.
Someone who lends a hand, leads the way, and quietly strengthens the fabric of our community.

This year, those stories have come flooding in, and they tell a powerful story about the heart of Hinchinbrook.

A total of 27 nominations across eight categories have been received for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, each one recognising an individual or group who embodies the very best of Hinchinbrook.     Continued on page 2

PAGE 2 HEADING: 50 Stories Of Heart, Strength And Community This Australia Day

From flood-time heroes who stepped up during the 2025 floods, to volunteers, mentors, young leaders and everyday community champions, these 27 nominations reflect resilience, compassion and an unwavering commitment to others.

As a one-off recognition, Council has introduced a new category to recognise those who went above and beyond to support the Hinchinbrook community during the January and February 2025 floods.

It’s about acknowledging the practical help, leadership, and selfless service shown during one of the shire’s toughest times. There won’t be an overall winner in this category — 24 recipients will be recognised for the incredible difference they made.

Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor Ramon Jayo said the awards are about saying thank you to the people who keep the community strong.

“Our nominees and recipients tell the story of people who often work quietly, without fuss, but always with heart and the community at the centre of everything they do,” Mayor Jayo said.

“They are lending a hand, volunteering in tough times, young people showing courage, and locals who go the extra mile simply because it’s the right thing to do.

“That says a lot about who we are. We are a community that values commitment, service and leadership.”

Join Hinchinbrook for the free 2026 Australia Day celebrations on Monday, 26th of January 2026, starting with an Australian Concert, Citizenship Ceremony and Official Awards Presentation from 9am at Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, followed by a free Making Waves Australia Day Pool Party with sausage sizzle, cake, DJ and activities from 11:30am to 4pm at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre.

The 2026 Making Waves Australia Day Pool Party is a Hinchinbrook Shire Council and Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre event, assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

Bookings for both events are not required. For more information, call (07) 4776 4600.

Bigger Sub Heading: Nominees for 2026 Hinchinbrook Shire Australia Day Awards
For the extensive and descriptive list of the nominations, please go online and view at: (link to full description article)

Junior Sports Award nominees
Liam Fascetti
Levi Murray

Junior Cultural Award nominees
Indiana Guy

Senior Cultural Award
Janice Carr
Madeleine D’Urso

Individual Achievement Award
Janice Carr
Leonardo Chiesa
Madeleine D’Urso
Vera Di Bella
Sharon Fighera
Robert Muller
Rina Zatta

Community Event of the Year Award
2025 Ingham Maraka Festival by the Ingham Maraka Festival Committee
2025 Sportstar Awards by the Ingham Lions Club

Shire Young Citizen Award
Gemma Di Bella
Keldon Fletcher
Victoria Velton

Shire Citizen Award
Janice Carr
Travis Cauchi
Carina Chesson
Leonardo Chiesa
Daniel Cordner
Sam Cosentino
Madeleine D’Urso
Vera Di Bella
Coral Gard
Sharon Fighera

2025 Flood Hero Recognition recipients
Evlyn Bailey
Victor Bligh
Robert Bonassi
Kerri-Ann Burnell
Ian Cameron
Daniel Castorina
Travis Cauchi
Carina Chesson
Daniel Cordner
Madeleine D’Urso
Francis Debono
Keldon Fletcher
Andrew Giliberto
Halifax Hotel’s Joe and Luke
Ingham Lions Club
Russell Kealy
Paul Longbottom
Jeff McMurray
Robert Morris
Don Pollock
Greg Sexton
Luke Shepherdson
Gio Tantalo
Luke Venables

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Junior Sports Award nominees
Liam Fascetti: Liam was nominated for his outstanding sporting achievements, particularly in squash. In 2025, he was Queensland Sharks U19 number one player and Captain, represented Queensland in the Trans-Tasman Series, and earned titles as Ingham Lions Senior Sportsman and Ingham State High School Sportsman of the Year. He also played soccer for his school and Ingham Football Club.

