2026 Winners
The QLD Day Awards honour the remarkable individuals and organisations who make our state extraordinary. From dedicated community volunteers to inspiring young achievers and local legends, these awards recognise those who go above and beyond for others.
The deserving recipients of the QLD Day Awards were honoured at a special ceremony at Parliament House.
Local Legends
Queensland is built on the hard work, kindness and passion of everyday heroes. From local volunteers and teachers to researchers and community champions, the Local Legends Awards recognised the incredible people who make this state great.
Thomas Pirie
For championing environmental sustainability and supporting vulnerable communities
Thomas Pirie, affectionately known as “10 Cent Tom,” has recovered 7 million containers since founding 10 Cent Tom Limited in 2020, creating jobs for people with disabilities and inspiring a grassroots movement for sustainability.
Despite living with an intellectual impairment and undergoing major spinal surgery, Tom has turned personal challenges into opportunities for others.
His Schools Breakfast Club provides meals to children in need, and his partnerships with businesses have delivered measurable environmental and social outcomes.
Wayne Reiser
For dedicating more than 60 years to the Canungra community
Wayne Reiser has dedicated over 60 years to the Canungra community, transforming the Canungra Showgrounds from a humble cow paddock into a thriving hub as President of the Canungra Sport and Recreation Grounds Committee for 35 years.
Known for his tireless fundraising efforts, Wayne has supported organisations like the Rural Fire Brigade and Canungra Bowls Club.
Wayne’s generosity, hard work, and mateship have made him a beloved figure in the Scenic Rim.
Marie Kirkby
For a lifelong commitment to veterans and their families
At 105 years old, Marie Kirkby is Queensland’s oldest RAAF nurse and a living example of resilience and service.
During World War II, she cared for wounded soldiers and later became a full-time carer for her husband, Ian, a tail gunner she nursed during the war.
Marie has supported veterans through Legacy Australia and contributed to environmental recovery by knitting jumpers for penguins affected by oil spills.
In 2026, she led the Gatton Anzac Day parade, honouring her husband and all who served. Her life of service and compassion continues to inspire her community.
Lyn Mansfield
For dedicating more than 45 years to the Gold Coast community
Lyn Mansfield has strengthened the Gold Coast community for over 45 years, securing more than $1.8 million in grants for local groups and mentoring countless volunteers.
Her leadership spans nearly 30 organisations, from youth groups to homelessness initiatives, empowering not-for-profits to thrive.
Lyn’s service began as a Cub Scout leader in the 1980s and continues today through her work with Grants Info Gold Coast, Hope Starts Here, and Women’s Cancer Support.
Her tireless efforts have built stronger communities and improved lives across the Gold Coast.
Barbara Page
For decades of service to the Townsville community
Barb Page has made an extraordinary and enduring impact on her community through decades of selfless service – notably to the Townsville City Netball Association Inc and Ronald McDonald House.
Barb has volunteered in many positions within Townsville City Netball Association Inc. over the past 29 years. Always ready to step in at a moment’s notice, Barb’s reliability to the Club has ensured the smooth running of countless events. She also volunteers as uniform coordinator for her local club and has been instrumental in organising carnivals and major community events.
As a volunteer with Ronald McDonald House North Australia, she provides comfort and support to families facing some of life’s most challenging moments, demonstrating her deep empathy and commitment to helping others.
Queensland Greats
The Queensland Greats Awards honour the trailblazing people and institutions who have left a lasting legacy for Queensland’s identity and future. They’re the quiet achievers, bold pioneers, and community champions who put Queensland, and Queenslanders, first.
Major General Stephen Day DSC AM
Individual
For his significant service and advocacy for veterans and their families
Major General Stephen Day DSC AM has made an extraordinary contribution to Queensland and Australia through his leadership, service, and advocacy for veterans and their families.
Since 2021, he has served as State President of RSL Queensland, strengthening veteran support services, promoting community connections, and championing commemoration initiatives across the state.
With a distinguished 40-year career in the Australian Army, Major General Day led operations in Africa, East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, earning widespread respect for his operational leadership.
His transition to civilian life has been marked by tireless efforts to support veterans, ensuring they and their families receive the care and recognition they deserve.
Dr Mick Power AM
Philanthropic
For fundraising towards disaster recovery, women’s sport, healthcare and veterans
Dr Mick Power AM has made an enduring contribution to Queensland as a business leader, philanthropist and community advocate.
A proud Queenslander, Mick founded BMD in 1979 and has used business success as a platform to support people, causes and communities across the State. His contribution reflects the values he holds deeply: resilience, practicality, generosity and backing others when times are tough.
More than $2.4 million is directed annually into community investment and partnerships across disaster recovery, women’s sport, education, healthcare, veterans’ services and community development. In 2026, he launched a partnership with Shake It Up Australia Foundation in honour of his late father, Dare Power, to support Parkinson’s research and awareness.
