Community spirit celebrated through Moree Plains Australia Day awards

Moree Plains Shire Council has celebrated dedication to the community through the presentation of Australia Day awards at Jellicoe Park.

The shire’s top honour, Citizen of the Year, went to Todd Mitchell who was described as a pillar of the community.

Todd was unable to attend the shire festivities.

At last week’s award ceremony, Todd was described as the backbone of the Moree Boars Rugby League Club.

“For many, many years, Todd has served as president of the club, guiding it through periods of significant challenge and remarkable success. His leadership has been instrumental in transforming the club from its lowest troughs to its greatest highs, including securing the past two Group 4 premierships, an achievement that reflects not only sporting excellence, but the strong culture Todd has helped build,” council’s awards information read.

“Todd’s impact extends far beyond the boundary lines of the football field. He is the founder and driving force behind the Western Knock-Out Challenge, now recognised as one of the largest and most significant cultural and sporting events in the region. This one-day tournament attracts up to 4000 spectators to Moree, delivering an economic boost of thousands of dollars to local businesses and showcasing elite rugby league talent from across New South Wales. Under Todd’s vision and tireless organisation, the event has grown to include almost 1,000 players, making it a premier destination on the rugby league calendar.

“What truly sets Todd apart is his unwavering commitment to community. He is a constant supporter of other organisations across Moree and the wider shire, regularly providing sponsorship, assistance, and leadership to community initiatives well beyond his own club. Todd gives his time, energy, and resources selflessly, always working to strengthen opportunities for others and to see Moree thrive.

“Todd’s dedication, resilience, and passion for both sport and community have left a lasting legacy. His contribution has not only shaped the success of the Moree Boars Rugby League Club but has enriched the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the entire region. He is a thoroughly deserving recipient of this award.”

Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Corey Scriven who makes a positive impact everywhere he goes.

“Alongside his full-time role as a mechanic, Corey also works with the NRMA, demonstrating an exceptional work ethic and commitment to helping others. Balancing two demanding roles is no easy task, yet Corey approaches both with dedication, professionalism, and pride in his work,” the award information read.

“What truly sets Corey apart is the way he connects with people. Everyone who meets him is greeted with positivity, approachability, and a genuine sense of humour. A conversation with Corey is always accompanied by a laugh and a good chat, and that ability to lift spirits and build rapport makes a lasting impression on colleagues, customers, and community members alike.

“Corey completed his trade in 2023, a significant achievement that reflects his determination and drive. Since then, he has continued to give his all, not only in his professional life but also through his ongoing commitment to the community. Wherever he can lend a hand, Corey steps up, always willing to contribute his time and skills for the benefit of others.”

Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Michael McNamara, a long-time and highly valued member of the Moree and District Historical Society. His contribution to preserving the history of the region was described as both extraordinary and inspiring.

“Much of Michael’s work happens quietly behind the scenes, where he dedicates countless hours to collecting, researching, and carefully recording the stories that shape Moree’s past. This work is time consuming and all embracing, yet Michael undertakes it with unwavering passion and a deep love for his hometown,” the award information read.

“His dedication to the Moree Plains Museum is nothing short of remarkable. While the museum is supported by a team of volunteers, Michael leads the research department in his own unassuming and humble way, guiding and supporting others while shouldering a significant workload himself. His knowledge, attention to detail, and commitment ensure that Moree’s history is preserved accurately and respectfully for future generations.

“What makes Michael’s contribution even more significant is that he gives hundreds of volunteer hours each year while living with a severe disability that limits his mobility. Despite these challenges, his determination never wavers. Michael’s resilience, quiet leadership, and selfless service embody the true spirit of volunteering.

“His dedication, perseverance, and love for local history makes him a truly deserving recipient of Volunteer of the Year.”

Community Event of the Year was awarded to The Sound of Music.

The production of The Sound of Music was said to be one of the most outstanding events ever staged in Moree. Every element, from the props and costumes to the music and performances, was delivered to an exceptional standard. The use of both the church and the hall was inspired and perfectly suited to the production.