Levi Murray: Levi was nominated for his achievements in rodeo, competing in the 11–14 age group mini bull ride with multiple wins and placings. For the third year running, he has qualified for the ABCRA National Finals in Tamworth, entering ranked second nationally. He also claimed titles as Champion All-Round Cowboy and Champion Mini Bull Rider for his age group in the NQ Zone of ABCRA.

Junior Cultural Award nominees
Indiana Guy: Indiana was nominated for her dedication to the local arts community through her passion for dance. She regularly performs at local events, competes in Ingham Arts Festivals and beyond, and is actively involved in the Dance Step Program as both performer and mentor. Indiana also teaches her own Hip Hop class, inspiring the next generation of dancers. Through her teaching, performances, and community involvement, she truly embodies the spirit of cultural contribution.

Senior Cultural Award
Janice Carr: Jan was nominated for her outstanding contributions to the community, particularly through the Ingham Family History Association, where she was instrumental in its formalisation and has held every executive role since inception. She was also a founding member of the Herbert River Museum Gallery Inc., serving as Treasurer and Secretary, and is a long-time member of the Ingham Patchwork Group. Jan has worked tirelessly for every group she’s been part of, from schools to history associations.

Madeleine D’Urso: Madeleine was nominated for her significant contributions, particularly through the Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook, where she has strengthened its presence at major local events including the Ingham Show, Maraka Festival, Italian Festival, Christmas celebrations, and Tasman Turtle. She also served for many years on the Catholic Debutante Ball Committee and continues to support St Patrick’s Parish as a reader and Eucharistic Minister. Madeleine proudly shares her crafts, cooking, and sewing at the Annual Show.

Individual Achievement Award
Janice Carr: Jan was nominated for her outstanding contributions to the community, particularly through the Ingham Family History Association, where she was instrumental in its formalisation and has held every executive role since inception. She was also a founding member of the Herbert River Museum Gallery Inc., serving as Treasurer and Secretary, and is a long-time member of the Ingham Patchwork Group. Jan has worked tirelessly for every group she’s been part of, from schools to history associations.

Leonardo Chiesa: Lenny was nominated for more than 50 years of voluntary service to the community through Rugby League and Surf Lifesaving. Awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his contributions, he continues to mentor young lifesavers training for their Bronze Medallions, patrols beaches regularly, and has coached club members to compete successfully at national level. In 2025, Lenny was named Lions Club, North Queensland and Queensland Sportstar of the Year – Service to Sport and received the Clive Hammond Award for North Barrier Branch Surf Lifesaving Queensland.

Madeleine D’Urso: Madeleine was nominated for her significant contributions, particularly through the Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook, where she has strengthened its presence at major local events including the Ingham Show, Maraka Festival, Italian Festival, Christmas celebrations, and Tasman Turtle. She also served for many years on the Catholic Debutante Ball Committee and continues to support St Patrick’s Parish as a reader and Eucharistic Minister. Madeleine proudly shares her crafts, cooking, and sewing at the Annual Show.

Vera Di Bella: Vera was nominated for sharing her musical talent with the community by organising regular student and personal performances at local nursing homes, bringing residents joy, connection, and entertainment. She freely volunteers her time coordinating students, rehearsals, and events, instilling empathy and civic responsibility in young people through these experiences. In addition, Vera supports Meals on Wheels and serves as Treasurer, further demonstrating her commitment to community service.

Sharon Fighera: Sharon was nominated for her strong community contributions through the Ingham Lions Club, where she played a key role in reinstating the Lions Sportstar of the Year Awards and formal presentation night. She also serves on the Women in Sugar committee and was instrumental in delivering a successful Women in Sugar Conference in Ingham. Over the years, Sharon has held executive roles with various local sporting clubs, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to community and sport.

