CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Jessica Weimar

Jessica Weimar is a dedicated volunteer in the Theodore community, actively contributing to various local organisations and initiatives since her family moved there eight years ago. She plays key roles in multiple committees, including the Theodore P&C Trail Ride, Swim Club, and local football associations, where she coaches young athletes. Her leadership fosters community pride and unity, with her efforts significantly impacting youth development, water safety, and family engagement through inclusive activities. Jessica often addresses community needs with great competency and passion. Her unwavering commitment and selflessness have enriched the lives of many.

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Ava Haine

Ava Haine is an exceptional young woman committed to community advocacy and support. As an ambassador for the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, she promotes youth engagement and STEM education. She participated in the Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) Girls in Resource Leadership Skills (GIRLS) Program, where she received mentorship and served as Master of Ceremonies for a state event. Ava also engaged in AFS Global programs focused on sustainable development and mentored older adults in digital literacy. She won the Country to Canberra competition, advocating for rural equality and women's leadership, and co-chaired the Australian Association for Adolescent Health National Conference to address rural health needs. Additionally, she has led mental health initiatives at the Anglo American Wellbeing Expo and is actively involved in the Moura Advisory Council and Multi-Purpose Health Service Auxiliary.

ARTS & CULTURE AWARD

Rosalynde Pearce

Rosalynde Pearce is a key member of the arts and cultural community of the Banana Shire. She has developed and delivered multiple arts events including community markets, and arts workshops for all ages and interests. Rosalynde is an effective communicator and has used this skill to build networks with similar community groups around Queensland. This has resulted in new programs for the Biloela community, and flourishing relationships between like-minded creatives from across the region. Rosalynde spearheaded the revitalisation of the Biloela Community Arts House and the creation of the community garden, bringing a new asset to the town. Her wonderful ability to secure grant funding has been critical in allowing the total refurbishment of the site. From a run down and neglected building, The Biloela Community Arts House is now a sound and thriving community space, in large part due to Rosalynde’s passion and professional knowledge. Additionally, Rosalynde uses her business skills to source grants to make event attendance as affordable as possible for the community. Her vision and drive has grown the Banana Shire Community Arts Incorporation to over 50 members, ensuring sound fiscal management for years to come. Through her passion, leadership, and commitment, Rosalynde has been instrumental in developing the Biloela Community Arts House into a hub for the arts and cultural community. 

YOUNG ARTS & CULTURE AWARD

Heidi Morris

Heidi Morris’s passion and dedication for her dance has seen her excel in 2024. She starred in a junior lead role at Moura School of Ballet’s annual recital and was awarded as the most improved contemporary dancer. Heidi also competed at the Australian Dance Association State Championships in Rockhampton, the Gold Coast’s “C-GEN Creative Generation – State Schools on Stage” production, and the Dreamworld TP World Dance Tour Country Fair. Heidi’s discipline to master her routines is shown in her successes. In addition to her dancing, Heidi is a valuable member of the Moura State School Band, Moura Marlins Amateur Swimming Club, and has represented the Dawson Valley Public Speaking Team. 

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AWARD

Jessica Weimar

Jessica Weimar is an outstanding member of the Theodore community who goes above and beyond to improve her town and deliver lasting positive change. Jessica is an integral member in a wide range of community committees and events including the Bulls and Barrels Bonanza, the Theodore P&C, the Theodore Swim Club, Junior Touch Football and the Chamber of Commerce Centenary Subcommittee to name only a few. Notably, Jessica was a driving force behind the delivery of Theodore Centenary Celebrations in 2024, communicating between multiple parties and organising volunteers. Jessica’s community-minded business skills have also allowed her to secure funds for the upgrade of the Theodore Football Grounds, a project that has created a tangible benefit for the entire community. Jessica’s impressive achievements are the result of her selfless, humble and dedicated attitude. She enriches and strengthens the fabric of the Theodore community and leads by example in all things. Jessica is truly an embodiment of the spirit of volunteerism, inspiring those around her to passionately invest and be involved in community life. Her community-first mindset and can-do attitude make her an invaluable asset to Theodore. 

SPORTSPERSON AWARD

Mel Collins

Mel Collins is a remarkable water skier who has represented her community on the world stage. She recently achieved great success at the World Titles in Spain, winning silver. Mel’s passion for the sport of water skiing and her commitment to her community are intertwined. She consistently breaks records and trains locally on the Dawson River, inspiring others in her community to learn the sport. She actively supports their development by helping to run local ski competitions and teaching aspiring skiers. Coached by her partner, Darryl Shorten, she is dedicated to her sport and self-funds much of her journey. Mel truly deserves recognition as a world champion from our community.

YOUNG SPORTSPERSON AWARD

Marley Ellis

Marley Ellis has shown remarkable dedication to softball, participating in multiple tournaments and teams. In July 2024, Marley was selected to play in the Under 14s Aussie Drop Bears team to compete in the Babe Ruth World Series in Florence, Alabama. Marley’s team achieved a silver medal, and she received player of the game honours. Marley’s commitment to softball involves huge amounts of travel to enable her to play competitively with multiple teams in Rockhampton. She has earned honours such as best fielder for her team, and helped secure three championship trophies. Marley was selected for the Rockhampton Under 16s representative team and competed at the Queensland State Championships. She also contributed to the growth of softball in Taroom by mentoring younger players. In May, she attended a development clinic with Aussie Spirit players. Additionally, Marley is committed to tennis, regularly attending coaching sessions and competing in both junior and senior fixtures, achieving overall first place in a recent tournament.

SPORTS COACH, OFFICIAL AND/OR ADMINISTRATOR AWARD

Tony Cock

Tony Cock is the Vice President of the Biloela Junior Cricket Association, as well as being the coach for the Junior Division 2 team for Callide Dawson Cricket. Tony is also the assistant coach to the Under 13s Central Queensland Boys team, and helps to run the Friday night social cricket games in Biloela. Tony travels extensivley to fulfill these roles, not just within the Biloela region, but wherever the competition takes his teams. Tony loves teaching the kids on his teams and watching their confidence grow. He helps them at every opportunity and provides tips to improve their performance  and encourage their development. Tony is a very fair person and gives recognition and praise where warranted. His coaching and knowledge with both the juniors teams and the committee is invaluable. 

COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR AWARD

Biloela 100

The Biloela Centenary Advisory Committee organised a memorable 100th Birthday Celebration uniting locals, visitors, and dignitaries to honour the town's rich history. The event showcased community collaboration, featuring activities for all ages, including heritage exhibitions, story compilations from local families, a time capsule dedication, a glamorous 1920s-themed black-tie ball, a family fun day with live music and entertainment, and a grand parade with vintage vehicles. This milestone celebration highlighted Biloela's resilience and growth, allowing residents to reflect on their history while embracing the community spirit. The success of the event was attributed to the meticulous planning and efforts of the Advisory Committee, which ensured a memorable experience for all attendees.

COMMUNITY GROUP OR TEAM AWARD

Biloela Junior Cricket Association

The Biloela Junior Cricket Association Inc relies on dedicated volunteer committee members to provide local kids with opportunities to learn and play cricket. Key activities include running a well-organised canteen, overseeing Blaster Programs and social games, and managing divisional teams in competitions. The President takes personal responsibility for maintaining the turf pitch and improving facilities, while the Grants Coordinator successfully secures funding for equipment and enhancements. Other committee roles include coaching, social media management, secretarial duties, financial management, and registration. Efforts to recruit new volunteers are ongoing, as the club seeks to engage parents in supporting their children's cricket experiences.