Australia Day is the official national day of Australia. Celebrated annually on 26 January, it marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, NSW, and the raising of the flag of Great Britain at that site by Governor Arthur Phillip.
In present-day Australia, celebrations reflect the diverse society and landscape of the nation, and are marked by community and family events, reflections on Australian history, official community awards, and citizenship ceremonies welcoming new immigrants into the Australian community.
2026 Richmond Valley Australia Day Award Nominations are now open.
2025 Award Winners
Photo: 2025 Australia Day Awards winners and nominees – Broadwater, 26 January
Citizen Of The Year: Neill Burnett
Neils unwavering dedication and passion for supporting the community Rappville and is surrounding efforts is second to none. For over four decades, he has been a pillar of support, making continuous and impactful contributions to the area.
Neil joined the Rappville RFS in July 1980 and remains an active member. Since being elected as Equipment Officer in June 2007, Neil has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment by dedicating countless hours to inspecting and maintaining firefighting equipment. He also voluntarily maintains the brigade station grounds, exemplifying his selflessness,
In addition to his RFS duties, Neil has been an invaluable member of numerous community committees. His longstanding involvement includes serving on the Rappville Community Hall committee, where he oversees the upkeep of the original hall and its grounds in Murray Street. Furthermore, Neil is the caretaker of the Rappville Tennis Courts, ensuring the facilities are in excellent condition.
Neils dedication extends to disaster recovery, where he plays a crucial role as a member of the Rappville Advisory Group. His efforts have been instrumental in the recover and rebuilding of the Rappville community after the devastating 2019 bushfires and 2022 floods.
Young Citizen of the Year: Ruby Beckenham
Ruby, currently in Year 12, has a strong sense of community involvement and volunteers with Casino Lions Club and Casino’s Own Wireless.Her continuous involvement in the school SRC has been proactive and hands-on. She leads by example, such as always helping at fundraising events, getting involved by taking park in theme days and school socials, and this year presenting the weekly student notices on school assembly. Ruby was awarded the prestigious ADF Long Tan Award in Year 10 which recognises Leadership, Mateship and Respect.
Ruby has a strong sense of community and loves to get involved whenever possible. Ruby became involved with the Casino Lions Club to fundraise for a Lions Youth Exchange to the USA, and since then, has sought opportunities to assist with barbecues and other community events.
Ruby landed at COW FM when her dad took her along for the 25th anniversary celebrations. She was just 11 years old with a strong interest in radio. Ruby signed up and was initially teamed with a more seasoned presenter. She co-hosted for about 12 months and when her co-host moved away, Ruby took over the show by herself and has been on the airwaves ever since. She has never lost the joy of bringing a bright, bubbly voice to the Casino Community on Sunday mornings.
Volunteer Of The Year: Stephen Humphrys
Stephen is a community minded individual who has volunteered and contributed to his local community in a variety of ways for many years.
He has been a member of the Lions Club of Casino since 2000, and during that time, has held all major executive positions within the club.
Stephen is a natural leader, who is instrumental in organising club district projects within the Lions organisation, including; Youth of the Year, Gunthorpe Shield and Sil Gava public speaking competitions, and Miss Personality. He has been a key person in all Lion associated activities including; Casino Beef Week, Casino Truck Show, Primex, weekly Farmers Markets, Christmas events, Casino Fun Run, Peach Festival and the Casino Country Music Muster.
Since moving to Casino in 1984, Stephen has volunteered for many community organisations including; Beef Week events, Casino’s Own Wireless, Relay for Life, Australia Day celebrations, CWA, Platypus Day Club and the Casino Lions Farmers Market.Stephen is a good role model and mentor. While he is a quiet achiever he inspires others by his achievements. The respectful, good manner and fun, which he brings to the club activities and projects, encourages club members.
Young Volunteer Of The Year: Shae Fuller
Shae is an enthusiastic and dedicated young life saver, balancing her duties as both a patrolling member and an age manager. Her passion for surf life saving shines through in her willingness to learn new skills and mentor others, all while ensuring the safety of the public on the beach.
Despite her busy schedule, which includes working part-time and studying for he HSC, Shae consistently demonstrates a high level of dedication to the community. She leads by example, inspiring her peers not only to take up surf lifesaving, but also to embrace the spirit of volunteering.
Having joined the surf lifesaving club at just nine years old, Shae had continually sought out opportunities to develop her skills and grow in confidence. Over the years, she ahs taken part in various development programs and has sough guidance and support from other experienced members.
She was awarded Rookie of the Year in recognition of her commitment and dedication to her peers and the community throughout the season.
Shae’s dedication to surf lifesaving and her ongoing commitment to personal and professional growth, makes her a standout individual, both as a life saver and as a mentor to others in her community.
Sportsperson Of The Year: Scott Lambeth
Scott has been a tireless advocate for female rugby league in Casino, playing a pivotal role in encouraging and promoting the sport for women. His dedication has sparked renewed interest and love for the game among women in the community, ensuring rugby league is no longer seen as just a male sport.
For over four years, Scott has been a crucial member of the coaching staff at the Casino Cougars, where his influence has been transformative, particularly in the area of women’s tackle rugby league. He has gone beyond the role of a coach, becoming a mentor and guide to the girls he works with. Scott regularly takes the time to talk with parents, pointing our areas where their daughters can improve.
In his first year as a coach, Scott’s dedication was remarkable. He took on the responsibility of coaching three different teams – 13-17 league tag girls, U14 girls and U17 girls. He trained all three teams twice a week, demonstrating his commitment to helping these athletes grow and succeed.
Scott’s contribution to the sport has not gone unnoticed. He was the first coach at the Casino Cougars Junior Rugby League Club to lead a female tackle team, and in recognition of this, the club named an award after him.
Young Sportsperson Of The Year: Travis Dhu
Travis is a deserving candidate for this award due to his unwavering commitment to his personal Go Karting success, and his dedication to uplifting fellow competitors.
He has consistently demonstrated a passion not only for his own growth, but also for the development of others in the go karting community.
Travis actively offers encouragement and guidance to new karting competitors within his club, helping them build their strengths and confidence. His willingness to assists others shows a deep sense of sportsmanship and mentorship, making him a valuable asset to his club.
In addition to his efforts on the track, Travis is a hardworking member of the Lismore Kart Club. He regularly assists in upgrading the facilities, ensuring that they are maintained at a high standard. His dedication to creating a welcoming environment for the public attending karting events, speaks volumes about his commitment to both his sport and the community.
Travis’ outstanding achievements in 2024 further emphasis the exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. He was crowned the 4SS Junior Queensland State Champion, took second place at the 4SS Junior NSW State Championship, and won the City/Country Series as the 4SS Junio Champion.
Additionally, within his own club, Travis earned the title of 4SS Junior Club Champion and was recognised for his dedication with the Club Appreciation Award.