The Junee community proudly recognises its nominees for the 2025 Australia Day Awards, honouring outstanding individuals and teams for their contributions and achievements.
Citizen of the Year Nominees
• Peter Commens: President of the Junee Show Society for 30 years, active in Rotary, and a NSW Rural Fire Service member, Peter was recently awarded the NSW Government Community Service Award.
• Rochelle Wood: A police officer and community advocate, Rochelle participates in sports and charity events, including the Move4LifeRide for Can Assist.
• Gayle Allanson: With 16 years in animal rescue, Gayle has nursed and rehomed hundreds of animals while supporting local families.
• Cheryl Carter: Cheryl supports education and community through reading groups, scripture classes, and contributions to organisations like the CWA and Illabo Show Society.
• Lola Cummins: Serving for over 40 years, Lola has contributed to Rotary, Red Cross, and CWA, earning an OAM for her dedication to Junee.
Young Citizen of the Year Nominee
• Thomas McDermott: A Year 11 student, Thomas is recognised for his involvement in Anzac services, Landcare, Can Assist, and the Junee RSL Sub-Branch.
Team of the Year Nominees
• Junee Business and Trades (Christmas on Broadway Team): Celebrating 10 years, this team organises Junee’s premier festive event, showcasing local talent and supporting charities.
• Junee Social Yarners: This craft group creates handmade items for charities, spreading warmth and connection.
• St Joseph’s Cross-Country Team: These young athletes achieved outstanding success, winning their regional competition.
• Junee Ambulance Station Paramedics: Recognised for their lifesaving work and compassionate community involvement.
• Junee Bowling Club Volunteer Greenkeepers: Graeme Oehm and Michael Poole transformed the club’s greens, boosting membership and hosting regional events.
Arts and Community Award Nominee
• Shannon Oke: Founder of So Dance Junee, Shannon inspires creativity and community through dance, leading performances locally and internationally.
Sports Award Nominees
• Maddie Hazel: A lawn bowls champion, Maddie has represented NSWCHS and the NSW State Team, earning national medals.
• Rylee Henderson: A multi-sport star excelling in rugby, AFL, and athletics, Rylee represents Australia and will compete internationally.
• William McGrath: President of Junee Jaguars Soccer Club and Junee Cricket Club, William also represents NSW and Australia in cerebral palsy soccer, competing at the World Championships in Spain.
Junee is proud of these inspiring individuals and teams, for their spirit of community and excellence.Winners will be announced on Australia Day 2025.
