Australia Day Award nominations open for Cairns and Mareeba

Cairns Regional Council and the Mareeba Shire Council have launched their Australia Day Awards nomination process.

Every year, Cairns Regional Council acknowledges how important it is to recognise the people around you who are making a substantial contribution to the lives of others in our region.

That’s why the annual Australia Day Awards provide an opportunity to nominate a friend, colleague, or relative who deserves recognition for their achievements and contributions to the Cairns community.

Nominations are now for the Cairns Regional Council 2027 Australia Day Awards, a special event that gives locals a chance to thank those individuals who go above and beyond for their community.

Awards will be presented across three categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden encouraged locals to take the time to shout out the people who deserve to be recognised for the positive and lasting impact they have for the people of Cairns and our region.

“We all live busy lives and sometimes we forget how important it is to show appreciation for the people who have helped us, inspired us or created meaningful change in our own lives and in the lives of others,” Cr Eden said.

“This is a very special awards ceremony for both nominators and nominees, giving them both the chance to give and receive this honour. I encourage everyone in the community to take a few minutes out of their day to put forward a nomination. 

“If you know someone who is deserving of this recognition, and I am sure many of you do, I encourage you to jump online and fill out the form.”

Last year’s Citizen of the Year, Dr Renee Cremen, said receiving the award was a wonderful way to be recognised but was also an opportunity to take a moment to feel seen and appreciated for what she had worked hard to achieve.

Dr Cremen played a key role in strengthening healthcare services in Babinda, helping ensure the community continues to have access to quality care close to home.

“Receiving the 2026 Citizen of the Year Award was truly humbling. For most of us, we just go about our day doing the best we can and we may not even realise the depth and breadth of the impact we are having,” Dr Cremen said.

“Making the decision to nominate someone is truly one of the most special gifts you can give.”

Nominations close on December 20, with winners announced on January 26, 2027.

Nomination forms and further information are available on the Cairns Regional Council website: cairns.qld.gov.au/experience-cairns/events/annual-events/australia-day-awards.