Robert Muller: Robert was nominated for his decades of volunteer service, particularly to the Mt Fox community. A long-standing member of the Rural Fire Brigade and Local Area Warden, he has assisted in countless emergency responses on the Mt Fox Range — clearing fallen trees, helping stranded motorists, and supporting residents and travellers during severe weather events. At 78, Robert continues to serve with humility and resilience. His commitment over many years has protected lives and property while strengthening the safety and wellbeing of Mt Fox and the wider community.

Rina Zatta: Rina was nominated for over 20 years of dedicated volunteer service with the Herbert River Athletics Club. Throughout this time, she has taken on numerous key roles, including Grounds Person, Catering Convenor, Coaching Coordinator, Competition Director, and Club Secretary, freely giving her time and energy. Her contributions range from maintaining equipment and facilities to preparing fresh fruit for athletes and mentoring young competitors. In 2025, Rina was named “Club Person of the Year” and, alongside Brenda Oats, received the inaugural Recognition of Service Award at the Lions Club of Ingham Sportstar of the Year Awards. Her commitment, reliability, and genuine care for members make her an invaluable part of the club.

Community Event of the Year Award
2025 Ingham Maraka Festival by the Ingham Maraka Festival Committee: The October-staged 65th Ingham Maraka Festival brought together large crowds of residents, families, community groups, and visitors for a vibrant week of festivities. The festival’s purpose is to celebrate the spirit, culture, and resilience of the Hinchinbrook community — a mission that carried even greater meaning as the region continued to recover from the significant weather event earlier in the year. The program offered joy, connection, and relief at a time when the community needed it most.

2025 Sportstar Awards by the Ingham Lions Club: The Ingham Lions Club Sportstar of the Year Awards were reinvigorated in 2025, featuring nominees across six categories. Around 150 people attended the Awards Presentation evening, with guest speaker and three-time Olympian Suzy Batkovic delivering an inspiring address. The event also celebrated our Service to Sport winner, Lenny Chiesa, who went on to win the Queensland Service to Sport Award. Beyond the awards, the Ingham Lions Club played a vital role in the community’s flood recovery efforts.

Shire Young Citizen Award
Gemma Di Bella: Gemma served as Gilroy Santa Maria College School Captain in 2025 and received the Deus Caritas Christian Living Award, generously donating her prize money to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. She assisted with the inaugural Hinchinbrook Sustainable Pasture Group two-day event in 2025 and helped at the cattle stall barbecue during the Ingham Show. Gemma is also an active member of the local Young Vinnies group.

Keldon Fletcher: Keldon was nominated for his academic achievements and leadership at school and in the community. He has attained the highest rank in the Emergency Services Cadet Program and is recognised as one of Queensland’s leading cadets. In addition, Keldon was selected for the Youth Change Makers program, representing Ingham State High School at the state level. He actively supports local theatre groups, Blue Light events, and fundraising for the Emergency Services Cadets. Keldon also played a vital role during the January–February 2025 flooding event. As Area Warden for Lucinda, he assisted the Local Disaster Management Group, delivered food and resources to isolated residents, and maintained the radio communication network for the Lower Herbert. He provided essential updates to the Lower Herbert Subgroup and worked tirelessly to support his community during a time of crisis.

Victoria Velton: Victoria was nominated for their active involvement in community projects, including the Ingham Theatre Group, Carols, local festivals, and as a Maraka Queen contestant in 2025. They received a journalism award for their reporting on the February 2025 flood event and works closely with charity groups. Victoria also promotes healthy lifestyles through initiatives such as Parkrun, tree planting days and horse riding.

Shire Citizen Award
Janice Carr: Jan was nominated for her outstanding contributions to the community, particularly through the Ingham Family History Association, where she was instrumental in its formalisation and has held every executive role since inception. She was also a founding member of the Herbert River Museum Gallery Inc., serving as Treasurer and Secretary, and is a long-time member of the Ingham Patchwork Group. Jan has worked tirelessly for every group she’s been part of, from schools to history associations.

