THE spirit of the Scenic Rim shone at the 2025 Scenic Rim Australia Day Awards, with local residents who go above and beyond every day recognised for their efforts.
Speaking before the award ceremony, 2024 Citizen of the Year, Lizz Hills said Australia Day Award recipients and nominees embody the values of commitment, connection and care.
“They have chosen to show up for their community, to protect our environment, to uplift others,” she said.
“Through their actions they remind us that each of us has the power to make a difference.”
Citizen of the Year (31-65 years) went to Janine Rockliff, who was Chairperson of the Canungra & District Community Financial Group for 11 years.
Accepting the award, Janine encouraged others to volunteer for their communities.
“We wouldn’t be standing here without the support of communities and the countless hours that other volunteers give,” she said.
“If you are considering giving an hour or 20, please do it. It is amazing what can be achieved when everyone pulls together.”
Janine’s involvement with the establishment of the bank was instrumental in returning banking services to Canungra after a 30 year hiatus and finding a banking model that has returned over $300,000 to the community in the form of grants, donations and sponsorships.
She was part of the driving force to create Community Cancer Care, which coordinates the annual ‘Turning Canungra Pink’ fundraising program and Care Assist, a dedicated organisation which directs funds to assist local people being treated for cancer. Janine has contributed countless volunteer hours to these causes and is a motivational influence who has a proven ability to inspire others.
Janine is also active in the Canungra Rural Fire Service (CRFB), the Wonglepong CWA, the Canungra Show and the Canungra Rodeo.
Beaudesert resident, Typhoon le Garde was awarded Citizen of the Year (16-30 years).
The 16-year-old is a musician, competitive athlete and community volunteer involved with numerous organisations.
The Mayor’s Award went to Marijke Freeman who manages the Beaudesert Caravan and Tourist Park and coordinates a range of onsite events and has introduced a recycling program within the park creating an environmental approach to fundraising for residents in need.
