26 January 2026
Southern Downs Regional Council is proud to announce the 2026 Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Award recipients, with Warwick’s Nerissa ‘Noo’ Shepherd taking out the top honours for her outstanding commitment to strengthening community wellbeing.
James Henry was named as the Southern Downs Young Citizen of the Year, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and volunteer work across the region.
Alongside the six award recipients, Council also warmly welcomed 23 new Australian citizens at the official Australia Day citizenship ceremony in Allora.
The new citizens are from Philippines, India, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Taiwan, Brazil, Spain, United States and El Salvador.
This year’s event brought the community together to reflect on our shared story, respect the diversity of the people who shape our region, and celebrate the individuals who go above and beyond to make the Southern Downs a vibrant and connected community.
The 2026 Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Award recipients are:
- Citizen of the Year Award: Nerissa Shepherd
- Highly Commended Citizen of the Year Certificate: Michelle Feenan
- Young Citizen of the Year Award: James Henry
- Sportsperson or Sports Administrator of the Year Award: Gregory Ryan
- Cultural Citizen of the Year Award: Maria De Vries
- Community Event of the Year Award: Bridal Extravaganza & High Tea organised by the Allora and District Historical Society Inc.
Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton said this year’s award recipients exemplify the spirit of generosity, leadership and community pride that defines the region.
“What makes the Southern Downs remarkable isn’t just our picturesque landscapes, award winning wines and iconic events — it’s also our people,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“Australia Day is our opportunity to recognise the volunteers who strengthen our community simply by showing up for others, and to also welcome new citizens who chose to call the Southern Downs home.
“Today’s ceremony is a reminder that our community is always growing, always learning and always becoming stronger.
“Congratulations to our award winners, to all those who received a nomination and our new citizens. Every person recognised here today helps shape the future of the Southern Downs.”
Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Nerissa ‘Noo’ Shepherd has driven programs such as school breakfast and lunch support, senior wellness activities, intergenerational partnerships and large-scale community events that foster connection and inclusion.
A passionate advocate shaped by her own lived experience, Ms Shepherd continues to champion initiatives that ensure no one in the community is left behind.
“Community isn’t just something I support – it’s at the heart of everything I do,” Ms Shepherd said.
“I grew up with very little, and that shaped a lifelong passion for giving back and improving the lives of those around me,” she said.
Portfolio Councillor for Inspired Communities Cr Morwenna Harslett said the Australia Day ceremony is a celebration of connection.
“When families, friends and newcomers gather side by side, you can feel the pride and warmth that make the Southern Downs such a special place to live,” Cr Harslett said.
“Today we celebrate the people who roll up their sleeves, lend a hand and quietly make life better for those around them. These are the stories worth sharing and celebrating.”
For all the latest Council news and information, download the ‘My SDRC’ App or visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au. Alternatively, call 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or email mail@sdrc.qld.gov.au.
Award Recipient Biographies
Southern Downs Citizen of the Year 2026 – Nerissa ‘Noo’ Shepherd
Nerissa Shepherd, or Noo as she prefers to be called, has been awarded the Southern Downs Citizen of the Year 2026 for her outstanding commitment to strengthening community wellbeing through initiatives that support local schools, seniors, families, and vulnerable residents across Warwick. Her leadership has driven programs such as school breakfast and lunch support, senior wellness activities, intergenerational partnerships, and large-scale community events that foster connection and inclusion. A passionate advocate shaped by her own lived experience, she continues to champion initiatives that ensure no one in the community is left behind.
Southern Downs Young Citizen of the Year 2026 – James Henry
James Henry has been awarded the Southern Downs Young Citizen of the Year 2026 award, in recognition of his outstanding leadership, community service, and dedication to supporting others across the region. His achievements include volunteer work with the Warwick Community Van, leadership roles at Warwick State High School, service on the Southern Downs Youth Council, and significant contributions to the pharmacy student sector through state and national committees. Now studying a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) at the University of Queensland, he continues to give back through mentoring, ambassador roles, and his recent appointment as a Justice of the Peace (Qualified).
Southern Downs Cultural Citizen of the Year 2026 – Maria De Vries
Maria De Vries has been awarded the 2026 Cultural Citizen of the Year Award in recognition of more than 30 years of cultural leadership, education, and advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Southern Downs. Her contributions include establishing and chairing the Granite Belt Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation, leading annual NAIDOC celebrations, delivering arts and cultural programs for local children and adults, and sharing her Gamilaroi identity through widely recognised art practice. Maria’s work has fostered greater understanding, strengthened community relationships, and created safe, inclusive spaces where First Nations people feel seen, valued, and connected.
Community Event of the Year 2026 - Bridal Extravaganza & High Tea, presented by the Allora and District Historical Society
The Allora and District Historical Society has been awarded the Southern Downs Community Event of the Year award for their 2025 Bridal Extravaganza & High Tea held on 11 October – a vibrant celebration that brought residents and visitors together to honour more than a century of local bridal fashion and community history. Delivered entirely by dedicated volunteers, the event not only created a joyful shared experience but also raised significant funds toward relocating and unifying Allora’s historic Court House and Nevilton School buildings. This initiative reflects the Society’s long-standing commitment to preserving local heritage, fostering community pride, and supporting tourism in the region.
Sportsperson or Sports Administrator of the Year 2026 - Gregory Ryan
Gregory Ryan has been honoured as the 2026 Sportsperson or Sports Administrator of the Year for his extraordinary three decades of service to the Warwick Gymnastic Club and the wider community. A long time senior coach, mentor, and volunteer, Greg has been instrumental in growing the club from 70 to over 200 members per term, expanding programs for children, adults, and seniors, and ensuring high quality coaching and facilities for local athletes. His dedication to the sport—and to the wellbeing of local families—has created opportunities, strengthened community connections, and brought significant economic and social benefits to the region through events, competitions, and partnerships.
In recognition for being Highly Commended in the Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Awards 2026 – Michelle Feenan
Michelle Feenan has been awarded a Highly Commended certificate for the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards, for her outstanding leadership in securing the future of the Queensland College of Wine Tourism and her extensive contributions to the Granite Belt community. As President of the Stanthorpe & Granite Belt Chamber of Commerce, Michelle united community groups, industry leaders, government representatives, and local organisations to deliver a successful bid that kept the facility open and revitalised it with a renewed purpose. Her broader influence spans more than 30 years of community development work, ongoing support for local tourism operators, and strategic contributions to economic and regional planning across Queensland.
Recognised for receiving a nomination in the Southern Downs Citizen of the Year Awards 2026:
- Dr Leith Geisel
- Rodney Kelly
- Robert Reid
- Andrew Freebody
- Barbara Bowyer
- Carolyn Vardy
- Jennifer Rauchle
- Neil Burtenshaw
- Sarah Puglisi
- Kelvin Johnston
Last edited date 26 Jan 2026