2026 Australia Day Celebrations
Published on 26 January 2026
Walgett Shire Council proudly hosted the 2026 Australia Day celebrations in Collarenebri, with a strong community turnout coming together to reflect, recognise and celebrate what it means to be Australian.
The event marked a significant milestone for the town, with the first Australian Citizenship Ceremony held in Collarenebri in several years. Council was pleased to officially welcome Tatiana Vladimirovna as Australia’s newest citizen, celebrating the occasion alongside her local community.
Opening the ceremony, Mayor Ramien spoke about the importance of Australia Day in regional communities and acknowledged the diversity of stories that make up the nation.
“Australia is made up of people from all walks of life. We have First Nations people here today, whose connection to Country goes back thousands of generations… And we have more recent generations of Australians who came here from all around the world, for many reasons, for opportunity, for safety, for family, for a fresh start. We even have one person here with us today, starting her journey as a new Australia.”
“Different stories, one country.”
The ceremony began with a Welcome to Country by Ros McGregor, acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the land and paying respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Mayor Ramien reflected on the national theme Respect. Reflect. Celebrate., and its relevance to the Walgett Shire community.
“Respect is practical. It is how you treat people. It is how you speak. It is how you show up.”
“Reflect is about being honest about our history, the good and the hard parts, and listening to each other properly, even when views differ.”
“Celebrate is about recognising what is good in our community, and the people who keep it strong.”
2026 Australia Day Award recipients
The Australia Day Awards recognised individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to the Collarenebri and wider Walgett Shire community. These descriptions are only a brief summary of the incredible work these individuals do.
Citizen of the Year – Jenni McKenzie
Jenni McKenzie was honoured for her long-standing service across multiple community organisations, including the Walgett CWA, Walgett Show Society, Walgett Historical Society, Walgett Jockey Club, and the Walgett Bachelor and Spinsters Society. Known for her reliability, work ethic and willingness to step in wherever needed, Jenni has contributed to the smooth running of countless community events and committees. Her leadership, consistency and commitment reflect the quiet strength that keeps regional communities thriving.
Senior Citizen of the Year – Aunty Gladys Walford
Approaching her 100th birthday, Aunty Gladys has spent a lifetime nurturing family, culture and community. A respected Elder, storyteller and cultural educator, she has supported young people, strengthened identity, and contributed through decades of service with the Walgett Local Aboriginal Land Council and the Dharriwaa Elders Group. Her guidance, compassion and cultural leadership have influenced generations.
Pictured below General Manager Andrew Brown with Anne Dennis AM accepting the award on behalf of Aunty Gladys, Mayor Ramien and Clr Jane Keir OAM
Young Citizen of the Year – Vincent Hill
Vincent Hill was recognised for his leadership, reliability and positive influence across PCYC Walgett programs. From mentoring Nations of Origin teams to supporting morning fitness, school holiday programs and community events, Vincent has shown maturity beyond his years. His involvement in local sport and his commitment to uplifting younger participants demonstrate the qualities of a future community leader.
Community Champion – Aunty Faye Green OAM
Aunty Faye Green was honoured for her lifelong dedication to strengthening education, language and cultural unity. A respected Elder and cultural leader, she has played a central role in developing Yuwaalaraay language programs and promoting cultural learning across both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities. Her contributions have been recognised nationally through an Order of Australia and an Honorary Doctorate from the Australian Catholic University.
Event of the Year – Collarenebri Christmas Carols in the Park
The Collarenebri Christmas Carols have become a cherished annual tradition, bringing families, visitors and returning locals together on the banks of the Barwon River. Delivered through the combined efforts of the Collarenebri Lions Club and the Collarenebri Watersports and Fishing Club, the event reflects generosity, preparation and true community spirit. With music, food, children’s gifts and Santa arriving on the fire truck, the 2025 event created joy, connection and memories that will last for years.
Pictured from left to right: Jake, Tina, Lyn, Jill, Mayor Ramien, Clr Keir, Rob, Prue and John. (A big shout out to George and Carmel as well)
Volunteer of the Year – joint recipients: Amanda Caley and Lance McNaughton
Amanda Caley was recognised for her unwavering commitment to youth sport in Lightning Ridge. From organising merchandise and managing club operations to being the backbone of the 2025 Zone 5 Weighted Carnival—which brought more than 800 visitors to the Ridge—Amanda’s reliability, leadership and care for young people have made a lasting impact.
Lance McNaughton, RFS Captain in Cumborah and Deputy Group Captain, was honoured for his exceptional service and leadership in protecting the Shire from fire. His calm professionalism, dedication and courage—particularly following a major medical emergency during the Narren Lake fire—reflect the highest standard of volunteer service. His return to duty after a long recovery is a testament to his strength and commitment.
Mayor Ramien acknowledged the broader community contribution behind the awards.
“The awards we present today are a way of saying thank you, properly and publicly, to people who have given their time, their effort and their heart to others.”
“And I also want to say this, there are plenty of people in this Shire who will always go unrecognised. They still do the work, week in and week out. Today is for you as well.”
Australia Day Ambassador
For the second year in a row, Walgett Shire Council appointed a local Australia Day Ambassador, with Councillor Jane Keir OAM taking on the role.
In her address, Councillor Keir spoke about her deep connection to the region and the meaning of Australia Day.
“It is my honour to stand here today as your Australia Day Ambassador. Not just as a representative of this national program, but as someone who proudly calls Come By Chance home and I serve our region through Walgett Shire Council as an elected Councillor.”
She reflected on the significance of community, history and belonging.
“Australia Day is about far more than the events of a single day. It’s about who we are as a nation and who we all aspire to be.”
“We are all part of the story of Australia — from the First Australians, to the descendants of settlers, to the children of migrants, and to those who have only recently arrived.”
She also acknowledged the resilience and strength of regional communities.
“As someone who has lived my life in this region, I know the strength of our communities.”
“I see it in the way we support one another through droughts, floods, challenges and triumphs.”
Acknowledgements
Walgett Shire Council extended its sincere thanks to:
- Collarenebri Sports Club for hosting the event
- Event organisers and Council staff for their significant behind-the-scenes efforts
- Anthony Doyle for his role as Master of Ceremonies
- John Clements, representing the office of Member for Barwon Roy Butler
- All community members who attended and supported the celebration
Mayor Ramien closed the ceremony by thanking the community for their ongoing contribution.
“Thank you for being here. Thank you to everyone who helped organise today, and everyone who took the time to put forward nominations.”
“Let us enjoy the day, look out for each other, and keep building the kind of community we all want to live in, one that respects, reflects, and celebrates.”