Travis Cauchi: Nominated for his support to the people of Ingham during the February 2025 flood event. He provided clear, informative, and professional reports at all hours, helping residents understand what was happening and what to expect. His calm and professional broadcasts kept the community up to date with the evolving weather situation.

Carina Chesson: Carina was nominated for her contributions during the February 2025 flood event, providing voluntary assistance to those sheltering at the Cyclone Shelter at Ingham State High School. She sourced towels, sheets, blankets, bedding, and other essential supplies for many people. Carina’s caring nature, positivity, and upbeat attitude greatly boosted morale for those who had lost everything, helping ease stress and provide comfort during a time of crisis. Her efforts took some of the burden away from those affected and ensured support was available where it was most needed.

Leonardo Chiesa: Lenny was nominated for more than 50 years of voluntary service to the community through Rugby League and Surf Lifesaving. Awarded the Order of Australia Medal for his contributions, he continues to mentor young lifesavers training for their Bronze Medallions, patrols beaches regularly, and has coached club members to compete successfully at national level. In 2025, Lenny was named Lions Club, North Queensland and Queensland Sportstar of the Year – Service to Sport and received the Clive Hammond Award for North Barrier Branch Surf Lifesaving Queensland.

Daniel Cordner: Dan was nominated for his outstanding assistance to the community during the 2025 flood event. He was instrumental in coordinating SES and disaster management efforts across Hinchinbrook Shire, working tirelessly and putting the community above personal interests throughout the crisis. With communications down and resources limited, Dan was one of only three SES members covering the entire Lower Herbert area. He performed flood boat operations during the day and, in his ‘downtime,’ coordinated disaster response for the wider district. His dedication and countless hours in both operational and leadership roles were critical to the community’s safety and recovery.

Sam Cosentino: Sam was nominated for his significant contributions through more than 27 years of volunteering with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Throughout this time, he has demonstrated guidance, honesty, sincerity, and goodwill to both fellow volunteers and community members. Sam always goes the extra mile to assist anyone in need, freely giving his time. He collects and delivers furniture for those in need and makes himself available during floods, cyclones, and times of crisis to support the entire community. Sam has also contributed to building and renovation projects at St Patrick’s Parish, Ingham.

Madeleine D’Urso: Madeleine was nominated for her significant contributions, particularly through the Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook, where she has strengthened its presence at major local events including the Ingham Show, Maraka Festival, Italian Festival, Christmas celebrations, and Tasman Turtle. She also served for many years on the Catholic Debutante Ball Committee and continues to support St Patrick’s Parish as a reader and Eucharistic Minister. Madeleine proudly shares her crafts, cooking, and sewing at the Annual Show. In addition, she played a key role in Rotary’s community flood response, coordinating the 2025 flood relief efforts in Hinchinbrook by helping distribute $250 relief cards and essential goods to affected families, and supporting both short-term and long-term recovery across the region.

Vera Di Bella: Vera was nominated for sharing her musical talent with the community by organising regular student and personal performances at local nursing homes, bringing residents joy, connection, and entertainment. She freely volunteers her time coordinating students, rehearsals, and events, instilling empathy and civic responsibility in young people through these experiences. In addition, Vera supports Meals on Wheels and serves as Treasurer, further demonstrating her commitment to community service.

Coral Gard: Nominated for her involvement in Coast Guard rescue operations, where she manages resources, fundraising, and administrative requirements to ensure a volunteer marine rescue service operates from Lucinda for the boating community. Coral also serves as President of the Lower Herbert Museum Gallery, overseeing management, operations, fundraising, promotion, and community engagement. In addition, she coordinates Lower Herbert ANZAC and Remembrance Day events annually in liaison with the RSL.

