Australia Day winners announced
Local wildlife carer Trish LeeHong has been named the 2025 Lockyer Valley Citizen of the Year.
Trish’s dedication and passion for the Lockyer Valley’s wildlife was recognised at Sunday’s Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony, held at the Gatton Shire Hall.
The Murphys Creek local has dedicated more than two decades to wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and education.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor Tanya Milligan said Trish has made an extensive contribution to the community through her Wildlife Rescue Education and Rehabilitation Centre.
“Trish’s work through the Centre has been transformative for both wildlife care and community education on conservation.
“Here, Trish provides a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals, with facilities that educate local groups, including school students, about the importance of wildlife conservation.
“While there are many things that stand out about Trish, the one attribute I really admire is her dedication.
“Not only does Trish volunteer for hours well beyond her regular duties, but she’s also collaborated with other wildlife organisations and government bodies to rescue wildlife in challenging conditions,” Mayor Milligan said.
Mayor Milligan described the Mayoral Award recipient, Katherine Raymont as a “true local”.
“Katherine has made a huge contribution in sport, academically and so too as a community champion.
“She is not only a tireless volunteer across numerous community groups but is also an exceptional role model for young girls and women.
“In her capacity as President of the Gatton Show Society, Katherine has an innate ability to make things happen and to meet challenges head on.
“She is the epitome of ‘the show must go on’ – she is selfless, humble, inspiring, driven, and she is worthy,” she said.
Mayor Milligan said all award winners were to be congratulated.
“It is such an honour to pay tribute to our Australia Day award winners, and this year’s recipients are nothing short of inspirational.
“They are tireless contributors to our region and give all of themselves to making the Lockyer Valley what it is today,” she said.
Winners received a framed certificate and handmade wooden pens, made by the Lockyer Woodcrafters in Forest Hill.
Mayor Milligan emphasised how critical nominations are to the longevity of the Australia Day Awards Ceremony.
“It was unfortunate to receive no nominations for the Young Citizen of the Year category this year.
“We really do have such outstanding young residents in our community who are doing great things.
“I certainly hope to see many nominations for next year’s event,” she said.
The full list of the 2025 Lockyer Valley Australia Day Award winners are:
Citizen of the Year: Trish LeeHong
Young Citizen of the Year: No entries
Senior Sportsperson of the Year: Justeen Kruger
Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Hayden D’Arcy
Event of the Year: Valley Fest
Community Group of the Year: Helidon State School P&C Association Events Inc
Mayoral Award: Katherine Raymont
Nominations for 2026 are already live. Nominate now at: https://lockyervalley.smartygrants.com.au/AusDay26
For more information, visit https://www.lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/our-region/tourism-and-events/australia-day-awards
