Media Release - Outstanding Citizens and Events Recognised
Australia Day Awards recognise outstanding contributions across The Flinders Ranges Council area.
The Flinders Ranges Council is proud to announce the recipients of this year's Australia Day Awards, recognising individuals and organisations who have made exceptional contributions to their communities and the broader region.
The awards, which were presented on Australia Day, honour those whose dedication, service, and leadership have had a lasting impact on the community.
The recipients of the 2025 Australia Day Awards are:
- Citizen of the Year: Catherine Burt
- Catherine devotes a lot of her time to assisting various community events and organisations and is working on a project to preserve Hawker’s history through written booklets and historical exhibitions.
- Young Citizens of the Year: Eric Brereton and Lachlan Finlay
- Eric and Lachlan showed valiant bravery rescuing the pilot of a gyrocopter that crashed at the Quorn Racecourse in August 2024. They didn’t think twice about putting their own safety at risk with their quick thinking saving the life of the pilot.
- Community Event of the Year: Rural Aid Quorn Community Day
- Held on 10 November 2024 the Rural Aid Quorn Community Day brought together around 150 local farmers and community members offering a much-needed social outlet during the ongoing dry conditions. The worst for 150 years.
- Active Citizens of the Year: Stefanie Teague and Robyn McInnis
- Stefanie and Robyn were recognised for their efforts in getting the Hawker Kids Club up and running and giving their own time so that families can enjoy social interactions and activities.
- Certificate of Appreciation: Hawker’s Family Fun Day
- Organised by the Hawker Promotions Committee and supported by the Hawker Community Development Board, the 2024 Hawker’s Family Fun Day provided activities and entertainment that enabled everyone to be part of a positive community event.
- Certificate of Appreciation: David Reubenicht (awarded posthumously)
- David was recognised for his stellar volunteer contribution to the community including the Quorn Pioneer Machinery Society where his many initiatives were realised through his unique style of leadership and relentless drive. These included restoring vintage machinery to working order, the Quorn RV Park and the Avenue of Honour.
Mayor Ken Anderson said the awards highlight the strength of community spirit and the passion of those who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others within The Flinders Ranges Council area. “These remarkable individuals and groups demonstrate the very best of what it means to be part of a close-knit, vibrant region and I thank them for what they have done to make our communities better places to live and work.”
Australia Day events were held across The Flinders Ranges Council region in Quorn, Hawker and Cradock.