Australia Day Celebrated in Allora

This year Allora Hosted the Australia Day Ceremony with a huge crowd attending to show their support for the event. Local organisation the Allora & District Historical Society inc. took home the Southern Downs Community Event of the Year INC. for their Bridal Extravaganza and High Tea held in October 2025. Pictured are Mayor Hamilton, Wendy Free, Fiona Kajewski, Jim Anderson, Kaye Mullins and David Littleproud.

Member for Maranoa and Leader of the National Party David Littleproud welcomes the enthusiastic crowd to the Australia Day celebrations and spoke about what it means to be a proud Australian. Throughout the days proceedings Mayor Melissa Hamilton and David Littleproud (ABOVE) presented the Southern Downs Australia Day awards and certificates to locals who were recognised for the contributions to our region.

Australia Day Ambassador was the Emeritus Professor Ken Donald AO who had a long career in medicine and medical education. Professor Donald AO was honoured as a Queensland Great in 2012 and awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his contribution to medicine, education and veterans’ health.

Young Citizen of the Year – James Henry for outstanding leadership, community service and supporting others including volunteer work with Warwick Community Van. James also contributed to the pharmacy student sector on all levels.

Southern Downs Citizen of the Year 2026 – Nerissa ‘Noo’ Shepherd Noo is committed to strengthening community wellbeing through supporting local schools, seniors, families, and vulnerable residents across Warwick. She 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.

The Citizenship Ceremony was held for 23 new Aussies who now call Australia home. Our Town Crier, Bob the Bellman of Renown helped with presenting the Certifcates.