Current Award Recipients

Nominees – Andrew Ballin, Susan Jerkic, Jade Kelly, Yvette Kelly, Kellie Lawry and Frank Nucifora

For his outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment to the Burdekin, the 2026 Citizen of the Year Award is presented to FRANK NUCIFORA.

Frank’s life of service spans more than six decades, marked by extraordinary dedication to his community, his church, and the Rotary Club of Ayr.

After migrating from Sicily in the 1950s, Frank helped establish several long-standing local businesses, contributing to the growth and strength of the Burdekin.

Frank is a valued parishioner who has spent decades supporting his church through hands-on assistance at events, barbecues and community activities.

As a dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Ayr for 60 years, Frank has served as President, Treasurer and long-standing Foundation Chair, and has twice been recognised as a Paul Harris Fellow. He continues to support Rotary’s annual initiatives, including the Duck Race, local phone book distribution, and the delivery of Rotary Christmas cakes to charities.

Over six decades, Frank has contributed to every major Rotary project and event, from barbecues and fundraisers to youth programs, float building and international humanitarian efforts.

He has also been instrumental in major projects such as Meals on Wheels, the development of Plantation Park, the Living Lagoon at the front of the Burdekin Theatre, and Rotary’s international aid programs.

At 86 years of age, Frank still attends work daily and remains one of Rotary’s most active and generous volunteers, continuing to serve even while recovering from injury.

His leadership, generosity and quiet strength have left an enduring legacy across Rotary and the wider Burdekin community. Frank truly embodies the spirit of service and perfectly represents what it means to be our Citizen of the Year.

Frank, congratulations on being awarded 2026 Citizen of the Year.

Each year the Citizen of the Year is awarded a piece of art.  This year Frank is being presented with a framed aerial photograph of our iconic Burdekin Bridge which was taken by Mark McDonald of Burdekin Drones.

Nominees - 2025 Burdekin Catholic High School Leaders - Piper Grogan, Harrison, Lammon, Nicholas Pengelly, Drea Piotto, Christiana Bugeja, Cecillia Cason, Grace Ogomeni, Sam Perina, Grayson Potter-Geitz, Cruz Torkington and Briella Wassmuth

Nominees:

• Flexi QLD - 30th Anniversary Celebration – represented by Tenielle Ready and Gemma Delatorre
• Home Hill State High School - 2025 Ag Precinct Community Open Day represented by Sharon O'Neill, Louise Nicholas, Kim Andersen & Michelle Musumeci
• Burdekin Catholic High School Leaders – 2025 Stand Up Sleep Out - represented by Piper Grogan, Harrison Lammon, Nicholas Pengelly, Drea Piotto

Nominees - Trevor Elton, Robyn Hewson, Grace Ogomeni, Grayson Potter-Geitz, John Power and Cruz Torkington

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the community through his volunteer work in 2025, the 2026 Volunteer of the Year Award is presented to TREVOR ELTON

Trevor played a pivotal role in reviving the Home Hill Community Club, transforming it from near closure into a vibrant and financially secure hub for the community.

Through his leadership, the club secured successful grants that delivered major upgrades, including a new green, full hall carpeting, air-conditioning, and a range of aesthetic improvements.

Trevor also rebuilt club membership to more than 40 active players, introduced open days, and managed the club’s social media to reconnect the community and encourage new involvement.

Today, the club hosts a wide range of weekly activities, including fitness classes, craft groups, bingo, social bowls, and other community events.

Trevor’s vision has restored pride, inspired volunteers, and created a welcoming space for people of all ages. With the support of his wife, Judy, his tireless efforts have rekindled community spirit well beyond the bowling green.

Congratulations, Trevor.

In recognition for his outstanding contribution to the community through his volunteer work in 2025, the 2026 Volunteer of the Year ACHIEVEMENT AWARD is presented to JOHN POWER.

