10/01/2023
We have some amazing people serving in our community and 18 finalists have been nominated for the Ipswich Australia Day Awards. Congrats to all finalists, and thank you for all you do in our city. Pictured is last years Citizennof the year Zoe Knorre from Grace Homestead Recovery Centre..
Citizen of the Year Finalists
Donna Cavanagh – helps the lives of many in the community, from organising Crossroads in the Park, Christmas hampers for Hannah’s House, The Women’s Crisis Support Services and Ipswich Foodbarn, to volunteering for cook ups, Australia Day flag planting and flood recovery work.
Amanda Draheim – has served as the editor, social media coordinator, secretary and now president of the Riverview Neighbourhood Watch, going above and beyond in organising community events and programs.
Bruce Morton – has advocated health and environmental issues through his work at the West Moreton Health Public Health Unit for the past 15 years, most recently playing an active role in the unit’s COVID-19 response.
Kirsty O’Brien – is a leader and advocate for the Ipswich Central Partnership, secretary of the Ipswich Ratepayers and Residents Association Inc. and volunteers for the Ipswich Residents Against Toxic Environments, creating art to connect the community and raise awareness.
Senior Citizen of the Year Finalists
Terry Carter – has been a dedicated and active member of many community groups such as Rotaract, Apex, Rotary, the Prostate Cancer Support Group and the Ipswich Men’s Shed.
Geoff and Priscilla Dickie – are the parents of Allison Baden-Clay, they continue to work and volunteer to raise awareness about domestic violence.
Rita Langer – is a well-known volunteer across the city, particularly at Norths and Blair State School, where she’s volunteered for more than 50 years.
Donna Reggett – has supported mental health initiatives and su***de prevention, especially within the veterans community, for more than 20 years.
Young Citizen of the Year Finalists
Koby Saunter – an aspiring DJ who organises music events to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute and Beyond Blue.
Noah Springall – organises and supports many charity events, helping organisations from the RSPCA to people affected by bushfires.
Sport and Recreation Award
Mat Britton – started a charity called Trial to Triumph that raises awareness and funds, through various sporting events, for the research of mesothelioma and other dust diseases.
Archie Graham – a fantastic role model to other youth living with a disability, Ipswich’s indigenous youth, and young residents with sporting aspirations.
Cultural Award Finalists

Mieke den Otter – a dedicated and passionate supporter of the city’s arts and cultural scene, who also mentors young artists and fundraises for charities
Robyn “Tallman” Wakkajinda – as principal artist of the Living Breathing Gallery in Bell Street