Australia Day Awards
Redland City Council has paid special recognition to the city’s high achieving residents and community organisations at the 2026 Redlands Coast Australia Day Awards.
The annual awards acknowledge those who have given freely of their time, knowledge and enthusiasm to promote the welfare and wellbeing of the Redlands Coast community.
A total of 16 individuals and groups were recognised across eight award categories, with both the mainland and islands represented among the recipients.
The winners were:
Citizen of the Year
Colin Sutcliffe OAM
Colin’s contributions to the community span education, aged care, social support and volunteerism. As a long-serving leader in Rotary, STAR Community Services and Mangrove Housing, he has championed literacy, inclusion and social support for seniors, families and disadvantaged residents. He has also served as the Executive Director of Bayside Schools and Colleges for Education Queensland and as Foundation Head of Junior School at Faith Lutheran College, Redlands, helping to establish the junior campus and shape the early years of schooling on Redlands Coast. In recognition of his service to both education and the community, Colin was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia in the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours. A collaborative and compassionate leader, Colin inspires others to get involved in their community.
Citizen of the Year, Special Commendation
Adrian Reavley
A proud veteran and successful local business owner, Adrian has spent more than 20 years strengthening the Redlands Coast community through his professional, volunteer and charitable contributions. As Vice President of the Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, he has supported local businesses and championed initiatives that promote local growth and connection. His six years as Treasurer of the Redland Bay State School P&C have seen record fundraising achievements and the creation of a pioneering First Aid program for children. He has consistently supported not-for-profit organisations, particularly those raising funds for cancer and heart disease research. Adrian also dedicates his time to coaching and managing local sports teams, and is respected for his humility, reliability and generosity.
Senior Citizen of the Year
Tony Christinson
Tony has been a central figure in the success and growth of the Donald Simpson Centre, contributing countless volunteer hours over many years. As a hands-on leader and former Board Chair, Tony has driven improvements in infrastructure, expanded activity offerings and played a key role in community engagement. His practical wisdom, generosity and calm demeanour have earned him respect from members, volunteers, staff and community partners. Tony has supported everything from daily operations to strategic advocacy, including assisting with major grant applications and helping to secure funding for programs tackling social isolation among older people. His impact is felt not just in what he has done, but how he does it, always with humility, warmth and a commitment to service.
Senior Citizen of the Year, Special Commendation
Christopher Gilbert
Christopher is a community leader whose vision, empathy and commitment have led to transformations in the cultural life of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and Redlands Coast more broadly. As President of the Macleay Island Arts Complex (MIAC) from 2019 to 2024, he led the creation of a purpose-built arts facility that now serves as a hub for artists, volunteers and residents of all ages. Christopher’s commitment to inclusion and creativity has inspired countless individuals to get involved. His legacy is not only a new island arts hub, but a more connected community that continues to flourish because of his belief in the power of creativity to bring people together. Christopher’s genuine kindness and willingness to listen have earned him deep trust within the island community.
Young Citizen of the Year
Malakai Keen
Malakai is a compassionate and dedicated young leader. His deep sense of community led him to join the Redlands SES Unit in 2023, where he has so far logged more than 1500 hours of service across volunteer and operational duties. He is highly regarded within the SES and, in 2025, received the Brisbane SES Region Young Member of the Year award in recognition of his exceptional commitment and leadership. While at Cleveland District State High School, Malakai served as a School Captain, volunteered in a venue and media management role, and provided mentoring on leadership to other students. He was the recipient of the 2022 Rotary Club Cleveland Youth Leadership Award and recently earned Highly Commended in the Young Member of the Year category at the state SES awards.
Young Citizen of the Year, Special Commendation
Noah Margetts
Noah is a community-driven leader who is dedicated to public service and social betterment. As the Youth Minister for Justice, Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Policing and Corrective Services in the 30th YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, Noah led a ministerial team, worked with experts and community members, and introduced the 2025 Youth Criminal Code Amendment Act, a bill aimed at protecting children from exploitation which is now under review by the Queensland Parliament. He continues to serve the community as an Assistant Electorate Officer and is involved with the Lions Youth Project and the Vanuatu Library Project, supporting both local and international causes. Noah is not only capable of taking initiative but also of empowering others to find their voice and contribute to positive change.
Local Hero Award
Judy Lindsay
After losing her daughter in a fatal road incident in 2009, Judy has dedicated herself to educating drivers of all ages – particularly youth – about road safety while also advocating for legislative change. Judy offers her support to other parents who have lost loved ones in road incidents and proactively engages the community in driver education initiatives. This has included partnering with police at roadside breath tests in regional Queensland and co-sharing stands at community events. Judy has also worked closely with CARS (counselling and support groups) and has presented at local schools to spread awareness about road safety to teenagers, recognising the importance of reaching out to young drivers. Through her dedication to raising public awareness about road safety, Judy continues to create positive change in the community.
Local Hero Award, Special Commendation
Kieron Douglass
Kieron has spent more than a decade giving back to the Redlands Coast community through various endeavours, including running hundreds of kilometres to help raise money for sick children. He openly shares his mental health journey with high school students, inspiring them to keep moving forward, and has also featured his story in Runner’s World magazine and on Channel 9’s My Way program. Kieron carried the Queen’s Baton through Cleveland in 2018 and dedicates some of his own time to cleaning up local reserves. From running cross country at age 13 in steel-cap boots because he didn’t have shoes, to now being a sponsored athlete, Kieron has lived a life of resilience, humility and service. His dedication, kindness and ability to inspire others make him a highly valued member of the community.
