Nominations for the 2025 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards have now closed and a full list of nominees will be published shortly.
Winners will be announced at the Ballina Shire Council Australia Day 2025 ceremony, to be held at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre on Sunday 26 January at 9am.
Each year, we invite nominations for outstanding community members who might otherwise go unnoticed and for those who dedicate themselves to community activities, sports, the environment, or the arts.
The 2025 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards provide an opportunity to honour and recognise these unsung heroes. These exceptional individuals and groups may not seek the limelight, but their contributions are remarkable.
Nominations are open to Australian citizens who live or work in Ballina Shire.
There are eight nomination categories:
The 2025 Citizen of the Year will be selected from all nominees across the various categories.
Australia Day 2024 at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre was a special occasion to honour our local heroes, welcome new Australian citizens, and celebrate all that is wonderful about living in our beautiful Ballina Shire.
The official Australia Day ceremony featured a Welcome to Country by Aunty Julia Paden, captivating performances by the Ballina Players and Lennox Beach Line Dancers, a heartwarming citizenship ceremony, and the much-anticipated announcement of the Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards, with forty nominations recognised across various categories.
Rex and Di Farrell, 2023 Citizens of the Year, passed the baton by announcing the 2024 Citizen of the Year, ISA World Para Surfing Champion Joel Taylor.
Joel Taylor, a Lennox local since birth, has profoundly impacted the world of surfing and beyond. Originally a professional bodyboarder in his teens and twenties, Joel's career took an unexpected turn at the age of 21 due to a spinal cord injury. However, his passion for the ocean never waned, leading him to embrace para surfing after two decades.
Within just 12 months of his return to the water, Joel achieved remarkable success. He secured the Australian Para Surfing Title, earning him a spot in the ISA World Para Surfing Championships. His resilience and determination culminated in him being crowned the 2023 ISA World Para Surfing Champion in the Men’s Prone 1 Division. This achievement is not just a personal victory but an inspiration to many.
Joel's contributions extend beyond these achievements. As the founder of Unite Clothing in 2004, he has been actively supporting bodyboarding worldwide. His entrepreneurial spirit shines through this brand, which has thrived for nearly two decades. Joel's commitment to promoting bodyboarding associations fosters a deep love for the ocean within the community.
As Alstonville High’s 2023 School Captain, Lucy Trease embodies leadership and dedication. In addition to her studies, Lucy co-runs a sourdough bakery with her brothers, providing bread to evacuation centres during the 2022 floods.
An active volunteer, Lucy readily volunteers her time to support younger students in debating teams and the Model United Nations Assembly. She has also coached her brother’s soccer team for seven-years and was actively engaged in school sports, particularly swimming.
Recognised as a NSW Woman of the Year Candidate in 2023, her contributions as a coach, mentor, and leader highlight her remarkable impact on her peers and local community.
Imani Hannaford and Tayla Kennedy were the other Young Citizen of the Year Award nominees.
Dr MacDonald’s distinguished medical career, spanning the Royal Australian Navy (1979-1986), general practice in Ballina (2016-2020), and a significant tenure as Visiting Medical Officer at Ballina District Hospital (1986-2016), showcases his steadfast commitment to healthcare.
As Medical Staff Council Chairman, he championed staff increases and equipment upgrades, enhancing patient care. His work with the Department of Veterans Affairs provided unwavering support for veterans' welfare.
Beyond healthcare, Dr. MacDonald's extensive community involvement includes Southern Cross School, Ballina RSL Sub-Branch and the Ballina Naval Museum.
Recognised as a Life Member of the Ballina Seagulls Football Club for his dedicated care to players, his diverse contributions illustrate a deep community spirit. A true advocate for healthcare and community, continuously supporting individuals in adversity.
For over three decades, Yvonne Scarrabellotti has been a driving force in the Northern Rivers community, particularly through her significant involvement in the Ballina and Kyogle Country Women's Association (CWA). Her leadership roles, including President and Vice-President, have been instrumental in shaping the CWA's impact in the Northern Rivers and across NSW. In 2023, Yvonne was recognised for her unwavering dedication with a State Vice Presidency and a prestigious Life Membership of CWA.
