Tweed Seniors Festival

Sandy Taylor - recognised for her outstanding leadership of Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers. Managing a volunteer-run, 24/7 wildlife rescue service requires constant coordination, problem solving and hands on support. Sandy regularly steps in to cover gaps, ensuring injured native animals receive timely care. 

Max Rankin – neighbourhood champion Max Rankin was acknowledged for the care he shows to residents in his Banora Point street. Max checks in on neighbours, helps with lawn maintenance and offers practical support whenever needed. His quiet acts of kindness strengthen local connections and wellbeing. 

John Haywood - recognised for decades of commitment to the Tweed sailing community. From coaching juniors to supporting people with disabilities through Sail Ability, John has helped many experience confidence, connection and the joy of sailing. 

Leoni Warren – recognised for her role in establishing and supporting the FABS Walking Group since 2011. She helps plan walks, assists with group activities and steps in across programs including Book Club and Gentle Exercise. Her energy and reliability make her a valued FABS volunteer. 

Marilyn Scott – recognised for more than 15 years of service supporting people experiencing homelessness. Her compassion and steady encouragement have improved the lives of many vulnerable community members. 

Marty Sullivan - recognised for his volunteering with Friends of the Tweed Regional Gallery Committee for 15 years. Marty’s generosity contributes to the welcoming Gallery environment that visitors enjoy. Marty has volunteered more than 7,000 hours raised approximately $12,000 per year in raffle ticket sales for the Friends of the Tweed Regional Gallery.   

Michelle Bradley – recognised for her role supporting many community organisations.  Michelle's the Red Cross Emergency Service Team Leader for Murwillumbah & Villages and spent the week at the Evacuation Centre in Murwillumbah during Cyclone Alfred. She’s Treasurer for the Murwillumbah Evening Branch of the CWA, Community representative on the Murwillumbah Hospital Community Advisory Group and a door knocker for the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, among many other things. 

Mary Bale – recognised for unwavering dedication to an active lifestyle, her vibrant spirit, and her inspirational presence within the community, particularly at the Pottsville Tennis Club.

Maria Bashford – recognised for her volunteering with Tweed Palliative Support, and Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS) and her dedication to her community and creative pursuits, particularly her talent as a violist.

Ross Johnson – recognised for his long-standing service to the Anglican Parish of Murwillumbah, his contributions at Murwillumbah East Primary School, and his volunteer work providing music therapy at Life Bridge in Kingscliff.

Jennie Leathley – recognised for her reliable and generous volunteerism, her contributions to the Community Transport Company and her unwavering willingness to help.

Yvonne Malone – recognised for her work across various committees, at the Tweed Heads Legacy Laurel Club, Tweed Heads War Widow Association the Fun Activities at Banora Seniors (FABS).

Greg Adams – recognised as having touched countless lives. Greg has brought joy as Santa Claus, shaped minds at Condong School P&C, and has been part of the Tweed Valley Murwillumbah National Servicemen’s Association Subbranch for over 25 years.

Colin Smith – recognised for volunteering, particularly with the RFS

Ian Simpson – recognised for his volunteering with wildlife and for organising social events at his local bowls club

John Rawson – recognised for volunteering with the Australian Red Cross and in local aged care facilities

Joseph Kerr – recognised for volunteering with the Banora Point Community Centre helping other seniors with technology

Julie Stephens  – recognised for her passion and support of Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS) at Banora Point Community Centre

Liza Macmillan – recognised for her volunteer work with Cavalier Rescue and other community activities and events

Marlene Salkeld – recognised for her promotion of inclusion in the local community and her work with her Blind and Vision Impaired Support Group

Mary Grant – recognised for her decades of work with Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers, particularly helping local native birds

Sonia Trichter – recognised for her work with Friends of the Pound which she is currently president of.

Winners of the 2024 Local Achievement Awards.  (left to right) Colin Smith, Ian Simpson, Marlene Salkeld (Alan – Marlene’s Carer/Husband), Vickie collecting on behalf of Julie Stephens, Sonia Trichter, Mary Grant

• Brenda Blunden – recognised for volunteering, particularly with Fingal Head Coast Care
• Veronese Burgess – recognised for tireless work with local elders and community
• Julie Cummings – recognised for service to Cabarita Beach Surf Life Saving Club
• Carol Edwards – recognised for volunteering and fundraising efforts for local charities including Wedgetail Retreat and Murwillumbah Flood Relief
• Jeannette Horne – recognised for volunteering to run weekly trivia nights at South Tweed Sports Club
• Judy and Mark Eglington – recognised for almost 65 years voluntary service as members of the NSW Rural Fire Service
• Margaret Hulbert – recognised for service to Crabbes Creek Community Hall and local community
• Denis Kinzett – recognised for service to Crabbes Creek Community Hall
• Louise Muir – recognised for creation of a much-loved local garden in Banora Point
• Alan Rogers – recognised for years volunteering at Murwillumbah Hospital coffee shop and Murwillumbah Theatre Company
• Alan Vincent - recognised for service to Crabbes Creek Community Hall.

Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry and Tweed MP Geoff Provest with winners of the 2023 Local Achievement Awards who were acknowledged for their incredible contribution to the community.

• Glenda Ashby – service to Marine Rescue Point Danger
• Carole Cohan – service to Meals on Wheels, Tweed VIEW Club and Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS)
• Merilyn Gilmore – service to numerous Tweed charities over more than 30 years
• Ruth Philip – service to South Tweed Over 50s group
• Irene Rainey – service to Tweed Valley Justice Association and work as a JP
• Annie Simonds – service to Friends of the Gallery and Friends of the Pound
• Alan Young – service to Twin Towns Radio Yacht Club
• Sue Breckenridge – service to Murwillumbah Farmers Market and small farmers