Lockyer Valley Australia Day Ambassador announced

The 2016 Lockyer Valley Australia Day Ambassador is no stranger to hardship and adversity and is a perfect example of how anything can be achieved with the right attitude, determination and good old-fashioned hard work.

Born into absolute poverty in rural China, the story of Li Cunxin and his journey to becoming one of the world's most-acclaimed dancers has been made in to an international best seller and award-winning movie, Mao's Last Dancer.

Lockyer Valley Mayor, Steve Jones, said it was an honour to have Li Cunxin as the Lockyer Valley Australia Day Ambassador.

To be able to share the journey of the Lockyer Valley with someone who has overcome what could only be described as insurmountable odds is an absolute honour, Mayor Jones said.

Born in rural China, he also has a strong connection to the land and understands the hardship faced by our primary producers.

I encourage everyone to come along to the Australia Day celebrations next week at the Lockyer Valley Cultural Centre and meet Li Cunxin and help us celebrate those people who strive to make our community a better place to live.

Mr Li said he was delighted to be an Australia Day Ambassador for 2016 and was humbled by his ongoing involvement with the initiative.

It was such a wonderful surprise to be honoured as the Queensland Australian of the Year in 2014 and I'm so pleased to be able to continue my connection with the Australia Day honours that acknowledge the achievements of every day Australians, Mr Cunxin said.

I congratulate all those who have been nominated in the awards and wish the finalists all the very best, not just in these awards but also in all their future endeavours.