Community Organisation Award (joint winners)
Redlands Coast Museum
Redlands Coast Museum aims to collect, preserve, honour and share the rich history and stories of the Redlands Coast region. The museum is a hub for discovery, interaction and cultural exchange for all ages, and has become a highlight for visitors to Redlands Coast. Established in the 1970s with a focus on old vehicles and farm machinery, the museum now has 149 volunteers and five staff at the heart of its operations. It continues to showcase significant artefacts and personal stories from the past and present and has a mission of being the trusted keepers of the community’s social history. The museum is committed to making a significant contribution to the tourism industry of the region in the years ahead.
Rotary Club of Capalaba and Rotary Club of Wellington Point:
Wellington Point Rotary Club and Capalaba Rotary Club are dedicated community service organisations committed to making a positive impact locally, nationally and globally. The clubs have demonstrated outstanding community leadership through initiatives such as VP Day Reflections and Peace Pole installation. By honouring veterans with dignity and involving schools, youth and multicultural groups, the clubs have created inclusive, educational and meaningful commemorations for the community. The Peace Pole dedication stands as a permanent symbol of hope and harmony that helps to reflect Rotary’s global vision of peace. Their efforts have not only preserved local history but have inspired ongoing community engagement and understanding. Members of both clubs are passionate about community service and the advancement of goodwill and peace.
Community Organisation Award, Special Commendation
Capalaba District Meals on Wheels
Capalaba Meals on Wheels has been a valued and trusted organisation within the Redlands Coast community since 1975. With the support of 55 dedicated volunteers, the organisation has provided thousands of nutritious meals and regular social connection to those who are elderly, isolated or in need of support. Their compassion, reliability and service have made a lasting difference to the wellbeing and independence of local residents and other members of the community. This long-standing contribution reflects the Australian spirit of care and community. A clear example of their commitment came during Cyclone Alfred in 2025 when the service had no power for six days, yet volunteers continued showing up to ensure clients received hot meals.
Cultural Award
Play it Forward Australia Ltd
Play It Forward is an arts charity that provides inclusive choir programs on Redlands Coast and beyond. These programs have involved more than 500 local singers and are not only helping to shape the artistic landscape on Redlands Coast, but are also setting the highest standards for choral music. Underlining Play It Forward’s commitment to social equality, the organisation has undertaken significant fundraising endeavours within the community, resulting in donations of more than $18,000 in 2025 alone. Play it Forward choirs are un-auditioned, accessible and inclusive, providing an artistic activity which promotes emotional and social wellbeing. The group has achieved various accolades and has been announced as a Redland Performing Arts Centre Project Partner for the next two years.
Cultural Award, Special Commendation
Redland Sinfonia
Redland Sinfonia has been performing orchestral music in the Redlands Coast community for 40 years. The Sinfonia perform at least four concerts annually in the city, most at Redland Performing Arts Centre where they are a member of the Company in Residence program. The group includes a variety of music genres in their programs, from symphonies and concertos to musicals, film scores, jazz and rock. The Sinfonia is currently made up of between 40 and 50 musicians but has provided opportunites to hundreds of talented local musicians throughout the years, allowing them to improve their skills and meet like-minded people. All Sinfonia concerts are well presented and professionally run, allowing Redlands Coast residents to experience quality orchestral music without leaving the city.
Sports Award
Georgia Harris
Georgia is an exceptional young sprinter whose dedication and athletic excellence have positioned her as one of Redlands Coast’s most promising emerging athletes. A double World University Games gold medallist, Griffith University Blues Award recipient, and finalist for the 2025 Redlands Coast Emerging Athlete of the Year, Georgia has represented Redlands Coast on both the national and international stage. Her resilience in overcoming injuries is just one example of her strength and determination. Beyond her athletic achievements, Georgia is a proud representative of the community and a role model for young athletes. She dedicates her time to coaching students, promoting healthy lifestyles and raising awareness as an epilepsy sports ambassador. Her character, humility and passion for helping others demonstrate leadership far beyond the track.
Sports Award, Special Commendation
Redlands Special Olympics Football
Redlands Special Olympics Football is a welcoming and inclusive club that creates opportunities for people living with disabilities to learn new skills and enjoy soccer in a supportive setting. The club is part of Special Olympics Redlands and is committed to growing its reach, regularly seeking new members and engaging with the Redlands Coast community at fundraising events and competitions. Training sessions every Monday focus on developing techniques and teamwork, with coaches dedicated to helping players improve their skills and succeed in the sport. Those involved with Redlands Special Olympics Football ensure everyone has the chance to play, belong and thrive, creating a positive environment for participants and everyone who shares their passion both on and off the field.
Environment and Sustainability Award
Mount Cotton Riders Alliance
The Mount Cotton Riders Alliance (MCRA) has shown outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable recreation through its partnership with Redland City Council’s Trailcare Program. The dedicated volunteers have invested countless hours restoring trails and protecting native habitats, ensuring the Mount Cotton trail network remains safe and enjoyable for everyone. Beyond environmental work, MCRA has created a strong and inclusive community for people of all ages. The focus on education and sustainability has not only improved the health of local ecosystems but also strengthened connections between people and nature. MCRA leads by example and continues inspiring others to enjoy and care for natural spaces.
View (PDF, 323KB)previous winners(PDF, 155KB) .
For more information please contact Council’s events team at events@redland.qld.gov.au.