The Sunshine Coast Australia Day Awards celebrate the people and organisations whose quiet commitment, generosity and leadership make a lasting difference across the region. This year’s nominees span generations and causes, from lifelong volunteers and emerging young leaders to community groups strengthening social connection, care and creativity. On the following pages are the hinterland nominees recognised across each category for their outstanding contribution to community life.

Young Citizen of the Year Nominee, Imogene Nguyen

Imogene Nguyen is a compassionate and driven young woman whose commitment to her community is both inspiring and impactful. For the past five years, she has worked part-time at The Shack Community Centre in Nambour, where she has supported individuals facing vulnerability with maturity well beyond her years. This role has enabled her to pursue her passion for supporting young women experiencing eating disorders, addiction, and trauma, with her work in schools and communities gaining recognition from other institutions. Imogene is also the driving force behind the Trees of Hope Christmas Appeal, bringing hope and joy to more than 1,600 individuals and families each year. Beyond her work, she volunteers extensively through her church, fundraising for cancer and mental health organisations and supporting education and feeding programs overseas. Having completed a Diploma of Counselling, Imogene is deeply committed to empowering young people to recognise their value and potential. Humble, resilient, and faith-driven, she is an outstanding role model within her community.

***Sunshine Coast Foodie Martin Duncan & Riding for the Disabled President Carolyn Neville.***

Citizen of the Year Nominee,
Martin Duncan

Martin Duncan, widely known as the Sunshine Coast Foodie, has spent over a decade championing the people, produce and places that define the Sunshine Coast. Through storytelling, events and tireless community involvement, he has become one of the region’s most trusted advocates for connection, kindness and local food.

As the founder of Sconetime, Martin created a welcoming intergenerational initiative where seniors and students connect over homemade scones, tea and conversation. What began as a simple idea has grown into a beloved community program that reduces isolation and fosters shared learning.

Beyond Sconetime, Martin has volunteered thousands of hours promoting local producers, cafés and restaurants through his Sunshine Coast Foodie platform, amplifying small businesses and regional food culture. He freely gives his time as an emcee, connector and advocate, supporting collaboration across hospitality and agrifood sectors. Martin’s generosity, authenticity and passion have strengthened community pride and positioned the Sunshine Coast as one of Australia’s most vibrant food regions.

Senior Citizen of the Year Nominee,
Noela de Jonge

Noela de Jonge has dedicated an incredible 43 years volunteering at the Lifeline store in Nambour, contributing the equivalent of 8.5 years of full-time work.

At 82, she still attends weekly, creating award-winning window displays that attract customers and boost sales, helping fund Lifeline’s vital services such as 24/7 crisis counselling and suicide prevention.

Her creative flair and themed displays make the store look professionally styled, often inspiring customers to purchase entire outfits.

Beyond her artistic talent, Noela has personally interacted with thousands of volunteers and customers, offering encouragement and kindness.

Her commitment has endured through four store relocations and personal hardships, including the loss of her husband.

Always cheerful and generous, Noela also assists fellow volunteers and neighbours without seeking recognition.

Her loyalty, creativity, and compassion have made a profound impact on Lifeline and the community, making her truly deserving of acknowledgment for her extraordinary service.

Community – group or organisation Nominee, The Everyday Store, Nambour

The Everyday Store in Nambour sits at the heart of town, offering fresh fruit, vegetables, and a wide range of pantry staples all at prices well below supermarket rates.

At the counter, you would always find former food outlet manager David Cherry ready with a friendly smile, helpful advice, and a dash of cheeky humor.

His warmth and positivity make the store more than just a place to shop, it’s a welcoming hub for the community.

Beyond groceries, The Everyday Store fosters connection, offering coffee and conversation for busy locals and older residents alike.

It’s a space where fellowship thrives and people feel valued.

David ’s attitude is a reminder of the power of kindness and community spirit. If more people shared his friendly, helpful approach, the world would undoubtedly be a brighter place.

The Everyday Store isn’t just about food, it’s about people, connection, and making everyday life a little better.

***RangeCare Chief Executive Gary Holland with the nomination.***

Community – group or organisation Nominee, RangeCare

RangeCare, a Sunshine Coast not-for-profit, has supported seniors for 40 years by helping them maintain independence with dignity and respect. Beyond traditional aged care services, RangeCare delivers innovative healthy lifestyle programs that keep seniors active, mobile, and socially connected.

Through aquatic classes, gym sessions, Pilates, and inclusive activities like lightweight bowling, balloon volleyball, and dance fitness, RangeCare promotes physical health while fostering social engagement. Outings to bowls clubs, golf courses, and scenic walks further enhance wellbeing and community connection.

Physiotherapy support is integrated into programs, ensuring seniors maintain strength and mobility. Transport services remove barriers to participation, making activities accessible for all abilities.

These programs significantly reduce loneliness, improve mental health, and help seniors remain in their homes longer.

By combining fitness, fun, and social inclusion, RangeCare exemplifies holistic care and deserves recognition for its commitment to creating healthier, happier lives for the aging population. RangeCare was also nominated in the Healthy and Active category

***Lind Lane Theatre was represented by Lea-Anne Grevett, Colin Grevett and Cec Rebetzke for their nomination in the ‘Community – group or organisation’ category.***

Community – group or organisation Nominee, The Lind Theatre

Founded in December 1945 following the end of World War II, The Lind Theatre has grown into one of Nambour’s most enduring and cherished cultural institutions.

Celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2025, the theatre has continuously operated despite changes in name and location, sustained by the dedication of volunteers for eight decades.

