Narrandera Shire Council is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Australia Day Awards, recognising the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations that have made a lasting impact on our community. These awards celebrate the spirit of giving, leadership, and service across our region. 

Narrandera Shire Council Mayor, Cr Neville Kschenka expressed his pride in the 2025 award winners, saying, "It's an honour to recognise these outstanding individuals and groups. Their dedication to supporting our community, whether through raising awareness, helping our youth, or serving others, is inspiring. We are proud to have such passionate people making a real difference in the Narrandera Shire."

Disability Advocate of the Year

Winner: Bruce Bandy

Bruce Bandy, nominated by the Barellan Working Clydesdale Association, has been a tireless advocate for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) awareness and fundraising. Bruce's dedication began in 2011 with the Barellan MND Drive, a fundraising initiative that has raised approximately $150,000 for MND research and awareness. Bruce organises Tribute to the Teams drive, bringing together horse, bullock, and camel teams for a week-long journey that culminated in an MND Auction. In 2024 alone, the auction raised over $14,000 contributing  Bruce's invaluable work for this important cause. 

Organisation of the Year

Winner: Narrandera Fusion Team

The Narrandera Fusion Team has been serving youth and the community for over 30 years. This dedicated team of volunteers operates an Op Shop, a Food Shop for struggling families, and the Riverina Sip and Go coffee ventures, all aimed at supporting young people and local families. Fusion also provides skill-building opportunities, community event support, and valuable mentorship, making a significant difference in the lives of many. 

Senior Citizen of the Year

Winner: John Foster

John Foster's quiet, steadfast commitment to the Narrandera community makes him a deserving recipient of Senior Citizen of the Year. John volunteers his time behind the scenes, ensuing local events run smoothly. Whether arranging infrastructure for events like the Spring Fair or supporting local businesses, John's contributions are invaluable, and his professionalism and dedication are highly regarded. 

Young Citizen of the Year

Winners: Madeline Fraser and Tahlia Gilbert

This year's Young Citizen of the Year award recognises two exceptional young women:

Madeline Fraser has demonstrated outstanding leadership at Narrandera High School and in the community. As School Captain, she led various initiatives, participated in ANZAC Day ceremonies, and volunteered at numerous local events. Madeline received the ADF Long Tan Leadership Award and helped raise over $14,000 for Can Assist. She is a role model for her peers and a source of inspiration in her community. 

Tahlia Gilbert, a proud Wiradjuri and Yorta Yorta woman, is a standout in community service, sports, and academics. As the first female Wiradjuri School Captain, Tahlia has excelled in leadership roles, including ANZAC and NAIDOC ceremonies. She received the Nanga Mai Award for Aboriginal Education and has volunteered in multiple capacities, including teaching Indigenous dance and instructing swimming. Tahlia's commitment to service and leadership has made her a remarkable role model. 

Citizen of the Year

Winner: Kevin Morris

Kevin Morris has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the President of the Barellan Show Society and as a long-serving councillor. Kevin played a key role in organising community events and advocating for the needs of Barellan and surrounding rural areas. His commitment to supporting local organisations, such as assisting the Barellan CWA with the design of new public toilets, exemplifies his ongoing dedication to the community. Kevin's quiet yet impactful contributions have made a lasting difference in the lives of many.