Australia Day

Mic Julien

Mic dedicates himself to making his community safer and better. He manages local crown lands and secures grants for playgrounds, skateparks and campgrounds while also volunteering with the Rural Fire Service and Tyalgum Scratchers gardening group.

As a member of the Community Resilience Team, he secured a grant to establish a radio repeater station, improving disaster response communication between Tyalgum and surrounding towns.

His work enhancing emergency preparedness has strengthened our community’s ability to face future challenges.

Our community relies on leaders like Mic to protect our spaces and help the Tweed thrive.

Watch the video for Citizen of the Year winner – Mic Julien.

Tweed Coast Band

For over 30 years, the talented Tweed Coast Band community group has been hitting all the right notes.

The band creates a space where retired musicians can connect through sing-along-worthy hits.

Whether they're energising local markets, joining collaborative concerts, or warming hearts in retirement villages, their music leaves a lasting impression.

Watch the video for the Arts and Culture winner - Tweed Coast Band.

Murwillumbah Youth Action Group – Murbah Youth Fest event

The Murwillumbah Youth Action Group’s Murbah Youth Fest created a safe and welcoming space where youth connected, enjoyed local performances and accessed drug and alcohol education.

Behind the scenes, youth organisers develop their leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills to bring the wonderful event to life.

Watch the video for the Community Event of the Year – Murwillumbah Youth Action Group.

Phil Eizenberg

Known for his energy and passion, Phil actively promotes mental health and physical activity in our community.

From teaching karate in Stokers Siding and starting an old-time music group in Murwillumbah to volunteering with the Rescue Association during disasters and fundraising for overseas relief with his musical skills, Phil actively helps our community thrive.

Watch the video for Senior Ambassador winner – Phil Eizenberg.

There were joint winners for the Sporting Achievement of the Year – Individual award.

Dane Henry

Dane is a Fingal Head-born surfer who made waves in the surfing world in 2024. He captained Australia to a team and individual win at the ISA under-18 world junior championships, won the Australian Open Men's title and ticked off a major bucket-list item of landing a backflip in competition. Beyond his achievements, he helps our youth surfers thrive with mentoring and coaching sessions.

Watch the video for Sporting Achievement of the Year – Individual winner (joint) – Dane Henry.

Isabella Millar

At the age of 16, local Murwillumbah swimmer Isabella was the only female athlete to represent the Solomon Islands at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She balanced school and training while stepping up with one week's notice to compete against the world’s best. Isabella has become a role model for youth and inspires others at her local Tweed Regional Aquatic Centre.

Watch the video for Sporting Achievement of the Year – Individual winner (joint) – Isabella Millar.

U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball Representative team

The U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball team were the first in more than 20 years to represent the Tweed in the North Eastern Junior League. Their determination led them to an incredible victory over the undefeated Maitland Mustangs, earning them the championship title. Their success has put the Tweed back on the basketball map and inspired local youth to join the sport.

Watch the video for Sporting Achievement of the Year – Group winner – U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball Representative team.

Gary Setchell

For more than 14 years, Gary Setchell has helped disadvantaged people in Murwillumbah access basic needs such as food, a shower, laundry and blankets. He has devoted his time and energy to managing volunteers at Nullum House – a local community drop-in centre – and creating a safe space for people in need. Gary is celebrated by his colleagues for his kindness and compassion.

Watch the video for the Volunteer of the Year – Individual winner – Gary Setchell.

Tyalgum Scratchers

The Tyalgum Scratchers created and now maintain the iconic Coolman Street in Tyalgum. Their gardens have become a must-see attraction that adds to Tyalgum’s charm. The group creates a space for locals to stay active, connect and bring a sense of community pride to Tyalgum. The Scratchers are a hallmark of the Tweed community’s spirit – protecting our natural environment and making our shared spaces thrive.

Watch the video for the Volunteer of the Year – Group winner – Tyalgum Scratchers.

Jeff Dunne

In 2024, Jeff Dunne became the first Australian male to represent Australia at the Olympics for breakdancing.

The 16-year-old Casuarina local took his platform to the next level, advocating for underfunded sports. He has spoken on panel discissions, helped local sporting organisations get grants and shared tips on self-fundraising in sports.

Jeff is a regular motivational speaker, inspiring our youth to dream big and achieve their goals.

Watch the video for the Young Achiever in Community Service winner – Jeff Dunne.