Council announces Australia Day Award Winners for 2025
Published on 24 January 2025
The outstanding work of nine individuals and community groups were recognised at the Rockhampton Regional Council’s Australia Day Award Ceremony, held at the Rockhampton Heritage Village last night.
The night also coincided with Council’s first citizenship ceremony for the year, as the Region welcomed 23 new Australians.
Mayor Tony Williams honoured the winners, as Christine Dobele was named as the 2025 Citizen of the Year and Jarryd Lebeter was awarded the Young Citizen of the Year for 2025.
“The ceremony is always such a great event as we recognise the extraordinary work of key individuals and groups within our community,” Mayor Williams said.
“This is our way of saying thanks for all they’ve done to make a positive impact on our community.
“Our Region wouldn’t be what it is without their efforts and the awards are a testament to all they’ve done to help make this a great place to live.
“We applaud all the award winners and commend them for a job well done.”
Deputy Mayor and Communities, Culture and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson said he was pleased to be a member of the judging panel again this year and thanked his fellow judges for volunteering their time.
“It is always an honour to be on the panel and we were once again blown away by the quality and quantity of nominations,” Cr Wickerson said.
“The quality of the nominations certainly made our job very difficult, but what a wonderful problem to have.”
Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said the awards spanned various categories and included a new category this year, the 2025 Mayoral Commendation for Civic Excellence which was awarded to The Shelter Collective.
“The Mayor’s Commendation for Civic Excellence recognises a project that has delivered outstanding outcomes, demonstrating remarkable leadership, generosity, and compassion while leaving a lasting and positive impact on the community,” Cr Rutherford said.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate someone; your efforts helped highlight their outstanding contributions for our consideration.”
After being named the 2025 Citizen of the Year, Christine Dobele said the honour came as a surprise, particularly knowing the calibre of volunteers who were in the room.
“I was in good company, there were so many nominations in all of the categories,” Mrs Dobele said.
“We have these celebrations because of those who volunteer. All the people nominated volunteer for something so it’s wonderful to celebrate that.”
Jarryd Lebeter said it was a nice acknowledgement to be awarded Young Citizen of the Year, following 14 years of dedication to his sport.
“I’ve been training since I was 10 and it’s been a really long time but last year it was definitely one of my best years so far,” Mr Lebeter said.
“It was really exciting to be named the Young Citizen of the Year, I didn’t expect it but it’s a good feeling.”
Dignitaries who also joined in on the prestigious awards evening included, The Honorable Michelle Landry MP, Shadow Assistant Minister and Member for Capricornia, State Member for Keppel Nigel Hutton, Assistant Minister and State Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland, State Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, and Australia Day Ambassador Carmel Crouch.
The 2025 Australia Day Award Winners include:
2025 Citizen of the Year - Christine Dobele
Christine Dobele has been key to the Rockhampton community, dedicating decades of selfless service to initiatives that promote health, inclusivity, and local engagement, such as the U3A Saturday Walk and Chat Group and Stockland Striders Heart Foundation Walking Group. Her leadership extends to roles with the Queensland Cancer Council, local arts and culture events, and environmental and community volunteer work, making her a deserving recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award for her lasting impact on the region.
2025 Young Citizen of the Year - Jarryd Lebeter
Jarryd Lebeter is an accomplished young leader in Shotokan Karate, having progressed from White Belt to 3rd Dan Black Belt and mentoring the next generation of karate practitioners. In 2024, he achieved remarkable success, winning 14 Gold Medals in major competitions and representing Australia internationally, including a Gold medal at the SKIF Pan American Titles in Mexico, while also contributing to the karate community as a referee and technical team member.
Sportsperson of the Year - Shane Iker
Shane Iker has dedicated over 33 years to rodeo, earning numerous national titles and holding the record for the most titles in the Central Rodeo Cowboys Association, while also revitalising the Australian Professional Rodeo Association during his leadership. Beyond his competition success, Shane has been a mentor, bringing the National Rodeo Finals to Gracemere and continuing to inspire the local community with his passion for the sport.
Sports Official of the Year - Rod Pratt
Rod Pratt has been a key figure in the Rockhampton Touch Association for decades, founding the region's first Junior Touch competition in 1989 and developing one of Queensland’s top Junior Development Programs. His dedication to coaching, mentoring players, and developing referees has had a lasting impact on the sport, with many of his players reaching state and national levels, earning him Life Member status and induction into the Hall of Fame.
Community Service - David Grenfell OAM
David Grenfell has dedicated over three decades to addressing critical local challenges, including the skills shortage and housing crisis, through his leadership and involvement in initiatives like The Shelter Collective. His work, particularly with the ARC-20 project providing housing for women and families facing homelessness, has had a profound impact on the community, fostering a sense of responsibility and transforming lives through innovative solutions and unwavering commitment.
Arts & Culture Award - Dr Les Killion
Dr. Les Killion has been a dedicated volunteer for over 40 years, playing key roles in the Rockhampton Eisteddfod, from section convenor to president, and significantly contributing to its growth and prominence. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment to fostering community pride in the arts have made a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of Rockhampton, inspiring future generations of young performers.
Community Initiative/Event - Rockhampton Riding for the Disabled Association
For over 30 years, the Rockhampton Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) has made a meaningful impact by offering tailored programs that provide physical, social, and psychological benefits to individuals with a range of challenges. Through the dedication of its volunteers, the RDA has created a welcoming, inclusive community that empowers participants, with many former riders returning as volunteers to support future generations.
2025 Mayoral Commendation for Civic Excellence - The Shelter Collective
The Shelter Collective has been awarded the Mayoral Commendation for Civic Excellence in recognition of their transformative work in addressing homelessness and housing affordability in Rockhampton. Through innovative projects like Shelteristic Communities, ARC Projects, and outreach initiatives such as MOBi, they have created pathways to stability, supported vulnerable groups, and made a lasting impact on the community.
Community Service Commendation - Peter Curtis
Peter Curtis has dedicated over 60 years of service to the Agricultural Show movement, significantly impacting Rockhampton and Central Queensland. Through his leadership, expertise, and tireless volunteer work, he has played a key role in the success of events like the Rockhampton Show, leaving a legacy in the community.