Scenic Rim’s awards nominations salute community champions
Published on 15 January 2026
People who step in, step up and make their community stronger, safer, kinder and more connected have received a shout out through nominations for Scenic Rim Regional Council’s 2026 Australia Day Awards.
Mayor Tom Sharp said the awards provided an opportunity to honour those who serve their communities and who empower and mentor others through their example and commitment.
"Once again, the Australia Day Awards nominations highlight the outstanding contribution of community champions who make our region such a great place to live," Cr Sharp said.
"These are people who build things, fix things, mobilise others, raise money, respond to crises, or create programs and events that lift their communities in a significant way.
"From disaster recovery to mental health, youth development, emergency response, social inclusion, long-term volunteering — the list is full of people protecting or strengthening the region's emotional, social or physical health."
A total of 28 nominations were submitted for the 2026 Scenic Rim Australia Day Awards in the categories of Citizen of the Year (16 to 30 years), Citizen of the Year (31 to 65 years), Citizen of the Year (65+ years), Community Event of the Year, and Community Spirit Award.
“I am grateful for everyone who has taken the time to nominate individuals and community groups they considered well worthy of recognition," Cr Sharp said.
“My congratulations to all of those nominated, who should be proud of the part they play in our region.
“They set an example of service that should inspire us all, whether through local service organisations or sporting groups, or simply by being ready to lend a helping hand to others in need."
The full list of nominations is as follows:
Citizen of the Year Award (16 – 30 years)
Bailey Muller
Beginning as a PCYC Emergency Services Cadet at age 12, Bailey rose to the role of program leader before achieving his goal of becoming an auxiliary firefighter. As the Local Coordinator he mentors young cadets, supports families involved in the program and consistently demonstrates discipline, compassion and calm leadership. His commitment to community safety, combined with his volunteer mentoring and recognition as a Queensland Volunteer of the Year finalist, shows exceptional maturity and purpose.
Izzabella Lower
Izzabella founded Run4Lives, raising $10,000 to install four public defibrillators in Kalbar, and in 2025 received Rotary’s prestigious Paul Harris Fellow for her dedication to community wellbeing. As co-founder of Boonah State High School’s Cattle Club, she helped drive strong performances at major agricultural shows and supported the school’s Paddock to Plate program which was showcased on ABC Landline. A natural mentor, she encourages her peers to step up and learn.
Citizen of the Year Award (31 – 65 years)
Arran Hassell
A former full-time Army officer with 30 years’ service, including deployments to East Timor and Afghanistan, Arran continues to serve as an Army Reservist, leading Army Reserve training nationally. He is a supporter of veterans in the region and in 2025 was appointed RSL Queensland State Vice President. After Ex–Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Arran coordinated community response efforts on Tamborine Mountain, produced a lessons-learned report and established the Tamborine Mountain Disaster Group to strengthen preparedness and recovery. He has also developed a community partnership with Young Diggers (a veteran and first responder assistance dog organisation) and has raised $20,000 for the charity. Arran regularly speaks at major civic events.
Debbie Bischoff
A driving force behind the Beaudesert Community Kindergarten for nearly two decades, Debbie has served as president and a long-term committee member to ensure local families continue to access a warm, reliable early-learning environment. She is also a key contributor to the Beaudesert Show, coordinating major food operations and supporting multiple sections. Throughout crises like COVID, staffing shortages and floods, Debbie has upheld her community, showing compassion and unwavering commitment. Local families continue to access a safe, inclusive kindergarten program while only hiring highly skilled and dedicated staff.
Jamie Douglas
As principal of Beaudesert Properties, Jamie has been recognised for his efforts in building a locally focused business grounded in trust and integrity. Beyond real estate, Jamie invests heavily in the region through sponsorship of sporting clubs, youth programs, not-for-profit groups, schools and community events. His backing of local athletes, Christmas lights displays and initiatives such the CEO Sleepout reflects a commitment to giving back. Active in the Scenic Rim Business Network, Jamie strengthens local connections and demonstrates how business success can meaningfully serve community wellbeing.
Jayd Moore
As founding member and President of the Harrisville Progress Association, Jayd has driven key projects and strengthened local connection. She also contributes to the Harrisville Historical Society, Neighbourhood Watch and the Harrisville State School P&C, where she helped raise more than $40,000 for an all-purpose court cover benefiting students and the wider community. Jayd’s vision, generosity and ability to unite people have delivered lasting improvements for Harrisville.
Jennifer Ironside
Through initiatives such as Pink Table Talks and Scenic Business Women Dinners, Jennifer creates safe, inclusive spaces that foster connection, confidence and community support. Her business and personal coaching, free events and public speaking help women overcome challenges and reduce social isolation. Jennifer leads with courage, authenticity and compassion, addressing sensitive wellbeing issues with integrity and warmth.
Jenny Jenner
Jenny Jenner has made an extraordinary contribution to the Scenic Rim through her leadership of the Kalbar Sunflower Festival, which has raised more than $435,000 for cancer care since 2022. Her efforts have funded a Cancer Care Nurse at the Mater Hospital Springfield and provided multiple cuddle beds for palliative care wards across southeast Queensland. Despite significant personal challenges, Jenny has continued to grow the festival and run additional fundraising events. Her resilience, creativity, and generosity have inspired thousands and delivered life-changing support to families facing illness.
