Communities across the region came together to celebrate Australia Day 2024, welcome new Australian citizens and crown the winners of the annual Australia Day Awards.
Celebration highlights included award ceremonies in Barraba, Manilla and Tamworth, an Aussie hat competition, fireworks, and a classic cricket match.
Congratulations to all those nominated for awards as well as the winners.
The Tamworth Citizen of the Year was Geoff Allen. Geoff (pictured with the Mayor Russell Webb) has made an incredible difference not only in our region but further afield in his 50 years of voluntary service. Geoff, aged 80, remains active with Tamworth Lions Club, Meals on Wheels, Tamworth Men’s Shed and holds many committee positions in volunteer groups.
Jorja Brown was awarded the Tamworth Young Citizen of the Year. She is described as an exceptional student who has immersed herself in a range of activities both at her school and within the community.
The Mitchell Brady Encouragement Award was awarded to Oxley High School's Year 10 student Mili Woods. Mili was recognised as a determined young woman who always has a smile on her face.
The Manilla Citizen of the Year was Kate Phelps. Kate is involved in a number of local organisations and is President of the Manilla CWA Evening Branch and the Manilla Hospital Auxiliary as well as secretary for Manilla Matters.
The Manilla Achiever of the Year was Paul Holden. He is well known for his remarkable success in martial arts and being able to pass on his knowledge of taekwondo to students in Manilla.
The Manilla Young Citizen of the Year was Luke Beattie. He enjoys volunteering for community events including the 100 Mile Dinner, Vintage Machinery Show, LEGO Day, Movie Day and the CWA Trivia Night.
The Manilla Community Christmas Tree event was announced the Community Event of the Year. The event invokes the spirit of Christmas within the community.
Described as extraordinary humans, the Barraba Citizen of the Year award was awarded to Nick and Kim Peake. After they tragically and unexpectedly lost their four-year-old daughter (Ruby) in April 2022, they created Ruby Mae’s Wish in her honour.
Frost Over Barraba was awarded the 2023 Community Event of the Year to recognise the effort to have it return after a break of two years due to COVID-19.