Gunnedah shire held its Australia Day Awards dinner at the Gunnedah Town Hall on Wednesday night.
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Athlete Taylor Corry was chosen as Gunnedah’s ambassador this year and Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton was among special guests.
Gunnedah’s councillors turned out in force, and friends and family of nominees showed their support.
Young Citizen Award of the Year was shared by Michaela Langdon and Keely Murphy for their commitment to academic progress and their leadership skills at their respective high schools in 2016.
Citizen of the Year Award (21-40) was received by Jamie Brown for his contribution to Gunnedah’s musical community. He has played numerous roles within Schools on Stage production, local choirs and Gunnedah Conservatorium.
Mike Barnier won Citizen of the Year (40+) for his long-term contribution to the region through Angel Flight. He has donated countless hours and aircraft costs in his role as a voluntary pilot for the charity.
The Eve Turner Perpetual Award was received by Stephen King for his volunteer work with Gunnedah GoCo and his positive, uplifting attitude.
The Cultural Award went to Maggie Denman for reviving live theatre in Gunnedah and encouraging youth in dramatic pursuits.
The Community Achievement Award was received by the volunteer committee of Yallambee Homes for their dedication and commitment to the residents.
Ray Darcy received The Ossie and Beryl Campbell Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award for his contribution to the sporting community and his long history with Gunnedah Speedway. He also received The Ivan Towns Memorial Award for Coach of the Year.
The Max and Mikie Maas Good Neighbour Award was received by Kate Oram for going above and beyond as a neighbour by providing practical support and encouragement to those in need.
Junior Female Sportsperson of the Year was taken out by Harriet King for her dedication to horseriding and her achievements within the sport.
Female Sportsperson of the Year was received by Gabrielle O’Gorman for her significant achievements in tennis and positive attitude.
Male Sportsperson of the Year was awarded to Wade Hudson for his outstanding results in archery and encouraging new and young members of the archery club.
Junior Sports Team of the Year went to 15 years state age netball team for becoming one of the most successful netball teams in Gunnedah’s history.
Senior Sports Team of the Year was awarded to Gunnedah Rugby Club for building a network among members and their families. Past and present members celebrated 125 years as a club in 2016.