Kane Lutter
Through Butcher Co Kalbar, Kane provides ongoing support to local schools, sporting clubs and community groups, always stepping in with time, resources, and expertise. His partnership with Boonah State High School’s Paddock to Plate program gives students hands-on industry experience, work placements and meaningful career pathways. Kane’s humble, reliable leadership strengthens community connections and inspires young people to take pride in their region.
Kay Tommerup
Kay is a leading voice for agritourism in Queensland and a tireless advocate for farmers across the Scenic Rim. As president of Agritourism Queensland, she helped shape the state’s agritourism roadmap and played a key role in influencing the Queensland Government’s 2025 Boosting Regional Economies Through Agritourism policy. Through Tommerup’s Dairy Farm, Kay champions innovative, sustainable farm diversification and actively promotes agriculture as a viable, meaningful career for young people. She also led the Hands Across the Land fundraiser, raising more than $30,000 for flood-affected western Queensland farmers.
Kris Jennings
Kris demonstrated extraordinary community spirit following the severe Western Queensland floods in 2025. As roads reopened, he mobilised local hay producers and fellow truck drivers, coordinating multiple volunteer convoys to deliver essential supplies to devastated farmers in the Quilpie and Thargomindah regions. Navigating logistical hurdles, Kris helped reach those most in need. A generous local businessman and owner of Jennings Bulk Haulage, he showed leadership well beyond his own community, earning widespread respect and even inspiring a song written in his honour.
Citizen of the Year Award (65+ years)
Jennifer Pickup
Since 2020, Jennifer has served as Secretary of the Fassifern District Historical Society and Treasurer of the Boonah Activity Shed, taking on wide-ranging responsibilities that keep both organisations running smoothly. At Templin Museum, she leads by ensuring bookings, volunteers, catering, maintenance and visitor care are all handled with professionalism and warmth. A compassionate problem-solver, she supports older volunteers, resolves issues sensitively and contributes wherever needed, from cleaning to public presentations.
Jim and Gwen Tyson
Gwen has strengthened local identity by creating wildlife awareness signage, publishing Kooralbyn’s history, and producing community and tourism brochures, while also developing resources to support wildlife carers.
Jim revitalised the Kooralbyn Community Hall as President, securing major upgrades and expanding its role as a social hub, and now coordinates the Men’s Group with inclusive, meaningful programs. Together, they serve as trained Community Disaster Volunteers and active RSL members. Their teamwork, humility, and tireless service embody true civic dedication.
Margaret Durante
Margaret has revitalised bowls in the Scenic Rim through her leadership, coaching and commitment to inclusion. As the previous Treasurer of the Beaudesert Lawn Bowls Club, and an accredited coach and umpire, she has strengthened the sport’s future by creating free junior programs, partnering with schools, and opening the greens to families. Her Be Healthy, Be Active initiatives encourage older residents to stay active and socially connected. A Justice of the Peace and respected mentor, Margaret leads with warmth, generosity, and vision. Her work has rebuilt club culture, boosted participation, and created genuine intergenerational connection across the community.
Peter Venz
Peter has devoted a lifetime to serving Beaudesert through sport, community organisations, faith groups and hands-on support for those in need. A former Player of the Year in the Gold Coast League, he went on to coach and assist at the Beaudesert Soccer Club while volunteering for Beaudesert State School’s Brekkie Club and the Show Society. Peter is also Treasurer of Beaudesert U3A, Pickleball and the Uniting Church. He is a key driver of Tracey’s Pantry, making fortnightly Food Bank runs and delivering emergency supplies. Known for his humility and reliability, Peter also provides ongoing support to elderly residents.
Phil Rankin
Phil has contributed more than 40 years of exceptional service to Beechmont and the wider Scenic Rim through the Rural Fire Brigade and numerous community organisations. A respected leader during major emergencies, he has guided firefighters and residents through bushfires, storms and natural disasters, including the 2019 Beechmont fires and recovery efforts across Queensland and interstate. Phil also supports local committees, educates children on fire safety, volunteers at markets and fundraisers, and mentors younger brigade members.
Community Event of the Year Award
Boonah Progress Inc - The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular
The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular, delivered by Boonah Progress Inc, has become the premier Clydesdale event in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting competitors and visitors from across Australia and overseas. The festival celebrates the region’s heritage through Clydesdales, heavy horses, rare trades, Scottish history and immersive demonstrations that engage all ages. Its growth has generated major social and economic benefits, boosting local businesses and sustaining community groups which rely on event income. The spectacular draws new visitors to the region each year, fostering pride, connection and return tourism.
