Australia Day Awards
2026 Australia Day Awards
The Weipa Town Authority Australia Day Awards are a celebration and an opportunity to recognise the valuable contribution that individuals, community groups and organisations make in our Town. We are looking for someone that is great at what they do, beyond what would reasonably be expected in their profession, contributes to the Weipa Town local area and inspires those around them.
Everyday people are encouraged to apply – we’re looking for the unsung heroes in our community. If you know a person or a community group who have made a significant impact within our Weipa community, don’t miss the opportunity to nominate them for an Australia Day Award.
Nominee eligibility
Nominees for the Australia Day Awards Program must:
- be an Australian Citizen;
- reside within the Weipa Town local area;
- be nominated by a person or persons other than themselves;
- not be involved in the administration of the Australia Day Awards Program (including the selection process); and
- not be a sitting member of Local, State, or Federal Government.
Award categories and how to nominate
The Australia Day Awards Program offers three (3) award categories:
Citizen Of The Year
Recognising those who have made a noteworthy contribution to the betterment of Weipa Town and/or given outstanding service to the local community. Must be older than 19 years as at 26 January 2026.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Please provide as much information as possible to assist the judging in the judging process. We can only judge based on the information provided in this nomination form.
- What has the nominee done to make an outstanding contribution to Weipa?
- Length of time the nominee has contributed to the community in their field.
- What has the nominee done to be an inspirational role model?
- Awards and achievements received within community (e.g Life Membership, OAM, Club Awards), outline the field of contribution and/or news article (please attach a copy)
- Please outline nature of contribution – by committee or volunteer (paid work is not eligible)
Young Citizen Of The Year
Recognising young people who have made a noteworthy contribution to the betterment of Weipa Town and/or given outstanding service to the local community. Must be aged between 12 years and 18 years as at 26 January 2026.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Please provide as much information as possible to assist the judging in the judging process. We can only judge based on the information provided in this nomination form.
- What has the nominee done to make an outstanding contribution to Weipa?
- Length of time the nominee has contributed to the community in their field.
- What has the nominee done to be an inspirational role model?
- Awards and achievements received within community (e.g Life Membership, OAM, Club Awards), outline the field of contribution and/or news article (please attach a copy)
- Please outline nature of contribution – by committee or volunteer (paid work is not eligible)
Community Spirit Award
Recognising individuals, informal groups or formal organisations that have made a significant and beneficial contribution to the wellbeing or liveability of Weipa Town through projects, activities or events.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Please provide as much information as possible to assist the judging in the judging process. We can only judge based on the information provided in this nomination form.
- How did the initiative or event contribute to Weipa?
- How did the initiative or event involve the community?
- Has the initiative or event left a positive legacy for Weipa?
Winners announced
How and when will winners be announced?
All nominees will be invited to attend the Weipa Town Authority Australia Day Awards Ceremony.
Winners will be announced at the special awards ceremony held on Wednesday, 21 January for finalists, nominees, their guests and the community.
Successful nominees under each program category will receive a medallion and certificate of recognition.
Previous Australia Day Award Winners
2025
Citizen of the Year - Shayna Reeves
Young Citizen of the Year - Annabelle Slingo
Community Spirit Award - Judey Haeusler
2024
Citizen of the Year - Reuben Slingo
Young Citizen of the Year - Hunter Slingo
Community Spirit Award - Scott Kootoofa
Community Spirit Award - Naty Linnehan
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I nominate for more than one category?
Yes. A nominee can be nominated in more than one category. However the Selection Panel may consider a nominee under an alternative category if appropriate.
Please note: An individual cannot receive two Australia Day Awards in the same year.
Can I nominate the same person in the same category next year?
Yes, but an individual cannot receive the same award in consecutive years. They may, however, be nominated for a different category in future years
When do nominations open and close?
Nominations open at 9:00am on Wednesday, 1 October and close at 5:00pm Sunday, 30 November 2025.
Late or incomplete nomination may not be considered.
What information is required to nominate someone?
You will need to provide:
- The nominee's contact details; and
- A summary of the nominee's achievements and contribution to the Weipa community. Supporting information such as newspaper articles or letters of recommendation is strongly encouraged.
Where can I get a nomination form?
Nomination forms are available here
How will nominees be notified?
All valid nominees will be contacted and invited to attend the Weipa Town Authority Australia Day Awards Ceremony. Only nominees who are selected as finalists will receive one (1) complimentary ticket to the event. Additional tickets can be purchased.
When will award recipients be announced?
Award recipients will be announced at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, 21 January 2026.
What do award recipients receive?
Each award recipient will each receive a medallion and a certificate of recognition.
Can I nominate the same person again if they are unsuccessful this year?
Yes. Individuals who are unsuccessful remain eligible for nomination in future years, subject to the Terms and Conditions.