Local Achievers Acknowledged At Murrumbidgee’s Australia Day Awards

Vibrant events held in Darlington Point, Coleambally and Jerilderie to celebrate Australia Day and recognise the outstanding efforts and dedication of individuals and groups within the community.

Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae OAM said she was very pleased to attend each ceremony, congratulating award recipients and nominees.

She 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,” Mayor McRae said.

“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.”

Murrumbidgee’s Australia Day Ambassador, Lana Masterson attended the events at Darlington Point and Coleambally.

Mrs Masterson delivered inspirational 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.

Australia Day award recipients for 2025 included:

Coleambally:

• Monica Whelan, Citizen of the Year;

• Leslie Robinson, Lifetime Achievement Award;

• Regan Cullen, Junior Citizen of the Year;

• Carolyne Rutledge, Senior Sportsperson of the Year;

• Jessie Pound, Junior Sportsperson of the Year;

• Haddie Groves, Sub-junior Sportsperson of the Year;

• Darlington Point/Coleambally Rugby League Football Club 1st grade team, Sporting Team of the Year;

• St Peter’s Primary School Musical Production, Cultural Award of the Year; and

• Darlington Point/Coleambally Rugby League Football Club 50 Year Reunion, Event of the Year.

Darlington Point:

• Shaun Roche, Citizen of the Year;

• Isabella Feltham, Young Citizen of the Year;

• Mia Honeyman, Junior Sportsperson of the Year;

• Darlington Point/Coleambally Rugby League Football Club 1st grade team, Sporting Team of the Year; and

• Darlington Point Public School P&C, Event/Group Achievement of the Year.

Jerilderie:

• Tania Roe, Citizen of the Year;

• Craig Knight, Sportsperson of the Year;

• Lexie Bryce - St Joseph’s Primary School and Hamza Swaid - Jerilderie Public School, Little Aussie Awards.

IMAGE: Shaun Roche, from Darlington Point, is 2025’s Citizen of the Year.

IMAGE: Darlington Point’s Isabella Feltham shows off her Young Citizen of the Year award.

• Topics:

• Australia Day