Time to honour selfless service

Nominations have opened for the Moreton Bay Region’s annual Australia Day Awards.

This year’s awards were streamlined into two categories - Citizen of the Year Award, and the new Mayor’s Community Spirit Award – and the 2023 awards will follow the same format.

The Citizen of the Year award pays homage to one of the region’s exemplary residents and their contribution to the community.

The Spirit Award recognises extraordinary contributions to the Moreton Bay community and is open to those who live within or outside the region, and those who aren’t Australian citizens.

Mayor Peter Flannery says the awards are a great opportunity to recognise people who go above and beyond for the community, whether it’s volunteering at a local sports club, organising events, raising money for charity or supporting others by being there when they need it most.

Selfless volunteers

|“These people are the backbone of Moreton Bay and each year it’s one of my greatest honours to shine a light on the selfless individuals who are making a hugely positive impact on the community.|

“This year we saw thousands of volunteers come out to support those who had lost everything during the devastating February-March floods.

“The Moreton Bay community spirit and resilience was on display like we’ve never seen it before, especially after the difficult two years we’ve just had through COVID-19.

“These are the qualities that make Moreton Bay a great place to live, so if you know someone who has achieved great things this year and previous years, then please make sure you give them a nomination.”

The Citizen of the Year Award and the Mayor’s Community Spirit Award will be announced at a ceremony in the weeks leading up to Australia Day 2023 and nominations are open until October 28.

2022 Citizen of the Year

Bribie Island’s Graham Gibb was named the region’s 2022 Citizen of the Year for his work with Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island and as a Volunteer in Policing with Bribie Island Police

As a senior radio officer with Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island for more than a decade, Graham plays a vital role in protecting people enjoying Moreton Bay and supporting the crews on the water, as well as helping ensure the future of the organisation.

He established and continues to lead the annual Emergency Services Expo at VMR Bribie Island, co-ordinating the event, which brings local emergency services together, as well as working with local schools and community organisations, engaging with children and the wider public.

Read about the 2022 Community Spirit Award winners here.

Nominate for 2023

To find out more and for nomination forms click here.