Yvonne's contributions extend to helping during natural disasters, particularly the 2022 floods. She has been pivotal in directing CWA's efforts to greatly benefit the community, contributing to Ballina SES, Marine Rescue, Mary’s Place, Hot Meal Centre, and initiatives like Education Grants, Riding for the Disabled, Biala, and Human Nature - young mental health support.
Yvonne's community involvement is far-reaching and long-term, including work with Ballina Probus, Ballina Innerwheel, Ballina View Club, and St Vincent De Paul in Kyogle. Her extensive and long-standing community involvement marks her legacy in the Northern Rivers, making her a symbol of dedicated leadership and service.
Brenda Zakaras, Colin Lee, Dianne Thompson, Dr Meng Yew Yeo, Jeffrey Gibbs, John Gordon, Veda Dorrough, and Warwick Manning were the other Senior Citizen of the Year Award nominees.
Ivan Leahy, a resident of Ballina Shire since 2000, has been a beacon of humanitarian service and community welfare. His commitment to helping those in need extends across local and international borders, showcasing his global perspective on aid and empathy. In the local community, Ivan has served as the chair of the Ballina Hope Haven Women’s Refuge, where he provided invaluable support to residents escaping domestic violence. His leadership and guidance over six years as chairperson and ongoing contributions as a committee member have been pivotal in the functioning and success of the refuge.
Ivan's role in community service doesn’t stop there. He has volunteered at the Five Loaves Mobile Soup Kitchen and the Ballina ADRA Op Shop. He demonstrates his commitment to providing for the less fortunate at these establishments through serving meals, coordinating volunteers, or ensuring efficient operations.
On an international scale, Ivan is the volunteer operations manager of Kenya Health, a charity that has been providing healthcare in Kenya since 2013. His work managing the charity, overseeing operations, fundraising, and leading volunteer teams is a testament to his passion for global health and welfare.
Ivan's empathy and dedication are apparent in his response to local flooding victims and refugees, where he has extended his support and services. His ability to empathise and act in times of need reflects his character and commitment to humanitarian causes.
Ken Delany, a dedicated volunteer with Ballina Marine Rescue for over 15 years, has been a pillar of strength and reliability in the Ballina community. His journey in Marine Rescue started with a commitment to serve and protect, and over the years, he has risen through the ranks to hold various critical positions, including Assistant Training Officer, Treasurer, Deputy Commander, Acting Commander, and ultimately Commander.
Ken's expertise is not limited to his leadership roles. He is revered as one of the unit's best trainers, passing on his vast knowledge and experience to new volunteers. His ability to mentor and guide has been instrumental in maintaining high standards of operation and safety within the unit.
Ken has been a crucial liaison for the unit, maintaining robust connections with the Ballina Shire Council and all emergency services within the Ballina LGA. His communication skills and community relations have fostered cooperation and coordination, especially during emergencies.
A familiar voice on Paradise FM, Ken keeps the community informed every Sunday morning with updates on bar and safety advice, weather reports, and sea condition updates. This service is invaluable to the community, especially those navigating the waters.
Ken’s commitment to fundraising and securing grants has kept the unit operational. His efforts in organising events like the Ballina Boat Show have significantly raised funds necessary for the unit's sustenance. His dedication extends beyond his official roles. Ken is always available and on call, a testament to his devotion to the safety and well-being of the boating community. His enthusiasm and motivated leadership have earned him respect and admiration from his peers, volunteers, and the wider community.
The other nominees for the Volunteer of the Year are Daryl Holmes, David and Robii Harmon, Mark Ross, Nikki Powell, Robyne McGlashan, and Wardell Core.
Purple Friday, a collaborative initiative by Cherry St Sports Club and the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, focuses on raising awareness about domestic and family violence. Participants, including over 85 businesses and organisations, wear purple shirts every Friday, symbolising their stand against Domestic and Family Violence and promoting Respectful Relationships.
This community-wide initiative has quickly gained traction in Ballina Shire and expanded to other regions, effectively conveying a strong message of collaboration against a significant social issue. Originating from the Rotary Club's existing DV campaign, 'Purple Friday' showcases innovation and the power of wearable advocacy.