As a community theatre, The Lind has nurtured generations of performers, directors, playwrights, technicians, and audiences, inspiring many to pursue careers in the performing arts. Notable professional actors, including Patrice Tipoki and Tim Page, began or shared their journeys on its stage.

The Lind supports creative development through workshops and training across all areas of theatre production and annually hosts the Sunshine Coast Youth Theatre Festival, encouraging participation from across the region and interstate.

Presenting five diverse play seasons each year and generously supporting local charities, The Lind Theatre exemplifies artistic excellence, community spirit, and a lifelong commitment to the performing arts.

Healthy and Active Nominee, Sunshine Coast Riding for Disabled Australia

Sunshine Coast Riding for the Disabled Association (SCRDA) is a volunteer-powered, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to fostering inclusion, connection, and wellbeing through equine-assisted programs. Operating year-round, SCRDA delivers therapeutic and recreational riding sessions, on-ground programs, and carriage driving for individuals with disabilities. Each participant undergoes medical assessment to ensure safety and tailored support, guided by CAD-qualified coaches. The organisation has invested over $1 million in world-class facilities, including international-standard arenas, hydraulic lifts, and a second centre, Laurie’s Farm, offering Equine Assisted Learning in a serene natural setting. SCRDA’s impact is profound, enhancing physical strength, balance, confidence, and independence while reducing social isolation. With 143 volunteers contributing over 514 hours weekly, the organisation thrives on community spirit and compassion. More than a riding centre, SCRDA is a lifeline, empowering participants and volunteers alike, and exemplifying the Sunshine Coast Council’s vision of “Together we thrive.”

***Gary McKitterick Gillett’s Trek Ready Himalayas raises money for Parkinson’s research.***

Community – group or organisation Nominee, Trek Ready Himalayas

Trek Ready Himalayas combines adventure, advocacy, and community to raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s disease.

Through treks to iconic destinations like Everest Base Camp (5,346m) and Annapurna Base Camp (4,100m), participants, including those living with Parkinson’s, undertake symbolic journeys of resilience.

Months of training mirror the daily challenges faced by people with Parkinson’s, while grassroots fundraising in Australia such as pancake stalls, golf days, and raffles, builds empathy and sparks conversations.

These efforts have raised $52,000 for Shake It Up Australia, with a $100,000 goal for April 2026. All funds support Australian-based research through Shake It Up, driving progress toward better treatments and a cure.

***St Augustine’s Opp Shop volunteers, from left, are Laura Commins (People’s Church Warden), Anne Leach, (Op Shop Coordinator and Priest’s Warden) and Hazel Jeary (Volunteer).***

Community – group or organisation Nominee, St Augustine’s Op Shop

St Augustine’s Op Shop in Palmwoods is a volunteer-run community hub that has supported Sunshine Coast families for over a decade. Led by Coordinator Anne Leach and 25 dedicated volunteers, the Op Shop provides affordable, high-quality goods while offering practical assistance to those facing hardship. Its compassionate approach ensures every visitor is welcomed with dignity and care. Beyond retail, the Op Shop partners with Palmwoods and Woombye State Schools to supply vouchers, essential items, and fresh fruit each term, supporting school chaplaincy programs and families in need. They also assist local welfare services, Mingary Palliative Care, and individuals experiencing homelessness or crisis. Their generosity extends to flood-affected communities and employment support initiatives. Committed to sustainability, the Op Shop reduces textile waste through responsible recycling and donations to global charities. Quietly and consistently, this organisation uplifts lives, strengthens community wellbeing, and exemplifies kindness in action.

***Community – group or organisation Nominees, Viera Keogh & Leanne Dodd.***

Community – group or organisation Nominee, Viera Keogh

Viera Keogh is a Maleny-based floral artist whose work reflects deep creativity, community connection, and respect for nature. Originally settling in Australia from overseas, Viera has embraced local culture while building a unique artistic practice focused on dried and preserved flowers. Working from a dedicated studio on her rural property, she draws inspiration from the surrounding native wildlife, plants, and expansive natural landscape.

A busy mother of two, Viera balances family life with her creative business, Floral Twist, producing distinctive arrangements, wreaths, and bespoke pieces. She also facilitates floral workshops that bring women together in a calm, supportive environment, encouraging mindfulness, creativity, and connection.

Viera consistently supports others and contributes positively to the Maleny community.

Community – group or organisation Nominee, Creative Arts Nominee, Leanne Dodd

Leanne (Lea) Dodd has made an outstanding contribution to the Sunshine Coast’s cultural life through literary leadership, community building, and long-term voluntary service.

As co-owner of Rosetta Books Maleny, she has transformed an independent bookshop into a vibrant community hub, hosting author events, workshops, book clubs, and children’s programs while championing Australian and local writers. Her initiatives include establishing The Red Room author space, launching the Rainforest Readers Club, and leading fundraising efforts supporting literacy and social good.

Through her business Createplace, Lea delivers writing-for-wellbeing retreats, mentoring, and workshops that make creativity accessible as a pathway to resilience and personal growth.

Lea’s regional impact is most evident in her volunteer leadership as Chair and Artistic Director of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival, which over two years has celebrated more than 200 authors and welcomed around 2,500 attendees.

Community – group or organisation Nominee, Mooloolah Valley Community Association

This outstanding community association’s dedicated volunteers support those in need by keeping prices affordable, providing food and clothing handouts, and welcoming everyone into the shop with a warm smile. The group hosts monthly mini-markets and BBQs, while also offering financial assistance to local schools. No one is ever turned away; if they can’t help directly, they ensure people are connected to the right support services.

Local lives, lasting impact: the nominees making a difference