John has given an astounding four decades of service to the Home Hill Golf Club, continuing a proud family tradition of involvement and dedication.

He serves as the club’s unpaid greenkeeper, maintaining the course to an exceptional standard. John personally oversees the upkeep of the greens, fairways and surrounds, and is also responsible for maintaining all club machinery.

His work has been instrumental to the club’s ongoing success and sustainability, delivering professional-quality course conditions year-round.

John’s commitment is extraordinary. Each week, he mows the greens three to four times, maintains the surrounds twice weekly, and continually monitors turf health. He proactively addresses pest issues and organises treatments, saving the club significant time and cost.

Beyond the golf club, John has volunteered with Rotary for more than 15 years, including serving in leadership roles as a committee member and secretary. He has also volunteered with Meals on Wheels in the Burdekin for over 15 years, supporting some of our most vulnerable community members.

Never seeking recognition, John consistently demonstrates unwavering dedication, reliability and community spirit. He tackles demanding tasks in all conditions with the skill, pride and passion that define his commitment to both his club and the wider community.

Congratulations John!

Nominees: Cecillia Cason and Grace Ogomeni

For her outstanding achievements and contribution to the local music community, The winner of the 2026 Junior Cultural Award is CECILLIA CASON.

Cecilia is an exceptional multi-instrumentalist of the highest calibre and a long-standing member of the Burdekin Brass Band. She performs on Flugel Horn and Tenor Horn with the Thuringowa Brass Band and Townsville Brass and regularly features as a soloist and ensemble member at school and community events, including orchestral performances for Burdekin Singers musicals.

In recognition of her remarkable sporting achievement both locally and internationally, The 2026 Senior Sportsperson of the Year Award is presented to KARIN THORBURN.

Karin is an extraordinary endurance athlete whose remarkable achievement, unmatched determination and ongoing contribution to the running community have set her apart as a true leader in her sport.  Her dedication, both on the course and behind the scenes makes her an inspiration across North Queensland and beyond.

Karin was the recipient of the 2025 Sporting Excellence Award at the NQ Sportstar Awards, held in October in Townsville.

She was the first Australian to complete 500 ‘official’ marathons and successfully completed the Magnetic 30 in 30 Challenge, running 30 marathons in 30 consecutive days. She has achieved a Six Star Major Marathon status, completing world-renowned events in Boston, Tokyo, London, New York, Chicago, and Berlin.

Karin serves as an event coordinator for marathon events across Far North Queensland and is a dedicated volunteer and active participant at Plantation Parkrun.

Congratulations Karin!

Nominees - Grace Ogomeni and Luke Potter-Geitz

In recognition of his many sporting achievements throughout 2025, the 2026 Junior Sportsperson of the Year Award is presented to LUKE POTTER-GEITZ

Luke has delivered an exceptional year full of sporting achievements, excelling across multiple disciplines while also serving as a positive mentor and role model for younger athletes within his school and the community.

Luke was named the Lloyd Mann Memorial Open Age Champion, Male Senior Sportsperson of the Year, and Home Hill Sportsperson of the Year.

At Home Hill State High School, he was awarded Age Champion in Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics, and went on to represent the school at the Burdekin Secondary School Carnivals in all three disciplines. He was also awarded the Burdekin Secondary Schools Age Champion for Athletics.

After being selected in the Burdekin Secondary Schools Athletics Team, Luke earned a place in the North Queensland Athletics Team for High Jump, competing in Townsville in October.

He continued his impressive year by representing North Queensland in High Jump and Triple Jump at the 2025 Australian All Schools Championships in Melbourne in December.

Congratulations Luke.

2026 Lifetime Service Awards 

The next category is the Lifetime Service Awards, which recognise the significant voluntary contributions made by members of our shire to community organisations. These are individuals who generously give their time to help others, without expectation of payment, and who have devoted countless hours of service over many years.