The campaign's effectiveness is bolstered by Cherry Street Sports Club and the Rotary Club's organisational excellence. Their efforts highlight a deep commitment to enhancing community well-being and safety.
The Domestic Violence Walk, spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, unites community members from all walks of life in a stand against Domestic and Family Violence. The walk, stretching from the Visitor Information Centre to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre, culminated with addresses from notable figures and entertainment by Ballina Coast High School students.
This event engages diverse community groups, raising awareness, challenging stereotypes, and empowering DV survivors. Participants come together as comrades with a common goal to combat DV. This collaborative effort extends to educational programs in schools, focusing on long-term behavioural change. The event's influence has grown significantly, evolving into a Rotary-led campaign in 16 countries.
This expansion showcases innovative approaches to addressing this critical social issue, reinforcing the event's importance in fostering community unity and action against Domestic and Family Violence.
The other nominees for Community Event of the Year: A Night of Elegance James Bond - Tracey Everingham Armstrong, Flood Recovery Temporary Housing - Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond, Future Fit our Dementia Community - Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance Inc, One Year On - Wardell Core.
Lennox Beach Line Dancing, which began in 2001 at Lennox Head Public School, has grown to become one of Australia's premier line dance clubs. This dynamic group achieved international recognition by winning several World Titles at the World Dance Masters Championship in 2023.
Their team, comprising 16 dancers aged 8 to 31, has shown remarkable talent and dedication, challenging traditional perceptions of line dancing.
In May 2022, they were honoured as 'Club of the Year' at the prestigious Australian Line Dance Championships. This success led to their representation of Team Australia at the World Dance Masters in Blackpool, England.
Nominated for this category last year, Lennox Beach Line Dancers' rise from a small school club to international acclaim showcases their growth, passion, and community connection journey.
The other nominees for the Sporting Achievement Award were John Hair, Ray Chapman, Rondah Stevenson, Scott Jenkins, Bailey Wilson, David Scott, Joel Taylor, and Naomi Doncaster.
Ballina Players has been vital to Ballina Shire's arts and culture scene for nearly seven decades. As a community-owned theatre, it thrives on the passion and dedication of its volunteers, many of whom have gone on to achieve greater accomplishments in the arts.
Ballina Players attracts around 6,000 attendees yearly, involving 150 cast members and 140 crew members. Ballina Players donates four performances from each production to local community groups for fundraising, showcasing their commitment to the community. Their extensive training covers acting, singing, costume design, stage management, audio, lighting, and set construction. Notably, their 2023 productions, including Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Mamma Mia, Avenue Q," and Beautiful, quickly sold out, earning widespread acclaim as regional theatre at its best.
Ballina Players not only nurtures artistic talent but also significantly contributes to the cultural richness of the Ballina Shire.
The other Arts/Cultural Award nominees were Ballina Contemporary Art Market and Ballina Shire Concert Band.
The Wildlife Twins – Bridget and Sophie Thompson
Bridget and Sophie Thompson, affectionately known as The Wildlife Twins, are fervently committed to wildlife conservation in the Northern Rivers region. Renowned for their wit and engaging presence, they captivate audiences at the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, community events, and schools. They skillfully emphasise the importance of native fauna and boost wildlife awareness.
Bridget's expertise in snake-catching and Sophie's proficiency in dog training offer a comprehensive approach to animal education. The Twins also work to dispel myths and fears about reptiles and snakes, educating the community about the value of all creatures, whether great, small, or slithery.
Their efforts underscore the message that every species is worth protecting.
The other nominees for the Environmental Award were Wardell Core and Annual Lennox Community Tree Planting Day.
We welcomed 17 new Australian Citizens from the USA, Bolivia, the UK, Italy, Thailand, Denmark, Brazil, the Philippines, and Vietnam as part of the ceremony.
Congratulations to the Ballina Shire Australia Day Award winners announced on Thursday 26 January 2023.
The General Manager
Ballina Shire Council
PO Box 450
Ballina NSW 2478
40 Cherry Street
Ballina NSW 2478
Opening Hours
8:15am - 4:30pm
Monday to Friday
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