Sharon Fighera: Sharon was nominated for her strong community contributions through the Ingham Lions Club, where she played a key role in reinstating the Lions Sportstar of the Year Awards and formal presentation night. She also serves on the Women in Sugar committee and was instrumental in delivering a successful Women in Sugar Conference in Ingham. Over the years, Sharon has held executive roles with various local sporting clubs, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to community and sport.

As a one-off recognition, Council has introduced a new category to recognise those who went above and beyond to support the Hinchinbrook community during the January and February 2025 floods.

2025 Flood Hero Recognition recipients
Evlyn Bailey: Evlyn opened the Halifax CWA Hall to enable the recovery assistance teams to help assist the community. She was at the hall to meet residents while the services were there for 6 weeks, making them feel welcome and relaxed so that they could speak to the service staff. Evlyn also coordinated the delivery of much needed cleaning items by working closely with Deputy Mayor Mary Brown to ensure there was sufficient supplies on hand. Evlyn delivered hot meals door to door after getting them delivered by helicopter.  She was present as a friendly face at the CWA Hall for the community members and this was all done on a volunteer basis.

Victor Bligh: Victor assisted in establishing and operating the Halifax CWA Hall as a response and recovery centre during the flood. He supported community members in need by helping distribute food, water, and essential items. Victor also undertook manual tasks, including setting up and packing goods, to keep the centre running smoothly.

Robert Bonassi: During the February 2025 flood event, Robert drove around the Bambaroo area checking on residents’ welfare. He and his wife Leanne took two stranded travellers into their home for four nights after their car stalled in floodwaters. Robert also organised for the travellers to cross Ollera Creek to reach Townsville and later drove to Cairns to deliver the remaining possessions salvaged from their car. In addition, he delivered bread and milk to those in need and liaised with Crystal Creek Caravan Park to secure fuel for the community. Robert offered help wherever he could, showing remarkable generosity and commitment during the crisis.

Kerri-Ann Burnell: Kerri-Ann volunteered her time during the 2025 flood event in the Lower Herbert area, using her private vessel to transport supplies and check on the wellbeing of community members between Macknade and Halifax while flood bound. Her efforts ensured essential needs were met and residents felt supported during a challenging time.

Ian Cameron: Ian dedicated many hours to flood preparation and response through SES activities, even though his own property was impacted. His efforts spanned multiple days, assisting those most in need.

Daniel Castorina: Daniel, as manager of Lucinda Bulk Sugar Port at QSL, ensured the isolated community of Lucinda was supported throughout the event by supplying fuel, resources, and machinery under his control. He assisted businesses and residents in their time of need and made sure bulk fuel arriving by sea was transported through floodwaters to resupply Halifax. Daniel went above and beyond by engaging with local disaster management to provide any services possible through his resources at Lucinda. Daniel, his staff, and his partner were all actively involved in checking on and assisting members of the public throughout the 2025 flood event.

Travis Cauchi: Nominated for his support to the people of Ingham during the February 2025 flood event. He provided clear, informative, and professional reports at all hours, helping residents understand what was happening and what to expect. His calm and professional broadcasts kept the community up to date with the evolving weather situation.

Carina Chesson: Carina was nominated for her contributions during the February 2025 flood event, providing voluntary assistance to those sheltering at the Cyclone Shelter at Ingham State High School. She sourced towels, sheets, blankets, bedding, and other essential supplies for many people. Carina’s caring nature, positivity, and upbeat attitude greatly boosted morale for those who had lost everything, helping ease stress and provide comfort during a time of crisis. Her efforts took some of the burden away from those affected and ensured support was available where it was most needed.

Daniel Cordner: Dan played a pivotal role in coordinating SES and disaster management efforts across Hinchinbrook Shire during the 2025 flooding event. He worked tirelessly, putting the community above personal interests throughout the crisis. As one of only three SES members covering the entire Lower Herbert area, Dan undertook critical operational duties, including flood boat operations during the day, while using his ‘downtime’ to coordinate disaster response for the wider district.