We are incredibly fortunate in our region to have volunteers of this calibre. Through their selfless commitment, they have enriched countless community groups, and these awards are a fitting recognition of the lasting impact they have made.

This year, two outstanding members of our community have met the criteria for the Silver Award, recognising 30 years or more of voluntary service.

We will invite each recipient to the stage individually to accept their award.

SILVER AWARDS

The first recipient of the Silver Lifetime Service Award is ROBYN HEWSON

Robyn has made an extraordinary contribution to our community through decades of dedicated volunteer service.

As a Lifetime Member and volunteer of the Burdekin Water Festival for 38 years, Robyn has been instrumental in sustaining and enhancing one of the region's most iconic celebrations. Robyn's exceptional commitment extends to the Junior and Senior Ambassador Program, where she plays a pivotal role in mentoring participants.

Robyn has been a Life Member and volunteer of the Burdekin Show for more than 34 years, supporting event coordination, logistics and community engagement.

Robyn has also volunteered with Burdekin Relay for Life for over 20 years, helping to raise awareness and vital funds for cancer research and support services.

For the past 10 years, she has been a valued volunteer with the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival, assisting with event set-up, guest services and cultural promotion.

She has volunteered with Burdekin Tourism for 11 years, promoting local attractions and supporting regional tourism initiatives, and also contributed to the planning and delivery of the Burdekin Fashion Bash in 2014.

In addition, Robyn continues her ongoing volunteer work at the Lower Burdekin Home for the Aged – Home Hill Hostel, providing companionship and support to elderly residents.

Congratulations, Robyn.

Our second Silver Lifetime Service Award recipient is: MARYANN PETERSEN

Maryann has been a Board Member of Flexi Queensland since its founding more than 30 years ago, and has played a significant role in the organisation’s growth and development. Her contribution has helped deliver three transport buses for clients, three supported living homes, and a dedicated hub building where clients can socialise, build skills and find community.

In recognition of her outstanding service, this hub has recently been renamed in her honour and is now known as “The Petersen Hangout.”

Maryann has also served as a Board Member of the Burdekin Brass Band for over 10 years.

She is a volunteer First Aid Officer with the Burdekin BMX Club, assisted in the establishment of a Girl Guides clubhouse in the Burdekin, volunteered at numerous Eisteddfods over the years, and is regularly involved in community fundraising events.

Congratulations, Maryann.

There are three recipients of the Gold Lifetime Service Awards this year. The criteria for the Gold Award is an impressive 40 years or more of voluntary service.

We will invite each recipient to the stage individually to accept their award.

GOLD AWARDS

The first Gold Lifetime Service Award recipient is: DOLORES DROGUET 

Dolores has dedicated nearly five decades of her life to volunteer service within the Burdekin community.

At 93 years of age, Dolores continues to volunteer three days a week at the St Vincent de Paul Op Shop in Ayr, where she has served faithfully for an incredible 47 years.

She has also volunteered with the Burdekin Uniting Church Cuppa Club for 23 years, and with Ethnic Community Care Link for 23 years, supporting local multicultural and senior residents.

Dolores is a long-term volunteer with the Lower Burdekin Home for the Aged Society, providing ongoing support to both residents and staff.

In recognition of her extraordinary service, she received the Premier’s Award for Queensland Seniors in 2007 and 2008, as well as the International Year of Volunteers Award in 2001.

She also dedicated more than 200 hours to the creation of a commemorative mural celebrating the passing of the Olympic Flame through the Burdekin in 2000.

Congratulations, Dolores.

The next recipient of the Gold Lifetime Service Award is JOHN POWER

John has been a dedicated member of the Home Hill Golf Club for over 40 years serving as their unpaid greenkeeper as well as maintaining the club’s machinery. He is also a member of the Rotary Club, serving as a volunteer for over 15 years as a committee member and several of those years as Secretary. John has also volunteered at Meals on Wheels in Burdekin for over 15 years.

