Australia Day is more than just a long weekend – it’s a day when communities across the nation honour the exceptional people whose efforts make everyday life richer for us all. On 26 January 2026, councils across our region from Singleton to Narrabri recognised citizens whose service, leadership and kindness have made a real difference.
In Singleton, Tim Merrick was named Citizen of the Year for his 16 years of volunteer service with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and his dedication as a teacher at Singleton High School. Layla Korff earned Young Achiever of the Year for her work empowering young women through Girl Guides and her volunteer support with organisations such as Red Cross, Lions and Rotary.
Cessnock City awarded Tracey Skene Citizen of the Year for her leadership with the Kiray Putjung Aboriginal Corporation and her ongoing role in delivering cultural programs and support services that foster inclusion and wellbeing. Janece Harrison was awarded Senior Citizen of the Year for her long-standing volunteer work supporting older residents through community programs and Taylee Short was recognised as Young Citizen of the Year for her enthusiastic involvement in youth initiatives.
In Maitland, Trevor Lynch was named Citizen of the Year for decades of dedication as a teacher, Rotarian and community volunteer. Young Citizen of the Year Meg Jackson was recognised for her leadership and advocacy in all-abilities sport, inspiring young people across the region. Carol Coffey was awarded Senior Citizen of the Year for her outstanding volunteer contributions.
In Gunnedah Shire, Michael Broekman was named Citizen of the Year for his outstanding service to community organisations and initiatives, while Steven Hopwood earned Young Citizen of the Year for his ongoing involvement in local projects and volunteer programs.
Over in the Mid‑Western Regional Council area, the Citizen of the Year award went to Carol Morrissey with more than 50 years of volunteer service to the Kandos and Rylstone communities. Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Ellie Rowland, a passionate volunteer involved in Clean Up Australia, National Tree Day, and supporting seniors through the Mudgee Wellness Program.
Peter “Sleapy” Sleap was named Newcastle’s Citizen of the Year for his work through Sleapy’s Foundation, providing vital support, relief, and experiences for cancer patients and their families across the region. Senior Citizen of the Year was awarded jointly to John Cross, recognised for his dedication to assisting residents experiencing homelessness, and Wanda McInnes‑Fogg, honoured for her longstanding support of refugees and women’s programs. Young Citizen of the Year went to Alyssa Wharton, celebrated for her leadership in local youth cricket and for mentoring and inspiring young players, especially girls, to participate in sport.
Muswellbrook Shire Citizen of the Year was awarded to Mick Turner for his leadership of the Sandy Hollow Charity Motorfest and support for local charities. Young Citizen of the Year Beau Muir was recognised for his outstanding volunteer work at the Muswellbrook Animal Care & Sustainability Hub, assisting with animal care, community garden projects and environmental initiatives such as National Tree Day.
Narrabri Shire Council named Michelle Wheeler Citizen of the Year for her volunteer leadership across schools, sporting organisations and service clubs. Caitlin Evans took out Young Citizen of the Year for her contributions to youth programs, creating opportunities for young people to connect, lead and contribute to community life.
While this story focuses on the Citizen, Young Citizen and Senior Citizen award winners, we thank every single person who volunteers, mentors, coaches and supports their communities. Every effort – big or small – helps make our towns stronger, kinder and more connected, and reminds us that community spirit is alive and flourishing, not just on Australia Day, but every day.