Jane Illin
Posthumous
For raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research
Jane Illin’s resilience and compassion left an indelible mark on the broader Townsville community. Diagnosed with breast cancer at 24, she turned her personal battle into a mission to support women’s health and foster community connection.
In 2013, Jane founded the Townsville “Pink Feet” fundraising group for the Mother’s Day Classic, transforming a small family walk into a major community movement.
Under her leadership, Pink Feet grew to attract up to 550 participants annually, raising over $150,000 for breast cancer research.
Even as her condition progressed, Jane championed public health services and regional access to emerging cancer therapies. Her legacy lives on through her children and the enduring impact of Pink Feet.
Sister Elizabeth Kenny
Posthumous
For pioneering polio treatment in Queensland
Sister Elizabeth Kenny revolutionised polio treatment during one of Australia’s worst outbreaks in the 1930s, laying the foundation for modern physical therapy.
Her innovative methods, including the use of hot baths, medical fomentations, and active movement for paralysed limbs, challenged conventional practices and earned her international acclaim.
Born in rural Australia in 1880, Sister Kenny began her career as a bush nurse in Nobby, Queensland, and later opened her own cottage hospital in Clifton.
Despite having no formal nursing qualifications, she trained nurses in her methods across Queensland and the United States.
Her courage and determination changed the course of medical history and helped countless individuals regain their strength and independence.
Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland (RNA)
Institution
For championing Queensland’s agricultural industry
The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026, marking its place as Queensland’s most iconic annual event and a foundation of the state’s identity.
Attracting more than 400,000 visitors each year, the Ekka showcases the best of Queensland’s agriculture, innovation, creativity, and entertainment.
The Ekka promotes connection, pride, and opportunity with the RNA and Ekka contributing $180 million annually to Brisbane’s economy and creating more than 1,000 jobs.
For generations, it has been a unifying force, bringing together families, schools, farmers, and visitors from across Queensland.
Count on a Queenslander
Count on a Queenslander honours individuals who show exceptional resilience, determination, and selflessness, often overcoming challenges to support others or achieve remarkable outcomes. It celebrates those who step up during disaster or adversity, providing critical support and embodying the strength and perseverance of the Queensland spirit.
Natalie Jarrott
For emergency response efforts in the Sunshine Coast community
Despite facing profound personal loss, Natalie Jarrott has remained a pillar of strength and service to her community.
As an Emergency Medical Dispatcher with Queensland Ambulance Service, she provides calm, compassionate support during life’s most critical moments, helping save countless lives.
Natalie is also a dedicated volunteer with the Maroochydore Surf Life Saving Club, where she serves as a Patrol Captain and committee member. Her commitment to service and leadership was recognised when she was named the 2025/26 Patrol Captain of the Year, while her team, Patrol 6, received the club’s Patrol of the Year award.
Through her leadership including Team Manager positions with the Sunshine Coast Branch and Queensland State surf life saving Teams, Natalie mentors emerging talent and volunteers, encouraging confidence, personal growth and teamwork while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for athletes and lifesavers.
Alina Graham
For dedicating more than 35 years to disaster recovery and fundraising in South West Queensland
During the devastating 2025 floods, Alina Graham mobilised over $180,000 in emergency funding and supplies for remote communities like Adavale and Thargomindah, personally delivering relief and assessing ongoing needs.
This extraordinary contribution to South-West Queensland was made possible through her leadership in disaster recovery, community development, and water safety.
As Treasurer of Quilpie Sport and Recreation Inc., Alina was instrumental in securing a $2 million grant to expand local facilities, creating spaces for women and girls to participate in sport and providing vital services like allied health consultation rooms.
With over 35 years of experience in the aquatic industry, she has trained and mentored countless individuals in water safety, positioning Queensland as a leader in drowning prevention.
Russell Wall
For dedicating 50 years to the State Emergency Service
Russell Wall has dedicated 50 years to the State Emergency Service (SES), serving through storms, floods, and emergencies since the 1974 Brisbane floods.
His steadfast commitment has inspired generations of SES volunteers, including his four children, who have followed in his footsteps.
Russell’s exceptional service has been recognised with the National Emergency Medal and the Emergency Service National Response Medal.
From filling thousands of sandbags during Cyclone Alfred to mentoring new volunteers, Russell’s quiet leadership and resilience have made him a cornerstone of his community. Despite recent health challenges, he continues to share his knowledge and contribute to the SES, embodying the true spirit of service.
Thomas Sugget
For volunteering efforts with St John Ambulance
Thomas Sugget has volunteered over 3,700 hours with St John Ambulance, making an outstanding contribution to disaster response, youth empowerment, and community first aid.
He led the redevelopment of the St John Ambulance Youth Program in Queensland, inspiring a new generation of young people to explore careers in healthcare.
Thomas has played a critical role in disaster recovery, including supervising night shifts during the St John response to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
As State Strategy and Capability Manager, he revitalised St John’s Event Health Services, driving membership growth and improving the organisation’s capacity to respond to events of all sizes.
His leadership and dedication have strengthened St John’s impact across Queensland.