Congratulations John!

Our final recipient of the Gold Lifetime Service Award is FRANK NUCIFORA

Frank has been a dedicated Rotary Club of Ayr member for 60 years, and in that time has served as President, Treasurer and long‑standing Foundation Chair. He has received the highest recognition from Rotary by receiving the Paul Harris Fellow award, not once but twice. At 86, he still attends work daily and remains one of Rotary’s most active and generous volunteers.

Congratulations Frank!

In recognition for her many years of service to performing arts in the Burdekin, the winner of the 2026 Senior Cultural ACHIEVEMENT AWARD is presented to CHERYL PLATT.

Cheryl has demonstrated remarkable dedication to the performing arts across the Burdekin, contributing decades of service to local music, theatre and cultural organisations. Her long-standing commitment, leadership and passion have strengthened multiple community groups and enriched artistic opportunities for people of all ages.

Cheryl has been a member of the Friends of the Burdekin Theatre for over 15 years, where she currently serves as Secretary and Volunteer Coordinator.

She is also a long-standing member of the Home Hill Choral Society, volunteering as Musical Director for more than 15 years, while continuing to perform as part of the group.

In addition, Cheryl is an active member of the Eisteddfod Association of North Queensland, where she serves as a Delegate, Registrar and Vice President. She is also the current Secretary of the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod Committee, a position she has proudly held since 2017.

Congratulations Cheryl!

Nominees: Debra Ferraris, Larry Hudson, Cheryl Platt and Osborne State School

For his exceptional commitment and ongoing service to the local music community, the 2026 Senior Cultural Award is presented to LARRY HUDSON.

Larry has been a devoted and influential member of the Burdekin Brass Band for more than two decades, demonstrating exceptional commitment, humility and service to the local music community.

His dedication is evidenced by an almost perfect attendance record over the last 20 years. He is also an active and reliable member of the Thuringowa Brass Band in Townsville, supporting rehearsals and performances regularly travelling as far afield as Cardwell and Ingham to participate.

As long‑standing President, Larry has been central to the Burdekin Brass Band’s stability and growth, strengthening its finances through fundraising, sponsorships and grant success. He has overseen major hall improvements and championed the annual Burdekin Brass Live concerts, now a key feature of the local arts calendar.

Leading by example he never hesitates to take on practical tasks, transporting equipment to performances, coordinating playouts, and participating in working bees. His influence and tireless efforts have been so central to the band’s identity and success that many affectionately refer to it as “Larry’s Band.”

Larry’s greatest legacy is the opportunities he has created for young musicians, supporting them to access workshops, ensembles and development pathways they may not have otherwise reached.

Despite his remarkable contributions, Larry consistently avoids praise and prefers to spotlight the achievements of others. His humble and selfless approach embodies the true spirit of community service. Quite simply, the Burdekin Brass Band would not exist without Larry’s unwavering dedication, leadership and passion.

Congratulations Larry!

Nominees: Anthony Drage and Louise Nicholas

For his outstanding dedication and commitment to environmental work, the 2026 Environment Award is presented to ANTHONY DRAGE

Anthony is a dedicated volunteer and long-serving member of Lower Burdekin Landcare, where he holds the position of Nursery Manager.

He is responsible for the successful operation of the nursery, which has seen significant improvements under his care. These include the installation of new greenhouses, upgraded watering systems, and enhanced plant displays with accessible walkways.

Anthony works tirelessly seven days a week, ensuring plant stock is well-watered, thriving, and free from pests and disease. He also generously shares his extensive knowledge, assisting visitors with their gardening needs.

His expertise is widely respected, with local government and commercial organisations regularly seeking his advice on planting requirements.

Anthony has also shared his knowledge and passion with local schools, supported community nursery projects, and helped create thriving plant ecosystems that inspire learning. Through his selfless service, he has earned deep respect across the Burdekin community.

Congratulations, Anthony.