Boonah State High School - Boonah SHS Paddock to Plate Dinner
Boonah State High School’s Paddock to Plate Dinner has become a signature Scenic Rim event, showcasing the full food journey through hands-on learning, industry partnership and local pride. Students grow crops, complete cattle feed trials, design and build farm equipment, film professional-quality media, and prepare a chef-led regional menu using Scenic Rim produce. The event unites agriculture, hospitality, IT, business and trades, with more than 40 per cent of students involved annually. It strengthens ties with farmers, chefs, and local businesses, creates real career pathways, and celebrates the region’s agritourism identity.
Cancer Council Queensland Beaudesert Volunteer Branch - Australia's Biggest Morning Tea & Daffodil Day
The Cancer Council Queensland Beaudesert Volunteer Branch has supported the Scenic Rim for more than 30 years, raising $26,611.50 in 2025 alone through Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and Daffodil Day. Their efforts fund vital cancer research and provide essential services such as free accommodation at Charles Wanstall Apex Lodge, wigs and headwear support and the 13 11 20 information line. These events unite the community in hope, supporting families affected by cancer across the region.
Tamborine & District Citizens Association Inc - Tamborine Car Show
The Tamborine Car Show, delivered by the Tamborine & District Citizens Association, has grown into a major annual event that draws up to 1000 visitors and puts the village of Tamborine firmly on the map. Now listed on the National Car Show Calendar, it showcases local restoration talent, features 25 sponsored trophy categories and attracts strong support from businesses, community groups and volunteers. With free public entry, family-friendly activities, live music, and strong local partnerships, the show has become a much-loved celebration of Tamborine’s identity and spirit.
Tamborine Village Lions Club - Christmas in the Village
For the past 15 years the Tamborine Village Lions Club has hosted Christmas in the Village,
a cherished annual celebration featuring Christmas carols, twilight markets, free children’s activities, giveaways, horse and carriage rides, face painting, Santa’s Tent, and festive entertainment. Supported by local businesses, fire brigades, volunteers and service groups, it showcases strong community spirit and pride. The iconic 12 Hams of Christmas raffle and generous Lions sponsorship help fund local projects year-round.
Community Spirit Award
Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary
The Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary has supported patients, staff and the wider community since 1962, raising more than $530,000 to improve local healthcare. Their contributions have funded medical infusion chairs, maternity recliners, staff rest furniture and comfort items across every hospital department. Volunteers also brighten Christmas for patients and on-duty staff with gifts and treats. Known for their kindness and reliability, members (many in their 70s) provide heartfelt care, handmade cards, baby clothes, and a welcoming presence to all who enter the hospital.
Clare Wray
After the 2023 Christmas storm and Ex Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Clare sourced, serviced and donated generators to vulnerable residents, worked closely with Council during response efforts, and helped establish the Tamborine Mountain Disaster Management Group. Based on her postgraduate studies into community resilience, she created the Life on the Mountain disaster preparedness guide and runs bi-monthly Welcome to the Mountain sessions to support new residents and build preparedness. Balancing full-time work and family responsibilities, Clare leads with initiative and persistence, inspiring others to volunteer, and contributing significantly to the community’s resilience.
Jayd Moore
As founding member and President of the Harrisville Progress Association, Jayd has led initiatives that build connection, pride and local participation. She supports the Harrisville Historical Society and serves on the State School P&C, raising more than $40,000 for an All-Purpose Cover that now benefits students and the wider community. Jayd also assisted vulnerable residents during Cyclone Alfred, ensuring food and essentials reached those in need.
Jo McVilly
As operator of Ironbark Dog Park, Jo creates a welcoming community space, while through Encompass Wellbeing she expands NDIS programs that help clients build confidence, independence and real-life skills. Jo offers young people opportunities to participate in community projects in a safe, supported environment and is known for always stepping in when someone needs help. Running three businesses while continuing to give back, Jo exemplifies kindness, resilience and community spirit, making her a quiet but powerful force for good.
Kris Jennings
Kris showed exceptional community spirit following the devastating 2025 Western Queensland floods. As soon as roads reopened, he mobilised local hay producers and fellow truck drivers, coordinating volunteer convoys to deliver urgent supplies to farmers in the Quilpie and Thargomindah districts. A young Scenic Rim businessman, Kris put his own time, resources and leadership on the line to support struggling rural families.
Rickie Glockler
As Secretary of Moriarty Park, Rickie coordinates major events including Clean Up Australia Day, Easter activities, assists at Movies in the Park and fundraisers supporting the Canungra Skatepark. She introduced the Moriarty Park Volunteers Award and helps deliver collaborative events with Council and sporting groups. Rickie also serves as Vice President of the Canungra Social Swim Club, supports the Beaudesert Kingfishers Under 6s, and volunteers for Turning Canungra Pink, Campfest and school P&C initiatives.
Samantha Caves
Samantha has made a significant and lasting impact on the Fassifern community through her nine years as Community Development Coordinator at Carinity Fassifern Community Centre. She has trained more than 250 locals in Certificate III in Individual Support and Certificate II in Foundational Skills, achieving an outstanding 95 per cent employment outcome, and earning regional and state recognition at the Queensland Training Awards. Samantha also helped establish the Fassifern Community Bingo group, growing it from 12 participants to more than 80 weekly attendees and creating an inclusive social hub for all ages.