Australia Day

A rodeo and show society volunteering queen, an inspiring young leader in the making, a bush school’s 150th anniversary, and a small country pub’s big community heart were among the 2025 Isaac Region Australia Day Award winners announced on 25 January. 

Kate Flohr was named Citizen of the Year for her pivotal work with the Clermont Rodeo and Show Society. Serving as secretary and treasurer, she ensured events ran smoothly while fostering community spirit. 

Since 2011, Kate had been an integral part of the committee that organises one of Queensland’s oldest agricultural shows, stepping in to fill vacant positions and ensuring the event's success each year. 

Corbin Wood, Moranbah State High School’s 2024 Captain, received the Young Citizen of the Year award for excelling not only in his academics but also in his community service, proving that passion and dedication can bring meaningful change to the community. 

The Community Event of the Year was awarded to the Nebo State School 150th Celebrations. Volunteers from the school’s P&C, along with teachers, staff, and students, organised an anniversary filled with rich history. The event included a reunion dinner, historical displays, and a fun fair, which greatly strengthened community spirit. 

Grant and Kerry-Anne Quantock of the Carmila Hotel were honoured with the Corporate Community Contribution of the Year award. Their deep commitment to the community was evident through their championing of rural sports, raising $2,000 for medical needs, and fostering a strong sense of unity. 

The Spirit of Isaac Award went to Anne Ahern of Dysart, a dedicated advocate for vulnerable children. Her tireless support, compassion, and organisation of impactful events over many years embodied true selflessness. 

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea congratulated the five major award winners, seven community champions, and seven Mayor’s Award recipients. 

“Across our 17 unique communities, we know that everyday people are doing extraordinary things. These awards tell stories of dedication, selflessness, and Isaac’s community spirit,” Mayor Vea Vea said. 

“This Australia Day weekend, we recognised and celebrated those who give their time, commitment, and care to make our region a great place to live, work, and raise families.” 

The 2025 Isaac Region Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony also welcomed 21 new Australian citizens in Moranbah. The 2026 event is planned to be held in Clermont as part of a new rotation, hosting it in the hometown of the previous Citizen of the Year winner. 

Fifteen events were held at local pools and clubs on 26 January 2025. Highlights included the popular Australia Day parade in Clermont. 

LIST OF OUR OTHER WINNERS FROM THE 2025 ISAAC REGION AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS 

Mayor’s Award: 

  • Toni Linke (Coast - Carmila & St Lawrence) 

  • Matthew Martin (Clermont) 

  • Rhiannon Rowe (Dysart) 

  • Jayke Hiles (Glenden) 

  • Middlemount Race Club (Middlemount) 

  • Terry Kerr (Moranbah) 

  • Cherry Paine (Nebo) 

  • Community Champion Award: 

  • Carmila RSL (Coast - Carmila & St Lawrence) 

  • Grant Oswald (Clermont) 

  • Richelle Styles (Dysart) 

  • Kristen Cant (Glenden) 

  • Peter Quinn (Middlemount) 

  • Lindsay Chicken and Simone Myles (Moranbah) 

  • Richard Bethel (Nebo)