Madeleine D’Urso: Madeleine played a significant role in Rotary’s community flood response, coordinating the organisation’s 2025 flood relief efforts in Hinchinbrook. She helped distribute $250 relief cards and essential goods to affected families and supported both short-term and long-term recovery efforts across the region.

Francis Debono: Francis left his own flood-affected family to volunteer with Ingham SES. He assisted with evacuations, sandbagging, and moving belongings to safety, dedicating long hours across multiple days to help residents prepare and respond.

Keldon Fletcher: Keldon played a vital role during the January–February 2025 flooding event. As Area Warden for Lucinda, he assisted the Local Disaster Management Group, delivered food and resources to isolated residents, and maintained the radio communication network for the Lower Herbert. He provided essential updates to the Lower Herbert Subgroup and worked tirelessly to support his community during a time of crisis.

Andrew Giliberto: Andrew played a vital role in Lower Herbert’s flood response and recovery, ensuring access to critical pharmaceutical supplies. He provided emergency services with Starlink connectivity when communications failed and hosted QLD Fire, Swiftwater, and SES teams at his pharmacy. Andrew also helped coordinate efforts when SES leadership shifted back to Ingham.

Halifax Hotel’s Joe and Luke: Joe and Luke at Halifax Hotel provided critical support by housing and feeding emergency services personnel, including police, swift water technicians, firefighters, and SES volunteers. They also accommodated evacuated Macknade locals. Despite their business being inundated and Luke sustaining an injury, they continued preparing meals and lifting spirits throughout the crisis.

Ingham Lions Club: Ingham Lions Club supplied food and goods to the community through pop-up sausage sizzles in Lannercost Street, the CBD, and at the Recovery Centre. The Club also donated food to the Recovery Centre and supported the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre. In addition, Ingham Lions Club assisted with the Lions International Adopt a Family grant, providing up to $1,000 to each qualifying family to help with recovery.

Russell Kealy: A local electrician in the Lucinda and Lower Herbert area, Russell went above and beyond to help residents during and after the flood. Despite water entering his own home, he spent hours repairing generators to ensure access to fuel and never charged for his services.

Paul Longbottom: Paul provided invaluable support during the extended flood event, contributing to preparation, response, resupply, and SES headquarters management. He volunteered countless hours over many days to assist the community.

Jeff McMurray: Jeff managed fuel supply distribution throughout the event to ensure the community received allocated petrol and diesel quantities after bulk fuel was delivered to Halifax for community use. This role was critical in managing limited supplies—a challenging task given high community emotions and severe weather impacts. Jeff also carried out repairs and maintenance on generators and other equipment, drawing on his mechanical expertise. All of this was done as a volunteer.

Robert Morris: Robert gave selfless service during the flood, assisting with coordination of the Ingham SES response from headquarters. He supported both local members and deployed teams, even while personally impacted by the event.

Don Pollock: Don helped neighbours during the February 2025 flood event, driving to town to get food and fuel for generators. Don checked on a neighbour whose partner was away at work at the time, also checking on everyone nearby to see they required any help. He continues to check in on a neighbour, by cutting their grass and feeding their animals, as they are still unable to live in their home.

Greg Sexton: Greg worked alongside Luke in Taylors Beach, providing key disaster response information, welfare checks, and hands-on assistance with clean-up efforts. Like Luke, Greg was personally affected but remained committed to helping others.

Luke Shepherdson: Luke made outstanding contributions in Taylors Beach, conducting welfare checks, sharing critical information, and helping with extensive clean-up efforts. Despite being impacted and isolated himself, he stepped up to support others.

Gio Tantalo: Gio demonstrated exceptional leadership and resilience, organising helicopter and boat deliveries of essential items and coordinating evacuations for those in need. He worked tirelessly for countless hours to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Halifax and surrounding communities.

Luke Venables: Luke provided essential medical resupply services, ensuring medications reached those in need. He also assisted with storm damage repairs and tarping properties once roads reopened.

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