Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Cassowary Coast's 2026 Australia Day Award recipients, recognised for their outstanding contributions to the community. Photo source: CCRC
Every community has its quiet achievers – the volunteers, sporting champions, environmental advocates and community leaders who give their time and energy to make the Cassowary Coast a better place to live.
Now Cassowary Coast Regional Council is calling on residents to nominate those deserving of recognition in the 2027 Australia Day Awards.
This year's awards celebrated an inspiring range of local achievements, with Cardwell Coast Guard Commander Ken English named 2026 Citizen of the Year for his outstanding voluntary service.
Ken played a pivotal role in rebuilding the Cardwell Coast Guard flotilla into a fully operational emergency service, contributing thousands of volunteer hours to maintenance, marine rescues, training and fundraising.
“I believe this award really reflects Cardwell and the people of the Coast Guard, past and present,” Ken said.
Young Citizen of the Year Caleb Wodzislawski was recognised for his volunteer work in Innisfail, particularly with Riverfest, and his involvement in Council's Youth Advisory Committee.
Other recipients included Lifetime Contribution Award winner Margaret Dineen, Sportsperson of the Year Kodi Worth and the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch, recognised with the Community Group Award.
The Tully Mill 100 Celebration was named Community Event/Project of the Year, recognising the efforts of those who helped celebrate a century of local sugar industry history.
Mayor Teresa Millwood said the awards provided an opportunity to thank those making a difference.
“These awards are about recognising dedication, community spirit and service. They remind us of the extraordinary contributions being made across the Cassowary Coast and give us the chance to say thank you to the people and groups helping our region thrive,” Cr Millwood said.
The 2027 awards feature seven categories recognising community service, sporting achievement, environmental stewardship and outstanding local initiatives.
Council is encouraging residents to nominate, with just one to five short written responses required, depending on the category. No lengthy submissions or fancy writing are needed – simply explain why your nominee deserves recognition.
Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 27th November 2026, with the awards ceremony at Mission Beach Resort on Friday 22nd January 2027.
To nominate, visit cassowarycoast.smartygrants.com.au or contact Council on 1300 763 903.
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