Local achievements celebrated with Murrumbidgee’s Australia Day awards
Published on 28 January 2025
26 January 2025
Australia Day celebrations were in full swing across the Murrumbidgee Council area, with vibrant events held in Coleambally, Darlington Point and Jerilderie.
Ceremonies were held in each town to recognise the dedication and outstanding efforts of individuals and groups in the community.
Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae OAM said she was very pleased to attend each ceremony and reflected on the exceptional efforts of the award recipients and the strong sense of community spirit.
“It’s a privilege to join with the community to celebrate the incredible people and community groups who go above and beyond to improve the lives of those around them,” she said.
Cr McRae congratulated the award recipients and nominees. “Their contributions are truly inspiring and the impact they have made on our communities is impressive. Their selfless dedication continues to make Murrumbidgee a better place to live, play and work.”
This year’s celebrations were made even more special by the presence of Australia Day Ambassador Lana Masterson, who attended the events at Coleambally and Darlington Point.
Mrs Masterson delivered inspiring addresses at each ceremony, reflecting on the importance of community, service and shared values and her experiences as CEO of the innovative youth program, Down The Track.
2025 Australia Day Award recipients
Coleambally
- Citizen of the Year: Monica Whelan
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Leslie Robinson
- Junior Citizen of the Year: Regan Cullen
- Senior Sportsperson of the Year: Carolyne Rutledge
- Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Jessie Pound
- Sub-junior Sportsperson of the Year: Haddie Groves
- Sporting team of the Year: Darlington Point/Coleambally Rugby League Football Club 1st grade team
- Cultural Award of the Year: St Peter’s Primary School Musical Production
- Event of the Year: Darlington Point/Coleambally Rugby League Football Club 50 year reunion
Darlington Point
- Citizen of the Year: Shaun Roche
- Young Citizen of the Year: Isabella Feltham
- Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Mia Honeyman
- Sporting team of the Year: Darlington Point/Coleambally Rugby League Football Club 1st grade team
- Event/Group Achievement of the Year: Darlington Point Public School P&C
Jerilderie
- Citizen of the Year: Tania Roe
- Sportsperson of the Year: Craig Knight
- Little Aussie Awards:
- Lexie Bryce, St Joseph’s Primary School
- Hamza Swaid, Jerilderie Public School