Congratulations to our 2026 Australia Day Award Recipients!
With Mayor Mary Duniam, we are pleased to announce the following recipients of the Australia Day awards:
Citizen of the Year – Jonathan Vincent
Jonathan “Jono” Vincent is a true inspiration to young people in our community. Volunteering countless hours at the Boat Harbour Beach Surf Life Saving Club where he teaches vital water safety skills and encourages healthy, active lifestyles. Jono also played a pivotal role in bringing the Sisters Beach Skate Park to life, actively consulting with youth to ensure their voices were heard. His leadership and dedication as a former President of the Sisters Beach Community Association have left a lasting impact on our region.
Young Citizen of the Year – Belle Lohrey
Belle Lohrey’s achievements in cheerleading are extraordinary. Just before turning 18, she coached her youth novice team, The Wynyard Wildcatz, to become Tasmanian State Champions, earning a bid to compete in Orlando, Florida, where they became International Champions. Now 19, Belle is Head Coach at Burnie Tigers Cheerleading guiding six competitive teams, while representing Australia at the Cheerleading World Championships. Her dedication, leadership, and passion continue to inspire young athletes across the region.
(Unfortunately, due to prior commitments, Belle was unable to attend on the day.)
Community Event of the Year – Permission to Trespass (Business Northwest)
On behalf of the organisations, Cyndia Hilliger and Wendy Page accepted the award, earned for its success in celebrating creativity, connection and local culture through winter events across Wynyard and Table Cape. Created by six local business owners, Permission to Trespass brings the community together through unique experiences, from the Moonlight Stories lighthouse projection to the Gather and Glow Main Street Market. Over three years, it has transformed winter into a season of celebration, supporting local enterprise and showcasing the region’s creativity and spirit.