Wattle Range Council is excited to honour the ‘Local Legends’ in our community this Australia Day with a series of special celebrations across the region.
Complimentary Australia Day breakfasts will be held on Monday, January 26, starting at 8 am. Local Service Clubs will provide catering at Beachport’s Centennial Park, Glencoe Public Hall, Jubilee Park in Millicent, and Penola’s War Memorial Park.
The award ceremonies will commence at 9 am in Beachport, Glencoe, Penola and Millicent.
“These awards are a wonderful opportunity to express our gratitude for the volunteers who dedicate their time and effort across a wide range of activities,” said Wattle Range Council Mayor, Des Noll.
“We invite everyone to come along, bring a picnic rug or chair, and join us in celebrating the achievements of these extraordinary individuals on our national day.”
In attendance at the Millicent event this year will be Australia Day Ambassador Amber Brock-Fabel, Founder of the South Australian Youth Forum and 2025 South Australian Young Australian of the Year, who will announce the Wattle Range Council Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year Award recipient.
Mayor Noll will attend the breakfast in Millicent and officiate a citizenship ceremony at which five new Aussies will be welcomed.
Later that day, further festivities will be hosted by the community of Tantanoola at an event featuring fun and games for the entire family.
Australia Day is an occasion to come together to celebrate our diversity, respect what makes us unique and reflect on the Australia we aspire to be.
Mayor, Des Noll is proud to announce this year’s recipients in the following categories:
Wattle Range Council Citizen of the Year Recipients
Citizen of the Year – Janet Brodie
Janet Brodie is recognised as the Wattle Range Council Citizen of the Year for her dedication to the Wattle Range community. Her generosity, humility, and tireless efforts have supported people of all ages and backgrounds, creating opportunities and leaving a lasting legacy of kindness. Janet is actively involved in a number of community groups and initiatives including CWA Penola Terra Rossa branch, Penola AH & P Society, Stand Like Stone Penola/Coonawarra Sub Branch, Kindergym, school committees, netball, swim club, the Penola Hospital and Pinchunga garden upgrade and maintenance and the Penola Medical Support Group where she played a pivotal role in the Penola Hospital nurses accommodation refurbishment. Janet has run the recycled garden art competition for the Penola Show for many years encouraging creativity and environmental sustainability. Sharing her skills and knowledge through quiet and meaningful actions, Janet’s enthusiasm and inclusivity brings the community together.
Active Citizen of the Year – Elizabeth Groom
Elizabeth has been recognised for her enduring persistence and concern for public safety with the successful realignment and construction of the turn off from Southern Ports Highway on to the Southend Access Road. Elizabeth has a long record of community involvement through volunteering for 23 years with St Johns receiving the 'Serving Sister Award' for 20 years of service. From playing the piano at Mary Cecelia Hart Court, the Baptist Church and performing as a member of the Millicent Choral Society, her contributions span music education, community health initiatives, and leadership. As a member of the Southend Progress Association, Elizabeth was instrumental in having a defibrillator installed at the CFS shed for community access and provided training for its use.
Young Citizen of the Year – Cory O’Connor
Cory is the Agriculture and Science Teacher at the Penola High School. Through a dynamic, hands-on agriculture program, Cory is empowering students and inspiring future agricultural leaders. He was the recipient of the Excellence in Learner Agency Award and instrumental in Penola winning the Agricultural Town of the Year Award in 2024. Cory is heavily involved in the Penola Show and was an entrant for the Stand like Stone Foundation's, Swinging with the Stars in 2024.
Community Event of the Year – Awarded to Miss Managed Events for their event ‘Keepin It Real for The Community Christmas Appeal’
This October event brought together local bands and over 160 attendees at Beachport Bowling Club, raising $3,330 for the Millicent Community Christmas Appeal. It showcased community spirit through music, affordable tickets, and volunteer support.
Wattle Range Council Youth Recognition Awards
Contribution to Community – Holly Lowndes
Holly Lowndes will be celebrated for her generous contribution to the community. At just 16, Holly has already made a remarkable impact, she has held leadership roles at both primary and high school and continues to make a difference beyond the classroom. Holly serves on the Mt Burr Netball Club committee, volunteers with Girl Guides, and introduced a new under-school-age program for Little Athletics. Whether assisting on the family farm or supporting local events, Holly’s generosity and initiative shine through. Her dedication and positive attitude make her an inspiring role model for young people across Wattle Range.
Learning Success – Jack Francis
Jack Francis promotes inclusion and support for peers with disabilities, mentors young athletes, and contributes to local sport as a coach and committee member. His leadership fosters confidence and community connection across Wattle Range. Jack’s leadership also extends into the wider community through his involvement in local sport serving as Assistant Coach of the Mt Burr Junior Colts, Vice Captain of the B Grade Football team, coaching U14 cricket, sitting on the cricket committee, Vice Captaining the A Grade cricket team, and assisting with mentoring and coaching the U12 cricket team.
No nominations were received in the Youth Recognition Award categories of Achievement through the Arts; Inspiration by Innovation and Environment and Sustainability
See further event information regarding Australia Day Celebrations Across Wattle Range