BOWRAVILLE local Warren Fuller was among five people to receive one of our valley’s very first Australia Day Awards in 1983, taking out the junior sports award.
Nambucca Valley Council has been unearthing the first stories of our community’s top citizens, ahead of the Nambucca Valley Community Awards being held on 25 January 2026.
Nominations in 13 award categories are currently open to applications until next Friday 28 November.
Mr Fuller, now 61, said it was an honour to receive one of the first ever Australia Day Awards way back on 3 February 1983.
“I remember receiving the award from the Shire President at the time, Reg Phillips, which felt truly special,” he said.
“I was 22 at the time, so I can’t remember who the other award recipients were.
“I used to play rugby league and cricket.
“Back then there were four grades of cricket teams in Bowraville alone; the game was so popular.
“I encourage people to nominate our local sport talent and volunteers for awards in 2026 – it’s good to get involved and take the chance to congratulate our peers.”
Residents can nominate eligible persons in the following categories:
– Citizen of the Year Award
– Senior Citizen of the Year Award
– Young Citizen of the Year Award
– Indigenous Citizen of the Year
– Young Indigenous Citizen of the Year
– Services to the Community Award
– Environmental Award
– Good Neighbour Award
– Cultural Achievement Award
– Sports Achievement Awards: Junior Sports Person, Senior Sports Person, Junior Sports Team and Senior Sports Team.
Nambucca Valley Mayor Gary Lee, who is also a member of the National Celebration Day Committee, said next year’s event will be held at the Macksville Ex-Services Club.
“We’re planning a great event for Sunday 25 January next year,” he said.
“Please take a moment to think of a community member who gives community service, helps preserve our local environment or who, like Warren, is excellent on the playing field, and nominate them by 28 November.”
Nomination forms are available from the Macksville or Nambucca Heads Libraries, Council’s Administration Centre or on its website.
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