The Northern Areas Council is proud to announce the winners of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards. These awards recognise the people and groups who roll up their sleeves and make a real difference whether it’s through volunteering, leadership, or creating opportunities that strengthen our towns and communities.
Citizen of the Year – Margie Symonds
Margie Symonds has dedicated her life to enriching the Jamestown community through education, music, and volunteer service. A passionate teacher for over four decades, Margie founded the Jamestown Enterprise Team to support disadvantaged students with practical life skills, while continuing to teach music and mentor young people. Her musical talents have graced countless community events, church services, weddings, funerals, and local choirs, often without recognition or reward. Beyond the classroom and stage, Margie has been a driving force behind a number of initiatives raising funds for local projects and providing opportunities for youth and others to learn and connect through donut sales utilising the Lions Catering Van. Her tireless efforts extend to numerous community organisations, from sporting clubs to church activities, always with kindness and humility. Margie’s lifelong commitment to service and her unwavering care for others make her a truly deserving recipient.
Community Event of the Year – National Shearing and Wool Handling Championships
Jamestown hosted the National Shearing and Wool Handling Championships in October 2025, attracting competitors and visitors from across Australia and New Zealand. Delivered by a dedicated volunteer committee, the event featured over 400 competitors, the Trans-Tasman Challenge, and a formal dinner for state teams. With more than 1,000 attendees each day, the Championships provided a major economic boost to local businesses and accommodation, while showcasing Jamestown on a national stage. Beyond the competition, the event brought rural communities together, lifting spirits during a challenging drought and reinforcing the importance of connection and wellbeing.
Young Citizen of the Year – Eliza Heinrich
Eliza exemplifies leadership, dedication, and community spirit. As Gladstone High School Captain for 2025, she balances her studies with two local jobs and active service as a volunteer firefighter with the CFS. Her commitment to helping others extends beyond her hometown—she self‑funded a volunteer trip to Fiji to assist in schools and community development projects. At home, Eliza has contributed to local fundraising efforts, including donating goods for a breast cancer appeal, and has previously worked as a lifeguard at the town pool. Known for her positivity and willingness to lend a hand, Eliza dedicates much of her CFS volunteering to assisting with cadet training while gaining the skills needed to help protect her community. Her outstanding efforts have even earned her an invitation to meet the Governor‑General, a testament to her remarkable achievements and bright future.
Award for Active Citizenship – Laura Nature Playground Committee
The Laura Nature Playground Committee has transformed a long-held community dream into a reality, creating a vibrant, nature-inspired play space at the Laura Sporting Reserve. Beginning in 2020 with small fundraising efforts like selling homemade slices, this passionate group of local parents persevered through challenges, securing grants and ultimately attracting major support from Variety Children’s Charity SA, which contributed $216,000 toward the project. Today, the playground stands as a wonderful community asset, offering children and families a safe, engaging environment and enriching local events. The committee’s vision and determination have not only delivered a unique facility but also strengthened community pride and collaboration. Their efforts have been celebrated at state level, with members attending Variety’s formal grant presentation and hosting the Variety Bash convoy in Laura. These moments highlight the profound impact of their active citizenship and commitment to enhancing community life.
Mayor Keith Pluckrose, who will present the awards at the Australia Day event, said the winners reflect the true spirit of our communities:
“These folks don’t do it for recognition they do it because they care about their town and the people in it. That’s what makes our communities strong.”
He added:
“Whether it’s pulling together a national event, building a playground from scratch, or just lending a hand when it’s needed, these efforts make a big difference. We’re proud to celebrate them and say thanks.”