From a community-focused developer to a young hero, a charitable duo and a brave volunteer group, this year’s Australia Day Award winners have come from all walks of life and experiences.
Held at the Bundaberg Multiplex today, the 2025 ceremony celebrated the incredible contributions of the region’s residents.
Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn said the award winners, announced across four categories, were an inspiration to all.
“Volunteers and community-minded individuals often go unrecognised, yet they are the unsung heroes who shape our future and I believe it is important that we join together to celebrate their contributions,” she said.
“Their dedication has had a positive impact, whether supporting the marginalised,
boosting our local economy, or bringing joy to others.
“Their contributions make our community stronger and more connected, making the Bundaberg Region an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”
One of the panel judges, Bundaberg Tourism CEO Katherine Reid, said the process of choosing the winners had been a heart-warming experience.
“Reading through the nominations is both humbling and inspiring,” she said.
“From volunteers dedicating their time to care for others to individuals sharing their skills to empower and uplift, and community groups driving positive change across the region, these awards shine a light on the incredible humans who make Bundaberg such a vibrant and compassionate place to live.”
The 2025 Australia Day Award winners are:
Citizen of the Year – Bill Moorhead
Bill Moorhead has been an integral part of the Bundaberg community for over 30
years, dedicating his time and efforts to supporting the region he loves.
As a land developer, Bill has created more residential blocks in Bundaberg than anyone else, providing countless locals with a place to call home.
But his contributions extend far beyond development.
Bill is an avid bird watcher, lending his expertise to bird surveys in sensitive local areas, and he’s always willing to help identify birds for residents.
His love for AFL is evident as well, having played, refereed, and provided ongoing input into local fixtures.
Bill also co-founded the Bundaberg Business Lunch, raising funds for the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal, and generously supports many other community organisations.
Bill’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated in his latest project, the Bargara Headlands Estate.
He made the decision to leave the oceanfront undeveloped, allowing the community to enjoy the natural beauty, including views of passing whales and the endangered loggerhead turtle.
His efforts in water-sensitive urban design have earned two consecutive awards for sustainability and regional development.
Bill’s next project, the rehabilitation of the old Bundaberg Quarry, will see the 250-acre site reforested, with local groups helping to plant native trees.
This project, named Charlotte’s Wood in honour of his daughter Charlotte who passed away from leukemia, is a lasting tribute to her love for nature and Bill’s legacy of giving back to the community.
Young Citizen of the Year – Jack Daw
At just 16 years old, Gin Gin’s Jack Daw has shown extraordinary courage, leadership, and dedication to his community.
In October 2024, he and his father heroically saved a man from a burning vehicle just moments before it was fully engulfed.
Beyond this life-saving act, Jack is deeply involved in emergency services—he is SES Bundaberg’s ‘Probationary Member of the Year,’ a volunteer firefighter with both the Gin Gin and Tirroan Rural Fire Brigades, and an Emergency Services Cadet with PCYC Gin Gin.
He also co-organised the 2024 Gin Gin and Region Christmas Parade, bringing the community together.
Additionally, he volunteers as a presenter on Gin Gin 104.9FM radio.
Jack’s selflessness, resilience, and leadership set an outstanding example for
youth in our region.
His dedication to public safety and community service makes him a truly deserving candidate for recognition.
Senior Citizen of the Year – Barry and Margaret Cochrane
Although couples are not usually eligible, this year, the judging panel made an exception to honour Margaret and Barry Cochrane for their extraordinary service to the Childers community.
Over the past 10 years, the Childers locals have dedicated themselves to charitable and voluntary work, bringing their extensive experience from careers in the RAAF, industry, medical practice, and education.
Their leadership spans numerous committees, including the Forest View Board, St. Joseph’s School Board, and the Isis RSL Commemorative Organising Committee.
Rooted in their deep Catholic faith, their guiding principle has always been: ‘How can we help?’
Whether supporting the elderly, preserving history, or fostering community spirit through events like the Multicultural Festival and ANZAC Day, they have enriched countless lives.
Their unwavering commitment to service makes them truly deserving of recognition.
Community group of the Year Award – Brave Brothers
Brave Brothers, founded by David Facer in 2022, is a Bundaberg-based men’s health charity dedicated to suicide prevention, domestic violence awareness, and promoting positive masculinity.
In 2024, the organisation focused on creating Brave Place safe spaces at Oodies Café, World Gym, Ken’s Kepnock Butchery, and Sexie Coffee.
Over the year, they’ve held 40 events, engaged in more than one thousand conversations, and distributed more than three thousand ‘How to Help a Mate’ cards.
Through pop-up events and outreach in high-risk areas, Brave Brothers is breaking the stigma around men’s health, ensuring that more men have a safe space to talk and seek support.
I would have preferred the Australia Day Award be held on January 🐥26th which is Australia Day.
Please table the strong support for Australia Day awards to be held on Australia Day. Thnakyou.
Australia Day should be held on Australia Day, regardless of which day of the week it falls. Australia Day should be a public holiday, and not some additional day added after it, e.g. Monday this year.
Australia Day should include a Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day, and not some other day to avoid penalty rates for staff. It is a small fee to pay for welcoming new families to our country who will contribute to our community for years and generations to come.
I have no issue with the National Award Ceremony being held on the evening before Australia Day so we can celebrate those nominated and the winners during Australia Day.
Australia Day is the 26th January.