Australia Day Celebrations

AUSTRALIA DAY 2025

Congratulations to all award recipients

Australia Day Award Winners

Cootamundra Citizen of the Year – Loraine Gallagher

Loraine is a dedicated member of the Can Assist organisation, she has made significance contributions across several key areas, becoming an invaluable member of the Can Assist team and a compassionate supporter of those facing similar challenges. Loraine joined Can Assist following the passing of her husband Bruce three years ago. The nomination cites Loraine’s contributions to fund raising, always ready to assist with all fund raising activities the organisation holds. Loraine has contributed by offering direct support to cancer patients their families providing compassion, encouragement, and practical assistance. She displays empathy and understanding and has been a source of comfort and relief for patients navigating the challenges of cancer treatment.  Loraine efforts have helped increase awareness about the organisation mission and needs of cancer patients. The nomination is an extensive 5-page type written document, providing a detailed account of Loraine’s commitment, and contribution to an organisation that makes a real difference to people who are encountering the cancer journey and battle.

Gundagai Citizen of the Year – Carol Harris

Carol’s dedication to primary school children and her commitment to Red Cross, CWA, Uralba Hostel, Can Assist, Gundagai Show Society, Gundagai Adelong Race Club were cited in the nomination. Carol cares for people and has a sense of responsibility. Her organisational skills have earned her great respect. Carol is always ready to give a hand and is admired and respected by many and her constant work for the community of Gundagai.

Cootamundra Young Citizen of the Year – Leila Ismay

Cootamundra’s Youth Mayor, Leila has an energetic personality and has bought a positive light to youth in the region. Her passion for community had led to great ideas and activities for the youth in the community. Leila has been a huge asset to the Cootamundra Youth Council, a great member, and a great leader her nomination cited.

Gundagai Young Citizen of the Year – Samantha Crooks

Samantha is Mayor for the Gundagai Youth Council, a member of the Gundagai High School student representative Council, started a drama club at her school and sang the Australia National Anthem in front of 4000 people at the Gundagai Snake Gully Cup. Samantha’s nomination mentioned her involvement in street stalls for the school, volunteering at South Gundagai Primary School and has a part time job as a crew trainer for a national fast-food retailer. At 16 years of age Samantha contributes to her community and is a wonderful advocate for the Gundagai Youth.

Cootamundra Sportsperson of the Year – Harry Simons

Harry was nominated for his excellence in football and cricket throughout 2024. He was a member of the Under 14’s Southwest Slopes cricket grand final winning team, scoring 50 not out. Picked in the Under 14’s SWS representative side that won the Geoff Lawson cup, Harry took 4 wickets for 6 runs in the final. Harry is a 14’s Naidoc Club for FNSW representative, a member of the Cootamundra Strikers under 14’s side and Under 16’s finalist. He was the only player in the FNSW Naidoc Cup team representing the Cootamundra Strikers alongside players from metropolitan teams including Sydney. Harry has represented Cootamundra with integrity, played with heart in every sporting endeavour his nomination cited. Harry has been selected by the Wagga City Wanderers to play in the 2025 season and is playing for Murrumbidgee in the 2025 cricket season. He was awarded Players Player, Best and Fairest Player of the finals and Players Mug at Cootamundra Strikers presentation night.

Gundagai Sportsperson of the Year – Mark Elphick

Mark coached the Gundagai Tigers Reserve grade to a Group 9 premiership. Received a life membership to the club. He is always first to help and give up his time to help junior coaches train their teams. Mark has been a role model for up-and-coming sportspeople, and is always in the background fixing things, his nomination mentioned. Mark has been in 10 senior grade grand finals and has been apart of 5 winning teams. A part of the Gundagai Tigers since he was 18, Mark is currently vice president for the Gundagai Race Club, Mark has shown great commitment to sport in the Gundagai area and is well respected for his efforts.