“An enormous amount of effort went into this event, with rehearsals beginning at the end of 2024. The children and soloists were magnificent, and the production uncovered a wealth of new local talent. Long after the final performance, it is still being talked about across the community,” the award information read.

“Under the outstanding direction and performance of Stevie Drenkhahn, ‘The Sound of Music’ brought people together and showcased the very best of Moree’s creative spirit. It is a worthy recipient of Event of the Year.”

Community/Volunteer Group of the Year was presented to Moree Parkrun.

“Moree Parkrun is an example of what a dedicated volunteer group can achieve for its community. Participation continues to grow steadily, with an average of 50 runners and walkers attending each week and a record attendance of 97 participants in January 2026. This growth reflects both the inclusive nature of the event and the consistency with which it is delivered,” the award information read.

“A small but committed group of regular volunteers ensures the event runs smoothly every Saturday morning at 7am. Rain, heat or early starts, the volunteers reliably give their time to set up, keep time, scan barcodes and welcome participants, creating a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

“Visitors attend almost every week and frequently comment on the beautiful course and the exceptionally friendly, welcoming volunteers. Moree Parkrun is not just a weekly event, but a community connection point made possible by an outstanding volunteer team truly deserving of recognition as Volunteer Group of the Year.”

Sports Person of the Year was awarded to Gabrielle Suckling, a dedicated member of the Moree Police whose achievements extend well beyond her professional duties. Through hard work, discipline, and determination, she has earned selection in the Australian Police Rugby League team, an outstanding accomplishment and a reflection of her commitment to excellence.

“Gabrielle’s selection is a significant personal achievement and an inspiration to her colleagues and the wider community, demonstrating what can be achieved through dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. She is a role model both in uniform and on the sporting field, and a highly deserving winner,” the award information read.

Young Sports Person of the Year was awarded to Isabella Boland after she achieved exceptional success across multiple sports in 2025.

She won school, zone, regional, and state cross-country titles, claiming the state championship by a 23-second margin. In athletics, she was age champion at school and zone levels, won the 800m and 1500m at regionals, set a 1500m record, and competed strongly at state level as a nine-year-old.

Bella was recognised at the Northwest Sports Awards with a Blue Award and named Most Outstanding Primary Athlete across all sports, the first from the Moree region since 1996. She also won her age group at Run the Plains, received Best and Fairest in junior soccer, and represented Moree in junior rugby.

The Mayoral Award was presented to Ron Clissold who has been involved in sport throughout his entire adult life, from cycle racing on the old velodrome to road racing and later athletics, including marathon running. For many years, Ron was a familiar and inspiring sight, running the streets of Moree and quietly demonstrating his lifelong commitment to fitness and perseverance.

“Ron was instrumental in helping to establish and organise the weekly parkrun, an initiative that continues to benefit the community every Saturday. He still participates regularly, completing the five-kilometre course each week and leading by example,” the award information read.

“Beyond his own achievements, Ron continues to give back by training junior athletes. His guidance and training programs have helped develop numerous talented young athletes, many of whom have gone on to achieve great success.

“A quiet achiever, Ron is the epitome of a champion. His dedication, humility, and passion for sport make him a wonderful ambassador for Moree and thoroughly deserving of the Mayoral Award for 2026.”

Cr Wayne Tighe, acting mayor of Moree Plains Shire Council, presented awards and announced the winners across the other six categories.

Cr Tighe congratulated all the deserving winners, as well as those who were nominated.

“These awards are recognition of the selflessness, generosity and community spirit that help make our community such a unique and special place,” Cr Tighe said.

“Congratulations to all who were nominated, I don’t envy the panel who had to narrow down the many deserving nominees and thank you to anyone who took the time to participate in nominating.

“I would also like to thank the Moree Lions Club for providing attendees with a free barbecue breakfast at today’s event and to our Australia Day ambassador, Bruno Efoti.”

Acting mayor Cr Wayne Tighe congratulates Mayoral Award winner Ron Clissold.

Moree Plains Shire Council’s 2026 Australia Day ambassador Bruno Efoti.